Introduction

A significant conflict has emerged between Nextcloud, an open-source cloud storage provider, and Google, centering on Android's file access permissions and the broader implications for user privacy and app functionality.

Background

Nextcloud offers a self-hosted cloud storage solution, emphasizing user control and privacy. Its Android application enables users to synchronize and manage files between their devices and Nextcloud servers. A critical feature of this app is the ability to access and manage all files on a device, facilitating comprehensive backup and synchronization.

The Issue

In early 2025, Google revoked the "All Files Access" permission for the Nextcloud Android app distributed via the Google Play Store. This permission is essential for applications that require unrestricted access to a device's storage to function effectively. Without it, Nextcloud's app faced significant limitations:

  • Auto-Upload Restrictions: The app could only automatically upload photos and videos, excluding other file types.
  • Custom Folder Limitations: Users were restricted to uploading media files from custom folders.
  • Additional Permissions: A new location permission became necessary to upload photos with geolocation data.

These changes were documented in Nextcloud's GitHub repository, where developers and users discussed the challenges posed by Google's policy shift. (github.com)

Google's Rationale

Google's decision aligns with its ongoing efforts to enhance user privacy and security on the Android platform. By restricting the "All Files Access" permission, Google aims to minimize the risk of malicious apps accessing sensitive user data without consent. However, this policy has raised concerns about its impact on legitimate applications that require extensive file access to deliver their services.

Implications for Users

The revocation of the "All Files Access" permission has several consequences for Nextcloud users:

  • Reduced Functionality: Essential features like comprehensive auto-upload and file management are compromised.
  • User Confusion: Users may not understand why certain features no longer work as expected.
  • Privacy Concerns: The need for additional permissions, such as location access, may raise privacy issues among users.

Nextcloud's Response

In response to Google's policy change, Nextcloud has taken the following steps:

  • User Communication: Informing users about the changes and their implications through in-app notifications and community forums.
  • Alternative Distribution: Encouraging users to download the app from F-Droid, an alternative app store that does not impose the same restrictions as the Google Play Store. The F-Droid version retains the "All Files Access" permission, allowing full functionality. (github.com)

Technical Details

The "All Files Access" permission, introduced in Android 11, allows apps to manage files across a device's storage without restrictions. Google's policy requires apps to justify the necessity of this permission, and it is granted sparingly to minimize potential security risks. (github.com)

Broader Implications

This situation highlights a broader tension between platform security policies and the operational needs of third-party applications. While Google's intent to protect user data is commendable, the implementation of such policies can inadvertently hinder the functionality of legitimate apps, especially those that prioritize user privacy and data sovereignty.

Conclusion

The conflict between Nextcloud and Google underscores the challenges in balancing user privacy, security, and app functionality within the Android ecosystem. Users seeking to maintain full functionality of the Nextcloud app are advised to consider alternative distribution channels like F-Droid. This case serves as a critical example of the complexities involved in platform governance and the importance of transparent communication between platform providers and app developers.

Summary

The revocation of the "All Files Access" permission for Nextcloud's Android app by Google has led to reduced functionality and raised concerns about user privacy and app distribution. Nextcloud has responded by informing users and promoting alternative app distribution methods to maintain full functionality.

Meta Description

Explore the conflict between Nextcloud and Google over Android file access permissions, its impact on users, and the broader implications for app functionality and user privacy.

Tags

  • all files access
  • android permissions
  • app permissions
  • cloud backup
  • cloud storage
  • data privacy
  • european antitrust
  • file sharing
  • google security
  • mediastore api
  • mobile ecosystem
  • mobile privacy
  • nextcloud
  • open source
  • open source privacy
  • platform monopolies
  • platform privilege
  • storage access framework
  • tech competition
  • tech regulation