Apple removes unofficial WikiLeaks app – I’m Happy I bought an Android phone

Yesterday I ordered a new phone, the Samsung Galaxy S that runs on Android. Why not the new iPhone?

What I dislike about the iPhone is its centralized software distribution system (the ‘App Store’) and the way that Apple uses it to control the information I have access to. Through the App Store, Apple governs what apps are installed on iPhones, iPods and iPads. This power can be used to stifle competition. An excellent example is Apple’s rejection of Google’s ‘Google Voice’ app. It can also be used to moralize.  Apple has rejected many apps that are objectionable. For instance, an app that allows you to download the Kama Sutra. Or an app that lets users jiggle breasts.

So far, we haven’t seen any politically inspired rejections or removals. However, today I read that Apple has removed an app from its store that gave access to WikiLeaks site content. Unless the app clearly violated Apple’s Terms of Service, Apple’s decision has to be politically inspired.

I am not a WikiLeaks-fan, but I do think that people should judge for themselves whether or not they would like to access WikiLeaks – the same goes for jiggling virtual breasts. Even if the information on WikiLeaks should be considered illegal, it is still not up to Apple to decide on the lawfulness of that information. We have judges to do that job for us.

Update

The New York Times has some news on why Apple rejected the WikiLeaks app:

Trudy Muller, an Apple spokeswoman, said the company had removed the app “because it violated our developer guidelines.” Ms. Muller added: “Apps must comply with all local laws and may not put an individual or group in harm’s way.”