📱Conversations Ditches Google Play for F-Droid
Developer quits Google Play, turns to F-Droid
TL;DR
Conversations, a federated messaging app, has stopped distributing through Google Play, opting for F-Droid. Developer now relies on grants and funding, no longer tied to Play Store revenue.
Conversations, a federated messaging app, has officially left the Google Play Store, opting to distribute through F-Droid instead. This move comes after years of steady revenue growth and a growing reliance on grants and funding. The developer, who started using Conversations as their primary communication tool in 2014, now feels free from the 15% cut Google takes on app sales. With secure funding until 2029, the developer can focus on open-source contributions and community support, marking a significant shift in the app's business model.
Key Points
Conversations started development in January 2014, released publicly in March 2014.
Developer's income from Conversations has steadily increased since March 2014.
App's revenue comes from Play Store, grants, and funding opportunities, with secure funding until 2029.
Developer pays Google over 1000 Euro annually for Play Store services, now shifting to F-Droid.
F-Droid package is built reproducibly and signed with developer's personal key.
Why It Matters
If you're an open-source developer relying on app stores for income, Conversations' shift to F-Droid shows a viable alternative. Grants and funding can sustain projects without the need for app store revenue. This move also highlights the growing importance of open-source distribution channels like F-Droid.
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