Google are evil

E.g."in that they are designed to nudge users to share more and think less."

What's the basis behind the claim "think less"? If I get weather at my current location or reminder for my appointment without any friction, how does that makes me "think less"? In fact it frees up my time for other tasks.

Consider the fact that Google already has for more than 10 years, a near real time feed of your interests (via Search) and information over longer time (via GMail)? How does Google Now or Assistant using the same information that has been present for so many years, makes you "think less" or makes it "evil"? How is making an explicit Google Search instead of having recommendation automatically delivered to you (which you can turn off or ignore) is somehow better?

The other part of article is pure rambling, how is Google to be blamed for what seems like a pure market equilibrium. If the author does not likes an Android tab, he can choose another option, get an iPad or a Windows tablet, or use a burner flip phones like they did in The Wire.

The real uncomfortable fact for people (especially those on HN) to admit is the tradeoff between security and privacy. There is a reason why cars have license plates, or that opening a bank account or getting a credit card without providing identification is impossible. The equilibrium between utility, security and privacy that exists in other industries similarly exists in Tech industry.

We have become the product and at the same time give them money to take our personal information and sell it to who ever wants it.

It's messed up....