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They don't get to subtly mine value out of their users just because they released free stuff. That's nonsense. We're not obligated to be guinea pigs in their usability experiments.
If you don't want to give them your data, don't use their software. Nobody is forcing you to use their software and give them your data.
It's a simple deal. Either pay using money, or pay using your data. If you don't want to pay with either, you don't get to use their software.
I get to do all sorts of things. For example, I get to completely firewall their software off of my network. That "take it or leave it" nonsense simply doesn't work on my computer.
Data is not a valid currency by which payments are made. Period.
Correct. No obligation to download and use the free version.
You're acting like if them knowing what features you use amounts to Stazi looking over your private life.
There is absolutely no need for me to "prove" anything to anyone. No need whatsoever. It is my computer, and I have decided. It's as simple as that.
Why? Because I don't want it to happen. That's all there is to it. Couldn't care less what their motivations are. Couldn't care less how "justified" they are. I simply do not want data of any kind to be compiled and exfiltrated to anyone for any reason whatsoever, unless I explicitly command my computer to it.
You can either buy it or not use the free version if any of this is unacceptable to you.