There’s a government app right now in the Saudi Arabian Google Play Store (and Apple App Store too) that’s been sparking controversy in different social media platforms, especially human rights groups. And yet, it appears that Google is not planning to do anything about it.
The app, called Absher, allows Saudi Arabian citizens to access various government services through their smartphones. It can be used to apply for jobs, register or renew driver’s licenses, update passport information, and even report electronic crimes. The app now has a million total downloads, thanks to the convenience it offers to citizens.
However, it also comes with one huge downside. The app can be used by men to track women and potentially disallow them from traveling. Absher allows men to list women as their dependents, whom they can then either allow or deny travel.
This is due to one important rule regarding Saudi Arabian women who have to travel: before they can leave the country, they must first get the permission of a male guardian, such as their father or their husband, if they’re married.
Unfortunately for 14 Congress members who signed the petition asking both Google’s and Apple’s CEOs to take a second look at the app, Apple has not yet given an answer while Google has said that the app cannot be removed as it is not in violation of the company’s terms of service.
