100.00% this take. Google is redefining "malware" to fit their corporate narrative so ads-with-ads-with-tracking is labeled as fine wine. It simply cannot be malware because that truth would decimate their shareholders. Malware by any other definition remains software that disrupts the user's ability to operate the device:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malware

https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/malware

https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/ddos/glossary/malware/

https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/products/security/what-is-m...

https://www.britannica.com/technology/malware

https://www.fortinet.com/resources/cyberglossary/malware

https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/threats/what-is-ma...

https://www.mcafee.com/learn/malware/

https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/what-is/malware.html

https://www.t-mobile.com/home-internet/the-signal/internet-h...

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/malware

Both things might be true. Sideloaded apps are probably way more likely to be malicious, but also most installed malware/crapware is quite likely coming from Google Play.

Worst of all is that the ad that leads to that download is usually in Googles Youtube app

Which analysis, where is the data? Where is the independent peer review to conclude what you see is actually real?

I'm so tired of companies claiming stuff with "we did research, just trust me bro" and providing no source to be scrutinized.

My recent analysis found that Google is 90 times scummier than other companies.

My analysis consisted of pulling a completely baseless number out of my arse that fit my agenda.

"Confirm the accessibility permissions to get $7 SolitaireBux"