they have the advantage that they can shape the API to their needs. yes, you can argue that google apps have the same limitations as other apps. but google defines the limitations. just because google doesn't need a feature, it doesn't mean that no one else needs or should have that feature. so google is able to define features that fit their business model, and they prevent anyone else from offering a different feature set. they own the platform and compete in it. that in itself is an advantage. to not have an advantage either google must not compete with apps on the platform and or they should relinquish their ownership of the platform.

I will go with yes for $500.

From an Pixel 5a perspective. The camera application provided by Google will only open Google's gallery application and will not open the one the end user sets as system default. User must exit the camera application and manually open the gallery application they really want to use.

One of the reasons I am looking forward for a company that provides a quality Linux base phone. That is the only way to get the system configuration and application select the end user really wants. Google and Apple are for profit prison Wardens with their mobile OSes.

PS. Has anyone ever studied the economic, resource, and power waste of system bloat-ware?

I'd be surprised if they have to go through the same review process as everyone else. And even if they do, the reviewers are likely to give them a pass because it's Google.

According to the article, and according to many of the comments here, yes they do.