But then simply don't install or buy "Shockz" if that's your concern.

Apple might be doing the same thing, but you wouldn’t necessarily know it, since their ecosystem is a closed gate.

I have enough software on my phone that I was forced to install that I know this is argument rests on a false premise of agency.

That concept is entirely foreign to me, as an Android user. Closest I've come to being "forced" to install anything is when I need a boarding pass, and even then I'll often use a screenshot from my desktop. I can't think of any other mandatory apps on my phone right now.

You haven’t needed to install an app to manage a smart device? Or use a local public service? Or for work?

Out of curiosity, why quote Shokz and then spell it incorrectly, as well? I gather you're not a runner, so you have never heard of them, but I'm confused as to what you were trying to convey.

Damn, if only we had some form of technology that would let a user allow or reject access to system APIs. Sadly this is impossible and cannot be implemented.

This would not give any meaningful control or consent to the average user.