I’m not as interested in either Google App Engine or the controversy that resulted. I’m more curious on what data Google collects from people who use it. Google and the European Union are currently in a fight over data retention. It’s no real surprise to me that Google collects every last piece of information that it can find on users and data mines it for advertising benefit. I really think that it’s an improper practice, but it’s sadly common in today’s world.

Anyway, the point I’m getting to is that since these apps are hosted on Google’s servers and whatnot, what stops Google from collecting data on every person that uses apps written for App Engine? I briefly looked at the terms of use and everything but not closely enough. I didn’t see anything that referenced Google’s data collection and retention policies towards App Engine applications. Perhaps they don’t collect data, but I strongly think that they do. Does anyone know anything more about this?