Yes I totally agree.
*checks* mine is working just fine thanks.
You are best off asking this question on the mailing list/irc/whatever of the community you want to contribute to. They'll know what needs fixing, and nurse you through submitting a few patches to them.
Yes. I suspect though if ever google started to abuse the power then an alternative space could gain prominence. This probably acts as a motivation to keep google honest.
I may be wrong but I think some networks replace the google controlled market by default with their own offering?
Of course with Android you always have the option of getting software from sources other than the main sanctioned market. Unlike a certain other smartphone OS I could mention.
"May your future be limited only by your dreams." -- Christa McAuliffe