As a proud user of gypsy cabs since before the internet, I have found them to be superior to regulated taxis. So, yes! Plus, I get the thrill of breaking the law!
E.g., I'm at LaGuardia, need a ride to the WTC. There's a Jamaican limo driver just dropped somebody off. I tell him where I want to go, we agree on the price, and he takes me there in his limo. I get a superior ride, he gets compensated for the return trip, and we both get the satisfaction of defeating the will of the Sheeple of New Yawk as expressed through their corruptly elected representatives! Medallion schmedallion!
As for "regulating" taxi services, an app can address that through a customer review process. Let drivers set their prices. Drivers with high reputation can set higher prices.
Ok, I can agree with you on most things.