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    We should have the ability to run any code we want on hardware we own

    (hugotunius.se)
    2071 points K0nserv | 11 comments | 31 Aug 25 21:46 UTC | HN request time: 0.639s | source | bottom
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    tzury ◴[01 Sep 25 01:47 UTC] No.45088695[source]▶
    We need both options to coexist:

    1. Open, hackable hardware for those who want full control and for driving innovation

    2. Locked-down, managed devices for vulnerable users who benefit from protection

    This concept of "I should run any code on hardware I own" is completely wrong as a universal principle. Yes, we absolutely should be able to run any code we want on open hardware we own - that option must exist. But we should not expect manufacturers of phones and tablets to allow anyone to run any code on every device, since this will cause harm to many users.

    There should be more open and hackable products available in the market. The DIY mindset at the junction of hardware and software is crucial for tech innovation - we wouldn't be where we are today without it. However, I also want regulations and restrictions on the phones I buy for my kids and grandparents. They need protection from themselves and from bad actors.

    The market should serve both groups: those who want to tinker and innovate, and those who need a safe, managed experience. The problem isn't that locked-down devices exist - it's that we don't have enough truly open alternatives for those who want them.

    replies(23): >>45088735 #>>45088761 #>>45088840 #>>45088846 #>>45088867 #>>45088917 #>>45088924 #>>45088947 #>>45089091 #>>45089098 #>>45089274 #>>45089445 #>>45089853 #>>45090037 #>>45090783 #>>45091788 #>>45091834 #>>45092235 #>>45092332 #>>45092365 #>>45092417 #>>45092508 #>>45094664 #
    1. paulryanrogers ◴[01 Sep 25 01:55 UTC] No.45088735[source]▶
    I'd argue that even the 'safe' devices should at least be open enough to delegate trust to someone besides the original manufacturer. Otherwise it just becomes ewaste once the manufacturer stops support. (Too often they ship vulnerable and outdated software then never fix it.)
    replies(1): >>45088758 #
    2. Almondsetat ◴[01 Sep 25 02:00 UTC] No.45088758[source]▶
    If the user cannot be trusted to maintain the hardware and software, then the only responsible thing is to rely on the manufacturer to do so. In those cases, if the support is dropped you buy the newest device.
    replies(4): >>45088839 #>>45088861 #>>45089403 #>>45092874 #
    3. mitthrowaway2 ◴[01 Sep 25 02:17 UTC] No.45088839[source]▶
    What if that is the newest device?
    replies(1): >>45089329 #
    4. nickthegreek ◴[01 Sep 25 02:22 UTC] No.45088861[source]▶
    Paul knows that. He is arguing for a different future. google is about to remove my ability to remotely control my thermostat. Not even local control. Imagine a world where they would have to choose between continued device support or unlocking… or maybe just building out the local control and cleaning their hands of it. Having corpos as the arbiter of a consumers buying schedule and creating unnecessary easter is pretty undesirable.
    replies(1): >>45088890 #
    5. chrisweekly ◴[01 Sep 25 02:28 UTC] No.45088890{3}[source]▶
    easter?
    replies(1): >>45088902 #
    6. anonym29 ◴[01 Sep 25 02:32 UTC] No.45088902{4}[source]▶
    I'm guessing autocorrect for e-waste / ewaste
    7. Almondsetat ◴[01 Sep 25 04:03 UTC] No.45089329{3}[source]▶
    What if the only hospice in town closes down and your grandma is there? What if Mozilla or Linux die out and the only browsers/OSs that remain are proprietary? You find alternatives or make do, like all aspects of life.

    You can't expect services and organizations to last forever, there is always some risk they'll collapse when you are around.

    replies(1): >>45089505 #
    8. pishpash ◴[01 Sep 25 04:18 UTC] No.45089403[source]▶
    Did they ask? Some users can be trusted. Is there even a certification program?
    replies(1): >>45090427 #
    9. mitthrowaway2 ◴[01 Sep 25 04:38 UTC] No.45089505{4}[source]▶
    But is it too much to ask to at least let me get my grandma back out of the hospice? Don't just lock all the doors and put up a sign saying "Thanks for your loyal business, it's been an amazing journey". And if I'm the one who owns the building and you were just staffing it, then I'd appreciate having the door keys back as well, please!
    10. ◴[01 Sep 25 07:38 UTC] No.45090427{3}[source]▶
    11. fsflover ◴[01 Sep 25 14:20 UTC] No.45092874[source]▶
    https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=45081344