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2071 points K0nserv | 1 comments | | HN request time: 0.305s | source
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tzury ◴[] 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.

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1. AnthonyMouse ◴[] No.45088924[source]
> 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.

The problems is that vendors use "locked down devices" as an excuse to limit competition.

Suppose you have a "locked down" device that can only install apps from official sources, but "official sources" means Apple, Google, Samsung or Amazon. Moreover, you can disable any of these if you want to (requiring a factory reset to re-enable), but Google or Apple can't unilaterally insist that you can't use Amazon, or for that matter F-Droid etc.

Let the owner of the device lock it down as much as they want. Do not let the vendor do this when the owner doesn't want it.