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2071 points K0nserv | 2 comments | | HN request time: 0.439s | 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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stale2002 ◴[] No.45088846[source]
> Locked-down, managed devices for vulnerable users who benefit from protection

Thats fine! Just make sure it is possible for someone to take the same device and remove the locked down protections.

Make it require a difficult/obvious factory reset to enable, if you are concerned about someone being "tricked" into turning off the lockdown.

If someone wants baby mode on, all power too them! Thats their choice. Just like it should be everyone else's choice to own the same hardware and turn it off.

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1. judge2020 ◴[] No.45088944[source]
> Make it require a difficult/obvious factory reset to enable, if you are concerned about someone being "tricked" into turning off the lockdown.

Is there also a way to make it obvious to the user that a device is running non-OEM software? For example, imagine someone intercepts a new device parcel, flashes spyware on it, then delivers it in similar/the same packaging unbeknownst to the end user. The same could be said for second-hand/used devices.

It's potentially possible the bootrom/uefi/etc bootup process shows some warning for x seconds on each boot that non-OEM software is loaded, but for that to happen you need to be locked out of being able to flash your own bootrom to the device.

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2. nik282000 ◴[] No.45089916[source]
Pixel phones do this. Flashing a non-oem rom causes it to show a very "your device is broken" looking screen every time you boot.