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Eu to make Apple open up operating system to rival tech (link added forgot to include it this morning)
(apnews.com)
An erra is to come to an end as the Eu says enough is enough and introduces new rules and hefty fines.
What does it mean to "open up" an operating system in this context? Do they mean something like the possibility to intall other OSes on their devices, or that the app stores needs to be more open? I'm guessing it does not mean they have to start open source:ing parts of the OS... or?
I would love if device makers were forced to open up their hardware to other OSs. Unlockable bootloaders for all as well as allowing users to install their own signing keys so secure boot can remain enabled.
Granted, there would still be black box firmware required to use half the components inside, but that's another battle.
This should be a right of the consumer that purchased the hardware. Same goes for gaming consoles. You used to be able to officially install Linux on a PlayStation.
I'd be okay with it even if it were on a time delay.
Like if device manufacturers had to publish their software in order to no longer officially support the device that would be a welcome compromise and at least a step in the right direction right?
Yes I think we this in addition to be able to unlock the boot loader. This allows the community to continue to provide security updates after the company abandoned the product through planned obsolescence.