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Your phone is an entire computer (medhir.com)

367 points by medhir · 171 days ago · 313 comments on HN

Article summary

The article argues that smartphones, particularly iPhones, are capable of running a complete desktop operating system, but are artificially restricted by Apple to maintain control and profits. The author points out that the new MacBook Neo, which runs on the same chip as the iPhone, highlights the arbitrary distinction between the two devices. The author advocates for the right to choose the software loaded on devices, including the ability to run macOS on an iPhone. This would allow users to repurpose their iPhones as general-purpose computers.

Main themes

  • Smartphone capabilities
  • Apple's restrictions
  • Right to repair
  • Device convergence
  • Corporate control
  • User freedom

What commenters say

  • Allowing macOS on iPhone would increase the utility of the device and potentially disrupt the laptop and desktop market.
  • Apple's restrictions on iPhone are driven by a desire to maintain control and profits, rather than concerns for user safety.
  • The distinction between smartphones and computers is arbitrary and based on form factor rather than capability.
  • Enabling macOS on iPhone would not necessarily lead to increased sales for Apple, as it could cannibalize Mac sales and may not be a desirable feature for most users.
  • The lack of demand for using phones as computers is due to the lack of good implementations, rather than a lack of interest.
  • Apple's business model is based on selling separate devices for different use cases, and allowing macOS on iPhone would undermine this model.
  • The ability to run macOS on iPhone would require significant changes to the device's design and user experience, which could be challenging for Apple to implement.
  • The cloud and online services have reduced the need for local computing power, making the idea of using a phone as a computer less relevant.