Distributing Mac software is increasing my cortisol levels (blog.kronis.dev)

Article summary

The author is frustrated with the process of distributing Mac software due to Apple's Gatekeeper feature, which requires developers to pay for a certificate to avoid quarantine warnings. The author finds the process of enrolling in the Apple Developer Program and verifying their identity to be cumbersome and expensive. The cost of the program is a significant burden for small developers, and the author argues that it stifles the release of free apps. The author also compares the experience to other digital services that offer easier and more affordable verification processes.

Main themes

• Mac software distribution
• Gatekeeper feature
• Developer program costs
• Verification processes
• Code signing
• Security vs convenience

What commenters say

• The Gatekeeper feature is necessary to protect users from malware, but it can be frustrating for developers and users who want to run unsigned software.
• The cost of the Apple Developer Program is a significant burden for small developers and can stifle the release of free apps.
• Users should be given the option to easily run unsigned software without having to disable security features or go through cumbersome settings.
• The current system is not user-friendly and can lead to users reflexively clicking through warnings without understanding the risks.
• The verification process for code signing is overly complicated and expensive, and there are not enough affordable alternatives.
• The Gatekeeper feature is not foolproof and can be bypassed by determined users, so it may not be effective in preventing malware.
• The trade-off between security and convenience is a complex issue, and different users have different priorities and needs.
• The current system may be more geared towards forcing developers to pay for certificates rather than prioritizing user safety.