HACKER Q&A
📣 behnamoh

Jailbreaking iPhone getting ever harder. Should EU sue Apple?


I think when you buy a device, you own it and should be able to do whatever you want with it (unless it's harming others). I've been a long time iPhone/iPad user and used to jailbreak my iDevices, but recent versions of Apple chips make it almost impossible to jailbreak the device. I understand the risks, but who is Apple to decide what I can and cannot do with my device after I purchase it at their premium prices no less?

I think the EU has focused on the wrong problems, namely, USB C. Whereas a truly open device must in fact provide a jailbreak switch deep in the settings app where users can freely toggle should they want less restricted access.

  👤 KMnO4 Accepted Answer ✓
> I understand the risks, but who is Apple to decide what I can and cannot do with my device after I purchase it at their premium prices no less?

You’re welcome to jailbreak it. Go ahead. Apple doesn’t care.

What they care about is patching security vulnerabilities that are exploited both for jail breaking but also to bypass the secure elements of the phone.

👤 mtmail
> I think the EU has focused on the wrong problems, namely, USB C

Having manufacturers agree on a standard charging port wasn't about Apple. Shavers, smartwatches, LED lights, everything that usually comes with their own charger has to be compatible to the new standard. My bicycle light has USC-C now and can charge my mobile phone. Apple is just one of thousands of manufacturers and tech news gave the too much attention IMHO.

👤 brucethemoose2
Jailbreaking does not "count" as sideloading toleration. Its always relied on elaborate security exploits that are basically happy accidents.

What you are asking for is full sideloading or at least alternative app stores.

👤 compressedgas
More likely if they did Apple would just stop selling iPhone in the EU. So what do you want a device you can own or the option to own a device you can't?
👤 mr90210
What does the terms of service say?
👤 moremetadata
> I think when you buy a device, you own it and should be able to do whatever you want with it (unless it's harming others)

Would that include cars and other devices which need insurance, to reduce the risk of harm?

Likewise whilst you could drive into a group of people and harm them, I guess you are unable to quantify the harm of your words or other people's words when communicating using devices.

You see many vulnerable people getting exploited into a variety of activities like religious terrorism, inceldom or working for the state. All of these claim to be for higher purposes, but the harm it causes is not always recognised.

Maybe if Apple and others explained what can and cant be done with their products it wouldn't be so much a case of Buyer Beware.