[sjg007]

Consumers bought the phone which can be be considered a general computing device.. so we should be free to run whatever software we want on it. That's the real argument.

[fooey]

This situation is a very large part of the reason I would never buy an iPhone.

The walled garden isn't a surprise, it's a feature.

[Keyframe]

I agree with that, but it’s then also a broader question that covers all computing devices. Should I be able to run free whatever software I want in my car, in any of its systems? How about medical devices or any of the gaming consoles? It’ll probably end up being an argument on what a general computing device is.

[chillacy]

I mean... yes? I think we should have the right to modify / tinker with things we buy, with the understanding that doing so voids any warranties or manufacturer liability.

[m-p-3]

I wish I could say yes to all of those, as long as the risks of unintended behavior and damage are clearly explained.

[heavyset_go]

> Should I be able to run free whatever software I want in my car, in any of its systems?

You already do. Mechanics do this all of the time with aftermarket firmware.

> How about medical devices or any of the gaming consoles

Jailbreaking is explicitly legal.