Open vs. Closed Computing Platforms: A Comparison
The Evolution of Platform Openness
Recent years have witnessed a growing trend towards closed platforms. These are operating systems that restrict software installation to applications vetted by the platform’s creator.
Despite this shift, numerous widely-used platforms – including many mobile systems – remain fundamentally open platforms.
Defining Open Platforms and Sideloading
Platforms featuring app stores can still be categorized as open if they permit the installation of applications from sources outside the official store. This practice is commonly known as sideloading.
Even with a tightly controlled app store, the availability of sideloading provides users with an avenue to bypass platform restrictions and exercise greater control over their devices.
Legal Implications of Circumventing Platform Restrictions
The act of modifying a device to remove software restrictions – often called jailbreaking – and enable the installation of unapproved software is legally considered a violation under the US Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and comparable legislation globally.
Interestingly, this legal framework extends to activities like playing DVDs on Linux, demonstrating its broad scope.
While the US DMCA includes a specific exemption for jailbreaking smartphones, this exception does not extend to tablets or other types of devices.
Windows Desktop: Accessibility on Intel, Restrictions on ARM
The Windows desktop environment remains the dominant choice for many computer users, largely due to its open nature which has consistently fostered innovation. Historically, developers haven't required Microsoft's approval to distribute software for the Windows desktop – they could independently create and deliver applications directly to end-users.
With traditional Intel x86 versions of Windows 8, the desktop continues to function as an unrestricted platform. Users retain the freedom to install any software they choose, without intervention from Microsoft.
However, on Windows RT devices utilizing ARM processors, the Windows desktop has transitioned into a closed ecosystem. Currently, only applications specifically developed by Microsoft are permitted to run on the Windows RT desktop.
Reports indicate Microsoft is potentially developing a version of Microsoft Outlook for Windows RT. This highlights the limitation: only Microsoft is authorized to create and distribute new applications for this desktop environment.
Consequently, individuals desiring new desktop applications – for example, an email client – for Windows RT must rely on Microsoft to provide them.
The Restricted Nature of Windows Modern
The Modern interface introduced with Windows 8 operates as a closed ecosystem. Standard users are limited to installing Modern applications exclusively through the Windows Store. Should Microsoft decide to remove an application from the Store due to policy violations, its installation or execution on your computer becomes impossible.
Essentially, Microsoft maintains control over which Modern applications can function on Windows 8 systems.
Sideloading Restrictions
Similar to other closed platforms, Microsoft permits sideloading, but its accessibility is restricted. This functionality is primarily intended for developers for application testing purposes, and for corporate environments needing to deploy internal applications.
The design of sideloading deliberately prevents typical users from utilizing it to install applications that haven't been officially approved.
- Sideloading is available for developers.
- Corporate networks can utilize sideloading for internal apps.
- Average users are restricted from using sideloading for unapproved software.
This controlled approach distinguishes Windows Modern from more open computing platforms.
The Open Nature of Apple macOS
Despite common perceptions, Apple's macOS remains an open platform for software distribution. While the Mac App Store imposes limitations and utilizes sandboxing for applications, developers retain the option to bypass the store and deliver software directly to end-users.
This contrasts sharply with Apple’s iOS ecosystem, where the App Store holds a more dominant position. macOS offers greater flexibility in this regard.
User Control Over Application Sources
macOS incorporates a security feature that can restrict the installation of applications not originating from the App Store. However, this setting is entirely under the user’s control and can be easily enabled or disabled.
This allows users to determine their preferred level of security versus convenience when installing software. The choice remains with the individual.
Linux and Chrome OS: The Nature of Openness
The foundational principle of Linux is its open-source nature, coupled with a decentralized structure. This allows users complete control and the ability to install any desired software.
Given that Chrome OS is built upon the Linux kernel, it inherently shares this same level of freedom. Enabling developer mode permits the installation of operating systems like Ubuntu, functioning alongside the native Chrome OS environment.
Chrome Browser's App Installation Restrictions
By default, the Google Chrome browser restricts installations to applications and extensions available through the official Chrome Web Store. This curated approach prioritizes security and stability.
Despite these limitations, methods exist to bypass the standard restrictions and install apps and extensions originating from sources outside the Chrome Web Store.
This provides a degree of flexibility for users who require software not officially offered within the Chrome ecosystem.
Apple iOS: A Closed EcosystemThe iOS operating system developed by Apple is a prime example of a closed platform. Users of iOS devices are restricted to installing applications exclusively through the official App Store.
Unlike open platforms, when an application is removed from Apple’s App Store, it is effectively prohibited from running on any iOS device.
Restrictions and Policies
Over time, Apple has implemented numerous limitations for developers. Historically, the company prevented the distribution of applications that directly competed with pre-installed Apple software.
A notable example includes a year-long block on the Google Voice application. Furthermore, certain games addressing sensitive political themes have faced bans, while depictions of graphic violence are generally permitted.
While sideloading – installing apps from sources outside the App Store – is technically possible, this functionality is primarily reserved for developers and businesses, not the average iOS user.
Google Android: An Open Ecosystem
The Android operating system, developed by Google, is fundamentally designed as an open platform. While Android initially defaults to installing applications exclusively through the Google Play Store, users retain the option to modify this behavior.
Specifically, users can activate the "Unknown sources" setting within Android’s configuration menu. This action permits the installation of Android applications originating from sources outside of the official Google Play Store.
This capability extends beyond mere possibility; it offers tangible advantages. Activating "Unknown sources" facilitates the installation of alternative app stores, like Amazon's Appstore for Android.
Furthermore, it allows users to install Android games acquired through platforms such as the Humble Indie Bundle. It also enables access to applications not yet listed on Google Play, including media center software like XBMC.
Even when Google removes an application from its Play Store, such as the Adblock Plus app for Android, users aren’t left without recourse. They can still install it directly from the developer’s website.
While we don’t necessarily advocate for the use of ad-blockers, we firmly believe in empowering users with choice and fostering open discussion, rather than restricting software installation.
Historically, some mobile carriers, including AT&T, have attempted to disable this "Unknown sources" option. However, these efforts were ultimately reversed due to the widespread adoption and demand for alternative app stores like the Amazon Appstore.
The Significance of Openness
- Flexibility: Users are not limited to a single source for applications.
- Choice: Access to a wider range of software options is provided.
- Availability: Apps removed from the Google Play Store can still be installed.
The open nature of Android is a key differentiator, providing users with greater control over their mobile experience.
Amazon Kindle Fire: An Open Platform
The Amazon Kindle Fire utilizes an operating system built upon the Android platform. Despite initial restrictions, users have the capability to install applications from sources beyond the official Amazon Appstore.
This functionality, however, is not enabled by default. Amazon disables it as a precautionary measure to enhance security, mirroring a common practice found within the standard Android ecosystem.
Understanding the Openness
While seemingly closed, the Kindle Fire possesses an underlying openness. It's a deliberate design choice to balance user freedom with system protection.
The ability to sideload apps, when activated, transforms the device into a more versatile platform. This allows access to a wider range of software options.
- Android Foundation: The core of the Kindle Fire is rooted in the Android operating system.
- Sideloading Capability: Installing apps from outside the Amazon Appstore is possible with a simple settings adjustment.
- Security Considerations: Amazon prioritizes security by initially disabling external app installations.
Essentially, the Kindle Fire presents a controlled level of openness. Users can unlock greater functionality, but must acknowledge the potential security implications.
Windows Phone: A Closed Ecosystem
The Windows Phone operating system, developed by Microsoft, employs a curated approach to application installation. Users are limited to obtaining apps exclusively through the official Windows Phone Store. This contrasts sharply with the earlier Windows Mobile platform.
Windows Mobile previously permitted the installation of software from any source, offering greater user flexibility. The current Windows Phone system, however, aligns more closely with the restrictions inherent in the Modern user interface and its associated security protocols.
Shift from Openness
Microsoft transitioned from a more open system with Windows Mobile to a closed ecosystem with Windows Phone. This change reflects a focus on security and a controlled user experience.
The Windows Phone Store acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring that all applications meet Microsoft’s standards before they become available to users. This differs significantly from the freedom offered by the earlier platform.
Consequently, Windows Phone shares more characteristics with the constrained Modern environment than with the traditionally open Windows desktop operating system.
BlackBerry: Open Platform
BlackBerry operating systems permit the installation of applications from sources beyond the official BlackBerry app marketplace. This capability proves especially beneficial for users of BlackBerry 10 devices.
On BlackBerry 10, users can utilize sideloading to install a vast number of Android applications. These are applications that have not been formally adapted for the BlackBerry environment.
Sideloading Android Apps
The ability to sideload apps expands the functionality of BlackBerry 10 devices significantly. It provides access to a wider range of software options than would otherwise be available.
This feature allows users to bypass the limitations of the official app store and explore a greater diversity of applications. It’s a key aspect of the platform’s flexibility.
Game Consoles: A Closed Ecosystem
Modern game consoles are evolving into full-fledged computing devices. They now support applications and web browsers alongside gaming, with games themselves being a form of software.
Despite this evolution, widely used game consoles have historically operated as closed platforms. Even early consoles, such as the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), mandated that game developers obtain licensing from the console manufacturer prior to distribution and execution.
The "homebrew" communities that have sprung up around various consoles frequently rely on identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities to enable the operation of unofficial, user-created games.
The Rise of Open Platforms
Consoles like the Android-based Ouya and the PC-gaming-focused Steambox represent a shift towards open platforms. These systems allow developers to create and distribute games directly to users, bypassing the need for manufacturer approval.
Currently, however, leading consoles – PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo – remain firmly within a closed platform model.
Why Platform Openness Matters
The significance of open platforms lies in user autonomy. They grant individuals the right to determine what software runs on their personal computing devices, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles.
This freedom extends beyond legal considerations; even without the potential for legal repercussions, an open platform facilitates the easy distribution of software that might be disapproved of by the platform's governing body.
Image Credits: Mark Fischer (Flickr), Richard Gillin (Flickr), Kiwi (Flickr), Jeff Geerling (Flickr), Blake Patterson (Flickr), Jon Fingas (Flickr), Darien Library (Flickr)