Operating system decline and cultural death
10 hours ago
- #technology
- #computing
- #creativity
- The author expresses concern over the current state of operating systems, particularly mobile devices, which they describe as 'locked down walled gardens' that prioritize consumption over creation.
- Reflecting on their childhood, the author recalls how a basic PC allowed them to experiment and create, fostering a lifelong passion for computing and creativity.
- The author laments that modern children's first computers are often locked-down devices like iPhones or Chromebooks, which limit their ability to explore and create.
- They criticize the trend towards sandboxed, walled-garden computing environments, which they believe stifle creativity and innovation by making it difficult for hobbyists to publish and share software.
- The author sees Windows as the last mainstream operating system that still allows for experimentation, but worries it may follow the same restrictive trends.
- They argue that the widening gap between programmers and users is detrimental, gatekeeping the creative potential of computing.
- Despite their alarmist tone, the author acknowledges that the situation isn't dire yet but fears the trend is irreversible and beyond the control of even tech industry leaders.