Steve Jobs & Apple recently unveiled the iPad, essentially, a big iPod touch. But the big revelation was not the device or the innovative hardware used to make it so efficient. They real shocker was that Apple came out and said that they believe the future of computing is in “closed devices”.

What is a closed device? One that you wouldn’t want. Imagine having an exotic car that comes with a driver. It is very high performance and looks amazing, however, the driver will only drive to destinations approved by the car company at speeds approved by the car company. This is Apple’s approach. You don’t even get to drive the car or choose where you’re going.

They restrict what you can do and how you can use the device. All actions must be approved by the state Apple.
As the owner of these devices, you have no control and are limited to applications approved by the state Apple.

Why is this important/rant worthy?

Unlike the iPhone this new device,  is meant to compete closely to full-fledged computers, attempting to be more than a Kindle but less than a Netbook. The Netbooks and other tablet computers out there, have full fledged operating systems where the user has control /freedom over many decisions, the look, the pictures, how things are arranged, the applications installed, etc. All of the subtle tiny detailed decisions that make up our digital lifestyle. This iPad device is Apple’s first step to transition their subscription model of closed computing. In the new model, Apple will choose which apps are made available and how you may interact in the space. Microsoft is often fingered for evil restrictive practices but their past shenanigans are eclipsed by what Apple is trying to do.

What You Can Do Now!

1. Say to your Apple comrades “No thanks. I’m an adult and I prefer freedom to take charge of my life, digital lifestyle or other.” Don’t buy the iPad at the very least.

2. Support open platforms and devices that keep you in control. Share your support! Get on Facebook become a fan of the EFF, WordPress non-profit, digital liquidity, Savetheinternet.org and other freedom loving, open source supporting, user centric causes.

3. Buy Android  devices instead. No offense to BlackBerry or other competitors but Android/Chrome/Google OS are the only true competition for Apple. It has the same capability to transition from mobile device to computer without limiting its users’ freedoms.

4. Protect your freedom. Hack your Apple devices.

The only option to take control is to hack/jailbreak the device. And Apple makes the jail-breakers out to be criminals. Fighting to preserve personal freedom shouldn’t be illegal. These devices and Apple’s new approach to the consumers illustrate the clear and immediate need for us to take a look at the infrastructure of computing and the web and our freedom.

5. Read -How the iPhone Interface Creates Perilous Trends For Consumers and Developers.