— Jean Racine
In an act of unprecedented arrogance, Apple once again dictated to their users what they believe is good for them — this is yet another example of how they take away their users’ freedom.
Yesterday, they finally admitted what measurements by various users had suggested earlier: one year ago Apple introduced a feature that deliberately slows down the performance of older iPhone models in order to “deliver the best experience to their customers”.
This is, of course, total BS. It’s obvious that the real motive was to boost sales of their new products. Why? Because they kept it secret. Period.
If they really had the best of their customers in mind, they would have announced such a drastic step in good time. Further, they would have given their users a choice (something totally alien to them) by presenting a simple opt-in dialog:
Dear loyal customer, we’ve discovered that the capacity of your phone’s battery has become low. We strongly suggest that you either a) buy one of our latest models, b) replace your battery (which will cost you many $$$, because you can’t do it yourself), or reduce the CPU performance which will DELIVER THE BEST EXPERIENCE to you. What do you want us to deliver to you?
1. Our latest iPhone model
2. A replacement battery
3. The best experience
Some time ago, I wrote a post which details why I don’t buy iThings and this recent incident just adds to the list. However, I’m enough of a realist to doubt that it will reduce the total number of iThings under this year’s Christmas trees.