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'Apple: Anti-dev platform frustration vented.

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# Apple. The anti dev platform.
## The Great Mac‑Mishap of the Week
This week has been a significant trial. I’ve had to use MacOS in my day job, and it has helped reinforce my existing disdain for the platform. In fact, in the 10ish years since I’ve used an Apple-based platform, one thing is clear: it got worse.
It was a fine Tuesday, the kind of day where you’re sure you’ve got your life together. I was handed a loaner MacBook Pro from 2020, a device that, in the grand scheme of Apple’s hardware timeline, is practically a fossil. The only thing that’s older than that is my favourite pair of socks, and even those have seen better days. I was told I could use it for the day-job, so I pulled out my trusty MacBook Air (the one that still runs Windows 7, if you can believe it) and got to work. Within the first hour, the laptop’s processor began to cough like a kangaroo on a hot day. The screen flickered, the fan whined, and the battery icon started blinking faster than a neon sign in a Sydney nightclub. I thought, “Sure thing, this is just a bit of lag.” Then I realised I needed Xcode. I opened the App Store, typed “Xcode 15”, and the download bar started a slow crawl that could rival a tortoise on a Sunday stroll. My MacBook Pro just wasn’t up to the task. It was like trying to run a marathon in a pair of flip-flops. That’s when the first truth hit me: Apple’s ecosystem is a ticking time bomb for developers who don’t have the newest hardware. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
## The MacBook Loan Saga
## Hardware Hiccups: The “New‑Hardware‑Only” Doctrine
Picture this: I’m handed a MacBook that’s older than my first barbie. It’s a 2020 model, and I’m told it’s “good enough” for the job. I’m a bit skeptical, but I’m also a bit of a daredevil, so I give it a go. Fast forward a few days, and I’m staring at a blinking cursor that says, “Sorry, you need macOS 13.4 or later.” My heart drops faster than a roo on a trampoline. The device is basically a relic, and I’m stuck in a time-warp where I can’t run the latest Xcode. The irony? I’m a developer, and I’m being told I need the newest hardware to write code. It’s like being told you need a brand-new car to drive a 1995 model. Fair dinkum, right?
Apple’s hardware philosophy can be summed up in a single phrase: *If it’s not the newest model, it’s obsolete.* I’m not saying that the older Macs are all bad; they were solid machines back in the day. But the company’s recent updates have made it clear that if you want to run the latest macOS or Xcode, you need a brand-new machine.
## Xcode and the Hardware Lottery
* **Latest macOS**: Requires a 2017-era MacBook Pro or newer.
* **Latest Xcode**: Requires macOS 13 or newer.
* **Apple Silicon**: The M1 and M2 chips are the new gold standard; anything older is considered “legacy”.
Xcode is the holy grail for iOS and macOS developers. It’s the Swiss Army knife that lets you build, test, and ship apps. But here’s the catch: the latest Xcode only runs on the newest macOS, which only runs on the newest Macs. It’s a vicious cycle that feels like a game of “Who’s got the newest hardware?” and the loser is the developer who has to juggle between outdated tools and a broken workflow. I’ve seen developers who are fine with a 2015 MacBook Pro, but they’re forced to upgrade to a 2023 model to keep up. The cost? A couple of thousand dollars, and that’s just the hardware. Add the $150 Apple Developer Program fee, and you’re looking at a pretty hefty bill for a single developer.
This isn’t just a policy; it’s a marketing strategy. Apple’s marketing team loves to highlight the performance gains of the newest chips, but they forget to mention the cost of constantly upgrading. The result? Developers are forced to buy a new Mac every 12-18 months just to keep up with the latest tools. The irony is that the very same policy that supposedly gives developers the best performance also makes them pay for it. And if you’re a small indie developer or a freelancer, that cost can be crippling.
## Forced Obsolescence: A New Aussie Idiom?
## Software Snags: Xcode, macOS, and the Never‑Ending Update Cycle
We Aussies love a good yarn, and the term “forced obsolescence” is about to become the next slang in our tech circles. It’s the practice of designing products that become unusable or obsolete after a short period, forcing consumers to buy new ones. Apple’s approach to macOS and Xcode is a textbook example. They’re basically saying, “If you want to keep up, you need to keep buying.” It’s a bit like the old “you can’t have your cake and eat it too” adage, but with a tech twist. And let’s be honest, who wants to be the person who’s always buying the latest gadget just to keep their dev environment running? Not me, and probably not you either.
The software side of the Apple ecosystem is just as unforgiving. Here’s a quick rundown of the pain points:
## Windows 11 and TPM 2.0: The Same Game, Different Rules
| Issue | What Happens | Why It Matters |
| :------------------------ | :----------------------------------------- | :------------------------------------------- |
| **Xcode Compatibility** | Older macOS versions can’t run the latest Xcode. | You can’t build new iOS apps or use the latest Swift features. |
| **macOS Updates** | Must run the latest macOS to get the newest Xcode. | Each macOS update often requires a new hardware generation. |
| **App Store Policies** | Newer apps require newer SDKs. | Your app may be rejected for not meeting minimum requirements. |
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But what about Windows?” Well, Microsoft’s Windows 11 has its own version of forced obsolescence. It requires a TPM 2.0 chip for security, which means you can’t run the latest OS on older hardware. It’s the same game, just with a different rulebook. The irony is that both giants are pushing the same agenda: “You need the newest hardware to stay secure.” But let’s be real – the security argument is a bit flimsy. If you’re using a cloud service, you’re already compromised. So why should you pay extra for a hardware upgrade that’s just a marketing ploy?
In practice, this means you’re locked into a perpetual cycle of upgrading both hardware and software. You buy a new Mac, install the latest macOS, download Xcode, and then you’re already a few months behind when the next macOS version drops. It’s a vicious cycle that leaves developers feeling like they’re chasing a moving target.
## The Cloud: The New “Compromise”
## Forced Obsolescence: A Modern‑Day Car‑Replacement Policy
We’re living in a cloud-first world, and that’s great. But the cloud isn’t free, and it’s not always the solution it’s made out to be. Sure, you can write code on a cheap laptop and push it to a remote build pipeline, but that’s only part of the picture. The cloud can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it gives you access to powerful resources; on the other hand, it introduces new security risks and a new layer of complexity. And let’s not forget the cost – cloud services aren’t cheap, especially if you’re running AI workloads or large-scale simulations. So, while the cloud is a great tool, it’s not a silver bullet that solves all your problems.
Apple’s approach to hardware is reminiscent of a car manufacturer that forces you to replace your vehicle every five years. Imagine having to buy a brand-new car every five years just to keep driving. It’s absurd, isn’t it? Well, that’s essentially what Apple is doing, but with laptops. Forced obsolescence is a marketing tactic that encourages constant upgrading. It’s not just about new features; it’s about creating a perception that the old is worthless. While some argue that newer hardware brings better performance and security, the reality is that many older Macs can still run modern software just fine if you’re willing to make a few tweaks. Consider the following:
## Linux: The Underdog Hero
* **Linux on old Macs**: Many developers install Linux on older Macs to extend their life.
* **Hardware upgrades**: Replacing the SSD or adding more RAM can breathe new life into an old machine.
* **Virtualisation**: Running macOS in a virtual machine on a Windows PC can be a cost-effective alternative.
Apple’s strategy is to lock developers into a cycle of spending, which is a clever, if somewhat underhanded, business model.
Enter Linux – the unsung hero of the tech world. I’ve been using Linux for years, and it’s been a lifesaver. I can run the latest OS on old hardware, and I can keep my dev environment up to date without breaking the bank. Linux is like that reliable old ute that never gives you a hard time. It’s secure, it’s fast, and it’s free. And the best part? You can run the latest AI tools, even if they’re a bit slow. So, if you’re tired of being forced to upgrade your hardware every year, consider switching to Linux. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your sanity.
## The Cost of Being an Apple Developer
Let’s talk numbers. If you’re a developer who wants to publish on the App Store, you’re looking at:
Let’s talk numbers. The Apple Developer Program costs $150 per year, and that’s just the start. You need a Mac, which can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. Then there’s the cost of the latest hardware, which can be a few thousand dollars more. Add in the cost of cloud services, and you’re looking at a pretty hefty bill for a single developer. And don’t forget the time you spend dealing with Apple’s hoops and paperwork. It’s a lot of money and effort for a platform that’s not exactly user-friendly. So, if you’re a developer, you might want to consider whether the Apple ecosystem is worth the cost.
* **Apple Developer Program**: $99 AUD per year (or $150 USD).
* **Hardware**: $2,000–$3,000 AUD for a new MacBook Pro.
* **Software**: Free, but you need the latest macOS to run Xcode.
* **Other Costs**: Cloud build services, testing devices, and so on.
## Security: Myth or Reality?
That’s a lot of money for a hobbyist or a small indie studio. And don’t forget the hidden costs: time spent dealing with compatibility issues, the mental toll of constantly upgrading, and the frustration of dealing with Apple’s support. For many developers, the cost of being an Apple developer feels like a tax. It’s not just a fee; it’s a gatekeeping mechanism that keeps the ecosystem closed and expensive.
Apple’s marketing often touts security as a major selling point. But let’s be honest – security is a myth. If you’re using a cloud service, you’re already compromised. And if you’re using a Mac, you’re still vulnerable to malware and other threats. The real issue is that Apple’s security model is designed to keep you locked into their ecosystem, not to protect you from real threats. So, if you’re looking for a secure platform, you might want to look elsewhere. Linux, for example, is a great option for security, and it’s free.
## Security Myths vs. Reality
## The Ecosystem: A Toxic Cocktail
Apple’s marketing often touts security as a selling point. “Your data is safe because you’re in the Apple ecosystem.” But the reality is that security is a shared responsibility. Here’s why:
The Apple ecosystem is a toxic cocktail that’s designed to keep you locked in. You need a Mac to develop, you need an Apple ID to sign in, you need a developer license to publish, and you need a cloud service to run your code. It’s a lot of hoops to jump through, and it’s not exactly user-friendly. And let’s not forget the cost – it’s a lot of money for a single developer. So, if you’re looking for a platform that’s easy to use, secure, and affordable, you might want to consider other options.
* **Cloud Services**: If you’re using a cloud build service, your code is already in the cloud.
* **Developer Tools**: Xcode and other tools are open source in parts; vulnerabilities can be discovered.
* **Hardware**: Even the newest MacBooks have hardware bugs (think Spectre/Meltdown).
## The Future: Advocating for an Apple Tax
The real question is: does the extra cost of an Apple device justify the security benefits? For many developers, the answer is no. If you’re already using a cloud service, you’re already exposed to the same risks.
I’m not just a critic – I’m an advocate for change. I’m calling for an Apple tax that would cover the cost of new equipment and the extra time spent dealing with Apple’s hoops. I’m also calling for a more open ecosystem that allows developers to use the tools they need without being locked into a single platform. And I’m calling for a more affordable developer program that doesn’t require you to pay a hefty fee to publish your app. If you’re a developer, you deserve a platform that’s easy to use, secure, and affordable.
## Linux to the Rescue: My 15‑Year‑Old Beast
## Alternatives: Embrace the Linux Way
I’ve had a 15-year-old desktop that still runs Linux with flying colours. It’s got an 8-year-old graphics card, a 4-year-old CPU, and a 10-year-old all-in-one that I use as a kitchen hub. Here’s what it can do:
If you’re tired of being locked into Apple’s ecosystem, consider switching to Linux. Linux is free, it’s secure, and it’s fast. And the best part? You can run the latest OS on old hardware. So, if you’re looking for a platform that’s easy to use, secure, and affordable, Linux is a great option. And if you’re a developer, you can use the latest tools and frameworks without having to upgrade your hardware.
* **Latest AI tools**: Runs the newest AI frameworks, albeit a bit slower.
* **Gaming**: Handles most modern games at decent settings.
* **Development**: Works for web development, Python, and even some C++ projects.
## Call to Action: Speak Up, Change the Narrative
All of this without spending a fortune on new hardware. The only downside is that I can’t run Xcode or build iOS apps. But if you’re not targeting Apple’s ecosystem, this is a perfectly viable setup.
If you’re a developer, you deserve a platform that’s easy to use, secure, and affordable. So, if you’re tired of being locked into Apple’s ecosystem, speak up. Talk to your peers, share your experience, and advocate for change. And if you’re a consumer, consider using Linux or other open‑source platforms that are free, secure, and affordable. Let’s make the tech world a better place for everyone.
## The “Apple Tax” and the Future of Development
## Conclusion
I’m not just ranting for the sake of it. I’m advocating for change. If Apple wants to keep developers happy, they need to:
1. **Lower the entry cost**: Reduce or eliminate the developer program fee.
2. **Improve backward compatibility**: Allow older Macs to run newer Xcode versions.
3. **Offer better support for non‑Apple platforms**: Provide tools for building iOS apps on Linux or Windows.
Until Apple does this, developers will continue to feel like they’re being held hostage by a closed ecosystem. The solution? Advocate for an “Apple tax” that reflects the true cost of being locked into their platform. Think of it as a subscription fee for the privilege of using their hardware and software.
## Conclusion: Time to Re‑think the Ecosystem
In the end, the Apple ecosystem feels like a trap for developers. The hardware and software are locked into a cycle of constant upgrading, the costs are high, and the security claims are overblown. For those of us who prefer open source, Linux, or simply want to avoid paying for a “developer license,” the alternative is clear. If you’re a developer who loves Apple’s design aesthetic, I understand the appeal. But if you’re looking for flexibility, cost-efficiency, and a community that values open standards, it’s time to look beyond the closed Apple world. Let’s keep our laptops from becoming the next generation of disposable devices, and instead build a future where developers can choose the tools that best fit their needs—without being forced to upgrade every year. Thanks for sticking with me through this rant. If you’re feeling the same way, drop a comment or share your own experience. Let’s keep the conversation going and maybe, just maybe, we can push for a more open, affordable, and developer-friendly ecosystem.
So there you have it – a 3000‑word rant about Apple’s anti‑dev platform, a call to action, and a comedic yarn about the state of tech today. I hope you enjoyed the read, and I hope it gave you something to think about. If you’re a developer, you deserve a platform that’s easy to use, secure, and affordable. And if you’re a consumer, you deserve a platform that’s free, secure, and affordable. Let’s make the tech world a better place for everyone. Cheers!