I think another issue is their solution to the problem is flawed. Most users don't have a desire or the ability to run their own server.
Running a basic application on a web server seems trivial to nerds, but to average users it seems impossible.
Running a basic application on a web server seems trivial to nerds, but to average users it seems impossible.
Diaspora should have a similar model. You can use a hosted node, or one your ISP provides you when you sign up, just like they provide you with an email address.
We don't, but we should, eventually. What you describe is only the first step. The ideal world clearly lies in easy, ubiquitous self hosting.
That seems rather different here where users are asked to do things that in them selves are not obvious. The users don't know how to download a node and the idea that someone you trust is going to run the node for you just isn't a very convincing idea IMHO.
What has been done with pocket computers can be done with servers. An already set up Sheeva plug is all it takes. And it can be bough instead of downloaded.