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Comment by lotsofpulp | Hacker News Reader

What if customers want to buy a product where the manufacturer maintains a ridiculous degree of control?

For example, to make it completely worthless to thieves.

> For example, to make it completely worthless to thieves.

That doesn't require the manufacturer to maintain any control of the device at all, it just requires the owner to keep the unlock key in a different place than the device.

People who are fallible remain interest in manufacturer assistance in this area.

You could choose to give the manufacturer a copy of the keys -- or anyone else you trust to hold them for you. But what right do they have to retain them against your wishes or use them without the device owner's consent?

For that there's insurance.

Like apple? Where bad evil thieves who want to change their screen are rightfully prevented.

Somehow iPhones are still stolen every day.

It's all just a play, manufacturers don't give a rats ass about thieves, they want to prevent a third market because it hurts their imaginary revenue.

It seems you're ok if the manufacturer (arbitrarily?) expands the definition of "thieves".

Then you can buy the device SKU with such a pre-installed system component

Thats called Leasing.

One of the main components of a lease is you have to give it back.

Also, the manufacturer can let people sell the device and still maintain the ability to brick it if the owner reports it stolen.

Not even remotely the same thing. Leasing means you only pay depreciation plus interest; it is an economic alternative to up front purchase or installment payments.

Sure it is, you paid money but somebody else still maintains ownership.

If we’re being reductive, going to the movies is leasing. Treatments at hospitals are leasing. Renting a car is leasing.

Bro doesn't know the difference between goods and services.

Industry is fighting tooth and nail to destroy any distinction between the two.

"You'll own nothing and be happy"

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