Topic > iPhones - 1161

iPhones are limited in that when they are purchased, the company that issued them makes them "locked", meaning that anyone with an iPhone is "willing to use locked phones, with all the intrinsic limitations". (Haubenreich 1509). For example, if users want to have music on their devices, they must purchase it from the iTunes Store, a mobile store that users must use when using an Apple device. Another example of lack of customization is the comparison with another device that is not an iPhone. Another device allows an individual to download "themes" to their devices that could change the color of on-screen keyboards or even home screen icons. The iPhone does not allow users to do this at this time. Some may find this limiting, but as previously stated, anyone with an iPhone should accept all of its limitations. Since these iPhones must be hacked in some way to be customized, the factories that produce them, particularly those factories in China, have seen an increase in workers stealing the devices from the factory and selling them on the streets for profit (O 'Hara 93). This causes an irregularity in sales, since those who buy these devices on the street potentially own an illegal device. The popularity of the iPhone also brings consequences such as