Maybe one extra world: They lied maliciously.

Also, they did so repeatedly, over a very long time and while it must have been fully apparent with insider knowledge that this setup cannot work.

Well, this was a life-changing comment.

Interesting, thank you!

Out of curiosity, where and in which social groups did you hear this? I have never heard such thoughts here in Germany, and we tend to be idiots.

Keep fighting the good fight, we have to keep the lights on in free soft- and hardware to provide a harbor for people who want to escape this shit.

Just the term “side loading” instantly frames installing software on a device you own as something shady.

Also don’t forget the dubious AliExpress devices that have all these symbols, no data lines, Vcc at 12V and ground attached to a loose M8 nut.

When is the defense against an invasion force bloodthirsty?

Companies should be required to maintain a stash of plans and source code which is automatically released upon the company stopping operations, unless the IP is bought.

If you truly believe you have nothing to hide, please post your full name and address, telephone number, email, bank balance, an assessment of your relationship to your parents and a link to your complete photo folder as a response to this comment.

How do you know which option to pick though, if both seem equivalent in the moment?

When faced with seemingly equivalent choices, pick the once that maximizes your future options.