why are phones so locked down unlike pcs and laptops?

  • GamingChairModel@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    1
    ·
    10 hours ago

    Every radio band is subject to their own rules.

    Wi-Fi and Bluetooth transmit on frequencies that are “license by rule,” where the FCC license to transmit is granted to everyone who follows the Part 15 rules about the technical details. So nobody needs a separate license to use wifi or Bluetooth, and the devices themselves are only subject to certain technical restrictions, like maximum transmit power and the like.

    Ham radios transmit on bands that allow for a license for anyone who can pass the test and pay the fee.

    Cell phones operate on frequencies and bands that have much stricter licensing rules, and the devices are certified to follow the technical rules under pretty much all circumstances. They go through much more thorough testing than the radios capable of transmitting on amateur bands or license by rule bands.

    • Toes♀@ani.social
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      1
      ·
      7 hours ago

      I understand that. It’s just that this entire argument doesn’t qualify. The OS has no out of spec influence over the modem due to its design. Its entirely self-contained component with its own firmware and driver stack. The OS is at the mercy of the modem’s firmware and that firmware prevents this exact scenario described.