"1) When the user owns the device it is up to him to decide what to do with it and not the manufacturer. So while they may not have the need for it, they definitely have the right to it if they so desire."
Is this not part of a wider discussion about ownership and 'unregulated rights' for stuff such as books, music, films as well as hardware?
Global comment: Shuttleworth can do the public relations can't he?
Okay - the problem is ownership. When you rent a car in Hertz you know that you cannot modify the vehicle and must return it. So is with the library book you borrow.
But if Subaru tell you that you cannot tune aftermarket your Subaru or you must drive it only on Subaru approved roads in California (but not Nevada) it is stupid.
Currently we are in the reverse dongle situation- in the 90s you need that dongle so your software (OrCAD back then) can work. Now is the opposite - you may like the hardware but we actively prevent you for using it with other software.
The problem comes from the fact that modern devices are general purpose PCs in ultra small factors. You couldn't change nokia 3310 OS back then, but you needed not because the thing was a phonebook with antenna. But nowadays with so much of your life stored in the smartphone the idea that someone has higher privileges/easier access to your data than you is between repulsive and frightening.
Is this not part of a wider discussion about ownership and 'unregulated rights' for stuff such as books, music, films as well as hardware?
Global comment: Shuttleworth can do the public relations can't he?