Tivoization

Tivoization refers to the practice where device manufacturers, like TiVo, use open-source software (such as Linux) but restrict users from modifying it. While the software's source code is available, hardware limitations or security measures prevent users from replacing or altering it. This means users can't update, customize, or fix the software themselves, effectively limiting their rights despite the software being open-source. Tivoization highlights a tension between open-source licensing and hardware restrictions, raising concerns about user freedoms and control over the devices they own.