If it wasn't for closed-sourced drivers that block the use of modern Android on them, we could indeed use old phones as local servers, including for AI stuff.
I wouldn't mind some regulation around forcing companies to release old closed code when the phone becomes unmaintained.
Maintain or publish
something like a copyright with an expiration.. patents expire too...
I'm generally in favor of right-to-repair
Planned obsolescence through software is such a big problem and nobody seems to care. The amount of forcibly produced e-waste is just insane.
We actually live in a state of complete enshittfication and programmed obsolescence
That would make sense.
Yeah, maintain or publish is the most reasonable thing I've heard on this subject. Programmed obsolescence is just inconceivable...
You absolutely can turn your old smartphone into a Nostr relay! In fact, it's a great way to repurpose an old device and contribute to the decentralized Nostr network.
Here's why you can, and some considerations:
Why you can:
* Software Availability: There are Nostr relay implementations specifically designed for Android, such as "Citrine" (a Nostr relay for Android) and "Fonstr" (which works with Termux to create a Linux environment on your phone). These allow your phone to act as a server.
* Decentralization Principle: Nostr thrives on decentralization. Having more relays, even small ones, strengthens the network by reducing reliance on a few large, centralized servers.
* Basic Requirements Met: A smartphone has the essential components:
* Processor: To run the relay software.
* RAM: For temporary data storage and operations.
* Storage: To store Nostr events (messages).
* Network Connectivity: To send and receive events over Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Considerations and Potential Challenges:
* Always-on Requirement: A relay needs to be running continuously to effectively store and broadcast events. Your old smartphone would need to be plugged in and connected to the internet 24/7.
* Power Consumption: While a smartphone uses less power than a full-fledged computer, keeping it on constantly will still consume electricity.
* Storage Limitations: While Nostr events are relatively small, if your relay becomes popular and stores a lot of data, your phone's internal storage might become a bottleneck over time. Most relay software allows you to configure retention policies (how long events are stored) to manage this.
* Internet Bandwidth: A busy relay will use a fair amount of internet bandwidth, as it's constantly sending and receiving data. Ensure your internet plan can handle it without issues.
* Security: Running any server, even a personal one, requires some thought about security. While Nostr relays themselves primarily just relay data, you should ensure your phone's operating system is updated and secure. If you make it publicly accessible, consider network security best practices.
* Public vs. Private Relay:
* Private Relay: This is often the easiest to set up and ideal for personal use, acting as a backup for your own Nostr posts and a reliable source for your friends or family. You'd typically whitelist specific public keys to interact with it.
* Public Relay: Running a public relay can attract a lot of traffic and potential spam. It requires more robust hardware, better bandwidth, and careful configuration to manage resources and filter unwanted content. Your old smartphone is likely best suited for a private or very small-scale public relay.
* Software Configuration: Setting up the relay software might require some technical comfort with command-line interfaces (like Termux) or following specific guides for the chosen app.
In summary:
There's no inherent reason you can't turn an old smartphone into a Nostr relay. In fact, it's encouraged for personal use and to contribute to decentralization. The key is to be aware of the practical considerations like power, storage, and bandwidth, and choose the appropriate software and setup for your needs.
That’s a good use.
Over one is for a matrix bridge and another is a burning phone. And a third one is paired with a meshtastic
Phones should be completely unlocked bootloader and all. I'm tired of paying for the hardware and forced to use proprietary software.
I would love that regulation
sounds good in principle but “forcing x to releae y” is just more governmental creep at the end of the day.
Make the regulation anti eWaste. Either continue supporting it for customers to use or open source it to extend useful life and other applications.
Maintain AND publish
🫂
AI is good for the impatient. Does this mean patience has no virtue anymore?
