Apple in 2019 is reminiscent of Linux in 2000
Summary
Jussi Pakkanen compares frustrating macOS problems with early desktop Linux and questions the reputation of platforms that supposedly just work. After deleting more than 40 GB, df still only reported 8 GB of free space. APFS held back the deleted data as reserved, theoretically purgeable space.
Ideas
- Deleted files did not free reserved APFS space as expected.
- An Xcode update then required manual tmutil intervention.
- External devices, installation and updates caused recurring friction.
- User communities often defend familiar platforms reflexively.
Insights
- Product maturity can decline even though individual components advance technically.
- Closed integration does not prevent states that are hard to explain.
- Platform loyalty makes a sober assessment of everyday usability problems harder.
Facts
- Only thinning out local Time Machine snapshots with tmutil made the Xcode update possible.
- The comparison covers monitors, software installation, hardware compatibility, support, ports and user reactions.
Recommendations
- Check free and purgeable space before large system updates.
- Assess platforms by your own workflows rather than their reputation.
References
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