Before 2007: Windows
2007 - 2018: macOS
2018 - now   Linux

In the world of technology, change is the only constant. This truth is something I’ve come to embrace wholeheartedly as a software engineer and startup co-founder. My journey through the landscapes of operating systems—from Windows to macOS, and most recently to GNU/Linux—has been a testament to this. It’s a narrative not just about switching operating systems, but about understanding what lies at the heart of our choices and how they shape our interaction with technology.

For over a decade, macOS was my home. As a platform, it offered a blend of aesthetics and functionality that seemed unparalleled. Apple, at its core, is a hardware company, and this ethos is reflected in every aspect of their products. From the sleek design of the MacBook Pro to the seamless integration of software and hardware, Apple has mastered the art of creating devices that are not just tools, but extensions of our creative selves.

However, this marriage of form and function comes at a cost. Apple’s ecosystem is meticulously controlled, designed to keep users within its walled garden. Every few years, I found myself purchasing the latest MacBook Pro, drawn in by the promise of increased performance and the allure of new features. This cycle of upgrade and obsolescence is not unique to Apple; it’s a symptom of a broader culture of consumption that pervades the tech industry. Yet, it raises an important question: at what point does our reliance on technology become a form of indenture to the very companies that seek to empower us?

The transition to GNU/Linux was not just a change of operating systems; it was a philosophical shift. Linux, with its open-source ethos, represents a different kind of freedom. It’s a world where users have control over their computing environment, where software is built and shared by a community rather than dictated by a corporation. This shift was not without its challenges. Linux demands a level of engagement and understanding from its users that macOS never did. But in this demand lies its greatest strength: the opportunity to learn, to customize, and to truly own the technology we use.

Apple’s strategy of making macOS upgrades free was a game-changer, designed to accelerate adoption and further entrench users within its ecosystem. It’s a clever tactic, one that highlights the company’s understanding of software not just as a product, but as a service—one that keeps users coming back for more. Yet, this approach also underscores a fundamental difference in philosophy between macOS and Linux. Where Apple seeks to create a seamless, curated experience, Linux offers a canvas—a chance to build something uniquely ours.

In embracing Linux, I’ve come to appreciate the value of choice and the importance of understanding the tools we use. Technology is not just about convenience or productivity; it’s about empowerment. It’s about making informed choices that align with our values and our needs. For me, Linux represents a step towards reclaiming control over my digital environment—a move away from passive consumption towards active engagement.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that the decision to switch to Linux was not just about seeking an alternative to macOS. It was about questioning the assumptions that underlie our relationship with technology. It was about challenging the notion that newer is always better, that we must constantly upgrade to stay relevant. In the end, it’s not about which operating system we choose, but why we choose it. It’s about understanding that in the ever-changing landscape of technology, the truest form of empowerment comes from making choices that reflect who we are and how we want to engage with the world around us.

So why can’t we walk away? Perhaps it’s because walking away requires us to confront our dependencies—to question not just our choices, but the forces that shape them. In choosing Linux, I’ve taken a step towards answering these questions for myself. It’s a journey that’s far from over, but one that I embrace with open arms and an open mind.