Ya know, I've thought for a long time that the idea of app-store-ification of OS's was lifted directly from distro repos. The depth of use is drastically different, but the core concept is the same.

Something like this is probably more useful in the Linux desktop advocacy areas and not so much for hackers. Sometimes suspension of disbelief should be applied to projects like this, as it's target market is not hackers but instead helpful in converting desktop users.

You know, I realized I DO like the optional app-storeification of desktops, when it's in the open source world and there's no DRM or account tie-in. The Ubuntu software center is great (but I usually just use apt-get). I guess what I meant was the "I'm Apple and you should only be allowed to install the software I want you to have - you know - for your safety!" trend which seems to be taking hold. The warnings presented are alarmist, and the hacks like using functions meant for assistive devices for Steam are an indication of the garden walls closing in.

That being said, I totally get why Apple, MS, et al are doing this. Unsavvy users installing random binaries causes no shortage of headaches or damage to your reputation. I just worry about the long term implications.