lmac

Right idea, wrong argument. Probable cause is not necessary. Is walking through the metal detector an illegal search too? Are explosive-sniffing dogs at ball games illegal? There needs to be a reason why inspecting everybody's phone is beneficial. I haven't looked, but I would bet there is some sort of implied consent statement when you are applying for a passport.

I disagree. You are being searched for weapons. Searching your phone, they want to know your beliefs. Big difference. TSA theater can continue to make people take off their shoes and belts so they will think they are safe, but this is way over the line.

gatorguy said:

lmac said:

If this comes to pass, I'm writing a big fat check to the ACLU, putting my phone in my checked bag, and disabling the fingerprint activation. And no, I've got nothing to hide.

If you are a US citizen coming home you will be allowed re-entry but your smartphone may not be, seized for further inspection if you refuse to unlock it on request. If a foreign resident US Border agents may simply deny entry to you and send you away. Both are of course by your choice. 

Without probable cause, this is an illegal search, and nothing more than a fishing expedition. Challenge it. We only have a right to privacy if we fight for it.
Option 1: What smartphone? I don't own one.
Option 2: Forgot my password. Oops. My bad.
Option 3: Use a cheap burner when crossing international borders.
Option 4: If enough citizens say "go ahead, seize my phone, I'm not unlocking it even though there's nothing on it of value to you" it will completely bury them and stop this stupidity.

If this comes to pass, I'm writing a big fat check to the ACLU, putting my phone in my checked bag, and disabling the fingerprint activation. And no, I've got nothing to hide.

Come on people. I like Apple's privacy stance a lot, but we're talking about a smart thermostat here, not a jihad against all things Google. When my Nest thermostat starts putting targeted ads on the screen, it goes in the trash. Until then, I'm very happy with it. But as far as the smart speakers debate goes, yes, I'm wary, but my phone and computer both have microphones and cameras already, and Google apps are on these Apple devices.

The Cylinder has turned out to be another Cube. Overpriced and underpowered. I'd really like them to keep the Cylinder in the lineup as a mid-range option. Then the mini can be the bic lighter of Macs, with no expansion. The Cylinder can be the somewhat expandable middle of the road machine, and the new box can be the true Pro machine, with the greatest expandability.