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What even is an OS now?

Article URL: https://sockpuppet.org/blog/2026/09/25/what-even-is-an-os-now/ Comments URL: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=49850305 Points: 203 # Comments: 285

The impact of AI on computing has yet to be fully understood. The author, who recently left Fly.io to collaborate on a new project with Kurt, reflects on their personal experience with computers since childhood. Initially, computers were basic devices that ran BASIC, but as the author grew older, they delved into programming and found the complexity of building applications daunting.

However, the rise of AI has brought about a significant shift in how computing works, blurring the lines between backend and frontend programming, web and native applications, and even between programmers and users. The author argues that AI is dismantling a crucial boundary: the one between programmers and users. This transformation raises questions about the future of computing, as applications increasingly cater to individual needs and become more customizable.

The author envisions a world where users can create programs tailored to their specific requirements, rather than relying on pre-built, fixed-function applications. This shift will have far-reaching implications for operating systems, software distribution, and the very nature of computing devices.

Written by urgent.news from Hacker News Best's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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