Docker-OSX Shut Down: Apple’s Copyright Claim Impacts macOS Containers
An open-source project on GitHub called Docker-OSX allows users to effortlessly run Apple’s OSX and macOS systems through containers, a method akin to virtual machines but significantly more convenient than using VMware Workstation.
On August 26th, users began to notice issues when attempting to pull images through Docker, encountering errors stating that the repository does not exist or requires login credentials. These errors affected both older versions and newer images like macOS Sonoma, leading to failed downloads.
The developer, @sickcodes, responded to an issue thread, revealing that Apple had filed a complaint with Docker Hub regarding the Docker-OSX repository, alleging copyright infringement. As a result, Docker Hub has temporarily acted on this repository.
“Apple reported the Docker-OSX repository to Docker Hub saying that it violated Apple copyright and Docker Hub moderated the repository. Will update later today when I have more information and next steps,” Sickcodes added.
The developer has yet to receive further information from Docker Hub, but given Apple’s formal complaint, it is almost certain that this repository will be taken down, as Apple undeniably holds the copyright to OSX and macOS systems, and Docker Hub is obligated to respond to such complaints.
What remains curious is why Apple chose to file this complaint now. Hackintosh has been prevalent for many years, and the Docker-OSX project has been around for quite some time as well. Given that such a project likely does not have a vast user base, one might have expected Apple to turn a blind eye, yet their decision to initiate a copyright claim at this juncture leaves one pondering their intentions.
