Zeromac
Project Overview
ZeroMac is a cloud hosting service for Mac virtual machines (VMs), offering hourly-based pricing for Mac computing resources. The creator is exploring two potential service expansions:
- A lower-priced tier with overcommitted servers
- A Storage Area Network (SAN) solution that would separate compute and storage pricing, enabling custom disk image deployments
Community Insights
Community discussion focused on two primary concerns:
- Apple’s potential legal stance on Mac VM hosting
- Technical feasibility of the service, including software installation and performance
Participants noted that similar services exist, suggesting Apple may be relatively lenient about Mac VM hosting. However, questions remained about OS licensing implications.
Technical Considerations
Potential users inquired about:
- VM software installation capabilities
- Performance metrics (e.g., mouse movement latency)
- Whether machines are dedicated or shared
The creator seems open to iterative service improvements, demonstrating a flexible approach to addressing market needs and technical constraints.
Business Model Observations
The creator candidly acknowledged that margins for this type of service are not as lucrative as traditional software startups, indicating a niche but potentially innovative cloud computing offering.