This Hacker News thread discusses the implications of ZeroRISC's $10M funding and the increasing prevalence of open-source silicon, particularly in security applications. A key concern raised is whether "open" silicon truly empowers users, or if it simply provides transparency into systems that still restrict user control, using the example of a McDonald's app refusing to run on "untrustworthy" devices. The definition of "open" is also debated, with some arguing it has become diluted, moving away from its historical association with industry standards. The thread highlights the potential for open-source silicon and firmware Roots of Trust (RoT) to enhance device security and user control, referencing projects like OpenTitan (earl grey) for Chromebooks and Caliptra for servers. These open RoTs aim to provide identity, measured boot, and attestation capabilities. It is also mentioned that Microsoft's CHERIoT-Ibex design has open-source components. The discussion ends with a question about the nature of "open silicon," clarifying that it refers to open-source designs and libraries, aiming to encourage security research without legal repercussions. The hope is that commercial products incorporating open silicon will embrace open security research, possibly through bug bounty programs.