cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/37718305
I was trying to think for a couple days on what can be done to make Linux phones a reality. Then I realized the EU is already pushing for more Open Source/ Linux to be made so why not make the most of it?
So if I may make a couple suggestions for Europe Linux enthusiasts and collectively all of us to push for:
1st. For EU and Europe to partner up with PostmarketOS, Mobian, Ubuntu Touch, and FSF Librephone Project to fund/produce/distribute open source repairable changable OS linux phones . Then for future tablets.
2nd. For EU and Europe to partner up with KDE, Framework, and Tuxedo Computers to fund/produce/distribute Laptops/Computers
Linux Community over there has so much ability to grow Linux if everyone there collectively gets it done. I humbly request you do that and I’ll do the same. Who should I call to get all this going as well? Want to help do this in a way that benefits all sides while keeping those projects independent
(I would have posted this on LinuxPhone but this community is way bigger and still open source related)
Really hoping all of you in and out of Europe and EU can push for it to be done.
“Help me, Obi-Wan Kenobi, You’re My Only Hope”
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The problem are not the distros, not even the phones itself. The problem is that these FOSS/privacy phone manufacturers don’t sell their stuff through local e-shops like Alza. This is what hurts their adoption. Yeah, they lose 30% (or whatever percentage they have in the contract with the store) but this will recoup itself in the long run.
This is doing business 101. Don’t think short term, think long term.
I agree with you, but for Linux-based mobile phones to advance, pressure would need to be put on large financial institutions and instant messaging companies to allow their applications to run outside the Android ecosystem. Regarding the brands you have chosen, I think it is also important to directly support EU-based companies such as SUSE, which focus on open source and support Linux development projects such as openSUSE. As for hardware companies, there are several that specialise in distributing hardware optimised for Linux, such as Slimbook and Tuxedo, but I believe it is more important to support companies that focus their business on the development of FOSS code than companies whose business is to distribute hardware manufactured outside the EU.
Yeah I feel like this is an even bigger issue. Phones are basically a hardware ID card. Companies and (EU) governments use phones as a way to run “hard to tamper with” kind of software — banking apps, digital transport ticket, etc.
This kind of software is not compatible with Software Freedom, so if we want Linux phones, we first need regulation to get rid of this toxic software. Such regulation should allow the use of cryptographic keys (example) in place of crappy Android apps for things that are basically mandatory to live in current society (have a place where to store money, being able to travel, etc.). EU Linux phone can come after.
No worries, great points you listed and definitely good angles on how to tackle it. Definitely will need a wide range of solutions done in tandem and those are definitely up there as well
