Destination Linux Episode 150: Librem 5, Zorin OS, Private Internet Access, UBports, Fedora, Bitwarden - Destination Linux 150
Dec 5, 2019
Privacy-focused phone hardware, shipment problems, and realistic expectations for secure devices. A controversy over Zorin OS telemetry and how distributions handle anonymous IDs. Concerns about a VPN service acquisition and alternatives. Debate about app store banners for proprietary software in Fedora and GNOME Software. A Linux handheld revival and an open-source password manager spotlight.
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Transparency Trumps Silence
- Zorin collected an anonymous machine UUID every 60 minutes without opt-out and triggered community pushback.
- Transparency and an upfront opt-out/opt-in choice during install prevents privacy backlash for distros.
Verify Telemetry With Developers
- When in doubt, ask developers directly about telemetry like Ryan did with Martin Wimpress to verify claims.
- Verify whether telemetry packages are enabled by default and whether IPs are logged before drawing conclusions.
Pi As A Mobile Dev Platform
- Running Ubuntu Touch on a Raspberry Pi creates a cheap, standard dev platform for mobile work.
- A Pi-based reference lowers barriers for contributors compared to hunting for old, varied phones.
