Okay, this is one for my @SDF folks.
I've become more and more persuaded by the #FOSS movement because I am SICK of not actually owning the devices I buy.
So please just tell me, a somewhat tech savvy novice (I don't know that much about software, but I am quick on the uptake and do my own research) that it's a good idea to switch to using #Linux.
I have imposter syndrome that says if I'm not a developer or tech person, I shouldn't be allowed. Tell me I'm wrong.
I *am* willing to deal with some inconvenience for the sake of freedom for my devices, so effort involved with initial setup, a learning curve, and possibly not being able to use all the same applications I have now are not a deterrent.
I mean...I just spent an entire day trying to get my fitness band to pair with the open-source app Gadgetbridge, and it's NOT Gadgetbridge I blame for that headache. The problem is the company that has decided they want access to my phone for the device to work.
I actually had a laptop that ran on some version of Linux in highschool. It was a bit like a Chromebook: super lightweight and great for sort of basic use, so I know that there are user-friendly options, and it's not just for computer-geniuses.
But I still am like..."I don't know...maybe it's not for me" for no good reason whatsoever.
Assume a very basic level of technical knowledge: not scared of learning and quick at figuring things out. I was the unofficial IT person at my old job, because I was able to solve problems if I had to (thanks to internet research) and wasn't afraid to tinker just a bit, but I'm not knowledgeable about things like installing a different OS on my computer and all that.
What advice do you have for my future adventures in open-source software?
Oh...related question. Can anyone tell me about #LineageOS or other #AndroidROMs that could free me from Google?
Thank you! As much as anything, I mostly want to know that I am using trusted sources. Having recommendations from folks here makes me feel a lot braver about experimenting.
I mean, I don't think there's any possible 100% guarantee that I won't mess something up, but having confidence in the tools is the important part to me.
If I brick my phone I want it to be because *I* did something stupid and not because I was foolishly trusting something I shouldn't.
Sarah
Parade du Grotesque 💀
Kurt
pavi