I'm very happy to see how my 3-year journey replacing big tech with privacy-oriented, humane platforms is shaping:
Gmail: Tuta and Proton
Google Calendar: Fossify
Google Maps: Organic Maps
Twitter: Mastodon
Facebook, Instagram: Pixelfed
WhatsApp, Telegram: Signal
Android: GrapheneOS
Windows: Linux Mint
It was overwhelming, it took time and research. But I can tell you that another digital experience is possible.
Now I'm thrilled to have devices that belong to ME, like in the old days.
@linguistgoneforeign .
I've read the responses here with great interest because I have been doing the same here. I just can't pay $149 for an OS and oh by the way I don't own it and all of your data on your machine is mine!
Linux Mint is awesome, both Ubuntu and LDME versions.
Email: Betterbird
Browser: Waterfox or Librewolf
Search: StartPage but I'm looking since I saw Ed Snowden's endorsement.
Social Media: Mastodon, not perfect but hands above the rest. Much worth my time!
I really do feel liberated but my eyes are always open!! Best of luck to all. I see smart choices here.
Thanks for the recommendations, I will take a look at the browsers.
I'm not quite sure what you mean by the 149 USD for an OS. GrapheneOS and Linux are free.
@linguistgoneforeign Ling ... $149 is the price that Microsoft charges for the Pro version of their Windows OS. Mind you that is actually a "lease" not a purchase. They retain all legal rights to access your computer remotely and take whatever data they wish!
.. and yes, I fail to understand how any of the Linux distros can be downloaded and used for FREE! Linux Mint is so awesome and they are producing it without a big building and a staff of thousands. What a bargain!
MICROSOFT HEADQUARTERS - REDMOND WASHINGTON!
Linguist Gone Foreign 🌏
Waldorf