ubuntu-eee-coders team mailing list archive

[JRocket <johnstevenson1970@xxxxxxxxx>]

I find it very strange to define as a bug the inclusion of one piece of
software over another, unless that application is functionally flawed.
If you really take objection to the default packages installed, you are
free to change them or use an alternative distribution.

If you have a better suggestion for an alternative package, then you
should at least make the basic case for why the distribution owner
should make a change.  There are many non-free packages in Ubuntu and
Debian, some of which are the default such as graphics drivers.

You mentioned some "what if" problems with Skype.  Are this actual
problems?  I would find that strange as by default the Asus EEE Pc ships
with Skype by default.

As Skype is default on this netbook already, then many users would
actually be looking for this application on any alternative
distribution.  If you want users to change there application, it would
be better to make a case for the alternative, rather than say Skype
should not be the default.  If you don't make a case for the
alternative, people will just install Skype and remove the other
application they have not heard of.

Are there any other pieces of software that you have an object too.  You
seem to have neglected to mention which packages you would like the
distribution owner to reconsider.

If the people behind Ubuntu-eee want to have a specific set of packages
then they are free to do so.  I am very please with all the huge amount
of work they have put in.  If I have useful suggestions to make, then I
will try and make my case as a feature request.

If you really want to encourage people to only use free software with
their Asus EEE, then you are free to release your own distribution,
rather than trying to place restrictions on this particular
distribution.

In the end, the owners of the ubuntu-eee distribution are free to
distribute any software in there distribution where the license allows.

-- 
do not replace free software with non-fre software
https://bugs.launchpad.net/bugs/264959
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Status in Ubuntu Eee: New

Bug description:
On your web site, you state:

"It's an operating system based upon open source software, but also providing some proprietary alternatives (e.g. Skype instead of Ekiga). Sounds great!" -- http://www.ubuntu-eee.com/index.php5?title=Main_Page

This is not a feature, it is a bug. By providing proprietary alternatives, you are encouraging people to use them instead of the free software equivalents, which is bad for users, both in the short term and long term.

Please do not ship non-free applications by default.