So this fellow (#Medium article via scribe.rip) explains why they won't buy a #Samsung again..
https://scribe.rip/why-i-will-never-by-another-samsung-device-2237a40002a6
But the HN discussion top comment, gives a much more important reason why you should avoid that crap:
"They spy on you mercilessly, up to about the same level as #Facebook."
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=30423815
Samsung is #SurveillanceCapitalism to-the-max, and #Privacy through-the-drain crapware from hell. (Pardon my nuanced opinion).
@humanetech Almost all Android devices, regardless of manufacturer, obtained through the usual retailers are a #SurveillanceCapitalism out of the box experience.
The foldable phones don't appeal to me. Despite the claims, I expect that the fold will become brittle and break. But manufacturers only really want the hardware to last a couple of years and then its on to the next new shiny model. But the more conventional clam shell or keyboard phone designs would be nice to try.
> Almost all Android devices, regardless of manufacturer, obtained through the usual retailers are a #SurveillanceCapitalism out of the box experience.
I expect that is true. But I need a new phone, and want at least a replaceable battery and also need wifi calling (we have no cell signal).
I'm attracted to the newer open-hardware phones but have not researched them enuf yet.
A phone that makes phone calls? hmmm.
But seriously, Whenever I think, or read "I need a new phone" I want to ask why, and you mention calls, albeit specifically wifi calls. What else?
@keith
I have a moto x pure edition that I bought from https://republicwireless.com/ where I also get service.
The battery is so weak I can't use the phone unless it is connected to the charger. The back is delaminating. The battery is not replaceable by me.
And as I mentioned, I have no cell signal where I live.
@bhaugen @bob @humanetech
Wow. Republic Wireless seems quite pricey, by my standards anyway.
I imagine it works well, but if you hardly ever use the cell towers, that's a lot to pay for a SIP phone!
@keith
I pay $15 a month. Works very well, both on wifi or cell signal.
Got any better suggestions? I'm open to change. Republic is what a bunch of friends use, but they are changing their terms with new plans.
@keith
P.S. I might not have understood one of your comments. Does SIP phone mean wifi calls only? No cell service?
Republic phones do both. They use wifi when available and a cell network (if available) when no wifi.
We use it on cell networks when we are not at home. Our home location is the place with no cell service at all.
@keith
Thanks for the info and tips. I was a very late comer to "smart phones" and don't understand them very well.
@keith
I think their new plans have higher prices. If I can keep my old phone alive, I can stay on my current plan.
Otherwise I am looking around.