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
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.