On software freedom, bootloader access, end-of-support accessibility

On software freedom, bootloader access, end-of-support accessibility

To the software industry:


Purchasing a smartphone should provide real ownership and control over the systematic domination of the software providers.
After the end of support phase manufacturers should bound to bootloader unlocking, alternative operating systems, and farmwares etc.

Our demands:

1. User-friendly bootloader  policy-
Users should provide a free, documented, and reasonably accessible bootloader-unlocking method for devices that have reached the end of official software support.
Users should receive clear warnings about the risks, including reduced security, potential data loss, and loss of official support.

2. Freedom to install alternative operating systems-
Users should be able to choose software that better suits their needs, whether that means improved privacy, longer device life, better performance, accessibility, or a different user experience.

3. Transparency about background software-
Manufacturers and operating-system providers should clearly disclose:

- What system services run in the background.

- What data is collected.

- Why that data is collected.

- Where the data is sent.

- How long it is retained.

- Which services can be disabled.

- Which services are essential for device operation.


4. Meaningful privacy controls

Users should have meaningful options to disable non-essential telemetry and data collection, without unnecessary loss of basic device functionality.


On the whole, by creating a healthier relationship between companies and their customers:

- Developers can focus on making better software instead of relying on artificial restrictions to keep users from leaving.

- Manufacturers are encouraged to improve quality, because users have more freedom to choose alternatives when a product no longer meets their needs.

- Competition becomes more meaningful, as companies must earn user loyalty through the quality of their products and services.

- Independent developers can contribute, creating alternative operating systems, security improvements, accessibility solutions, and new ways to extend device life.

- Devices can remain useful for longer, reducing unnecessary electronic waste and making hardware ownership more sustainable.

This does not mean manufacturers should be required to support every alternative operating system or provide unlimited technical assistance. It means they should not unnecessarily prevent users from making their own choices after purchasing the hardware.
If a manufacturer's software is genuinely good, users should have a reason to stay because they want to, not because they are technically prevented from leaving.
We recognize that unrestricted modification can create security and support risks. However, those risks can be addressed through warnings, opt-in unlocking procedures, clear documentation, and user responsibility.

Software freedom can also encourage innovation. Independent developers and communities should be able to experiment with ways to improve, maintain, and extend the useful life of devices without unnecessary interference.

End-of-support should not mean end-of-ownership.
We ask manufacturers and policymakers to support a future in which people can repair, maintain, modify, and understand the devices they purchase.
A device should remain the user's device—even after the manufacturer moves on.