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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).
Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.
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The problem are not the distros, not even the phones itself. The problem is that these FOSS/privacy phone manufacturers don't sell their stuff through local e-shops like Alza. This is what hurts their adoption. Yeah, they lose 30% (or whatever percentage they have in the contract with the store) but this will recoup itself in the long run.
This is doing business 101. Don't think short term, think long term.
I agree with you, but for Linux-based mobile phones to advance, pressure would need to be put on large financial institutions and instant messaging companies to allow their applications to run outside the Android ecosystem. Regarding the brands you have chosen, I think it is also important to directly support EU-based companies such as SUSE, which focus on open source and support Linux development projects such as openSUSE. As for hardware companies, there are several that specialise in distributing hardware optimised for Linux, such as Slimbook and Tuxedo, but I believe it is more important to support companies that focus their business on the development of FOSS code than companies whose business is to distribute hardware manufactured outside the EU.
Yeah I feel like this is an even bigger issue. Phones are basically a hardware ID card. Companies and (EU) governments use phones as a way to run "hard to tamper with" kind of software
banking apps, digital transport ticket, etc.
This kind of software is not compatible with Software Freedom, so if we want Linux phones, we first need regulation to get rid of this toxic software. Such regulation should allow the use of cryptographic keys (example) in place of crappy Android apps for things that are basically mandatory to live in current society (have a place where to store money, being able to travel, etc.). EU Linux phone can come after.
No worries, great points you listed and definitely good angles on how to tackle it. Definitely will need a wide range of solutions done in tandem and those are definitely up there as well