Linux Mint drops Ubuntu Snap packages (lwn.net)

Article summary

The Linux Mint project has decided to prevent Ubuntu Snap packages from being installed through the APT package-management system without user consent. This move is due to concerns over user choice and software freedom. Ubuntu's parent company, Canonical, is open to finding a solution, but has its own interests to consider. The issue arose when Ubuntu started distributing software in parallel to APT using Snap, a self-contained package-deployment system.

Main themes

• Snap packages
• Software freedom
• User choice
• Package management
• Linux distributions
• Canonical's strategy

What commenters say

• Some argue that Canonical's decision to use Snap packages is a gross abuse of power and undermines user choice.
• Others believe that Snap packages provide a convenient way to install and update software, but the implementation has significant drawbacks.
• The use of Snap packages is seen as a threat to software freedom and the open-source community.
• Some commenters suggest that Linux Mint should use alternative package managers, such as Flatpak, or build their own packages from Debian source code.
• There are concerns about the security and stability of Snap packages, particularly with regards to auto-updates and sandboxing.
• The decision to use Snap packages is viewed as a strategic move by Canonical to control Linux software distribution.
• Some users are considering switching to alternative Linux distributions, such as Pop!_OS, due to the Snap package issue.