• Author and Context: By Ploum on 2025-03-08. Previously in "20 years of Linux on the Desktop", Ploum realized Ubuntu was drifting.
• The New Mobile Paradigm: While focused on Ubuntu, Maemo emerged as a GNOME+Debian product shaking the free software world. Mobile phones were new, doing calls and SMS. Small pocket computers with limited software like WinCE and Symbian existed.
• N770, the Precursor: In 2005, Nokia quietly launched the N770 with a wide screen and a Debian system based on GNOME. It was developed by small European companies. During FOSDEM 2005, Ploum borrowed a prototype and bought one. It was a hit but had flaws like needing wifi and difficult software installation.
• The Nokia (un)management guide to failure: Development of Maemo successors stalled. Nokia took two years to release the N800 and N810 with no core issues addressed. The iPhone appeared, combining phone and iPod. The iPhone 1 was a marketing success but had limitations compared to the N770.
• Another Linux on your mobile: In 2008, Google launched Android using a Linux system for cameras. Apple introduced the App Store. In 2009, Nokia launched the N900 with an app store but was too late.
• When failing is not enough, dig deeper: In 2010, Nokia launched Meego, replacing Debian and GNOME with RPMs and Qt. Two years later, Tizen was launched. Nokia's management decisions led to being two years late and hiding products.
• The emotional roller coster: In 2006, Ploum was certain of free software's success. But five years later, the outlook was darker with Apple becoming more proprietary and Ubuntu drifting. Ploum is writing a book and looking for an agent or publisher. He also writes science-fiction novels and is looking for contacts to distribute his new post-apocalyptic-cyclist book.