This Isn't The Desktop Linux Victory We Wanted

Summary

The video discusses the growing adoption of Linux, particularly in Europe and among everyday consumers, driven by both digital sovereignty and the end of Windows 10 support. It highlights a rise in Linux usage, especially with handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck. Despite this, the video emphasizes that many Linux users still don't fully grasp the importance of free software. The video concludes with a call to preserve the foundational principles of open-source software to combat the influence of big tech corporations and ensure the long-term success of Linux and consumer freedom.

Takeaways

• 😀 Linux usage is on the rise globally, with significant increases in regions like the EU, Canada, and Japan.
• 😀 Despite the growth, this is not yet the 'year of the Linux desktop' as anticipated by many Linux enthusiasts.
• 😀 The rise in Linux adoption is largely driven by organizations transitioning to Linux for reasons like digital sovereignty, especially in Europe.
• 😀 The end of Windows 10 support is pushing organizations towards Linux, as Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, which is not supported by older hardware.
• 😀 Many businesses face increased liability risks and insurance premiums when continuing to use outdated operating systems or unsupported hardware.
• 😀 Linux gaming is growing, with platforms like Steam reporting a 25% increase in Linux users, partly due to Linux-powered handheld consoles like the Steam Deck.
• 😀 Handheld gaming consoles running Linux (e.g., Steam Deck) offer better performance and battery life than their Windows counterparts.
• 😀 Linux adoption is also driven by cost savings for manufacturers, as Linux doesn't require the purchase of software licenses like Windows does.
• 😀 Statistics from sources like Pornhub show a surprising 41% increase in Linux usage, which could be attributed to the rise of Linux-powered smart TVs and other devices.
• 😀 Despite more people using Linux, many still don’t understand the principles of free software, which is essential for the Linux community's long-term success.
• 😀 The key to Linux's future is not just market growth, but understanding and upholding the values of freedom and open-source software that underpin it.

Q & A

What is the main reason for the rise in Linux usage in Europe?

The rise in Linux usage in Europe is largely due to organizations, particularly government departments, transitioning to Linux-based workflows for the purpose of digital sovereignty. This shift is also influenced by the end of Windows 10 support.

What significant statistic does Stack Counter provide regarding Linux usage in the United States?

Stack Counter reports that Linux usage in the United States has reached an all-time high of 5.03%, showing a 40% increase compared to the previous year.

Why are older systems still capable of running Windows 10 but not Windows 11?

Older systems are capable of running Windows 10 due to their hardware specifications, but Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, which is not supported on older systems. This TPM requirement restricts older systems from upgrading to Windows 11.

How does TPM 2.0 affect organizations using outdated hardware?

Organizations using outdated hardware without TPM 2.0 may face increased liability and higher insurance premiums. This is because TPM 2.0 is considered necessary for security, and using an outdated module can lead to concerns about data breaches.

What does the Steam hardware and software survey reveal about Linux gaming usage?

According to the Steam hardware and software survey for June 2025, 2.57% of users are playing games on Linux, with a significant increase of about 25% over the previous year. This growth is partly attributed to the popularity of handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck.

Why do handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck run Linux instead of Windows?

Handheld gaming consoles like the Steam Deck run Linux because it offers better performance and battery life compared to Windows 11 on the same hardware. Additionally, manufacturers save on licensing costs by using Linux instead of purchasing Windows licenses.

How has Linux usage been impacted by smart TVs and other consumer electronics?

Linux usage has likely increased due to the widespread use of Linux or Android-based operating systems in smart TVs and other consumer electronics. These systems offer better performance and lower production costs compared to alternatives like Apple's software.

What was the surprising statistic from Pornhub’s year-end review about Linux usage?

Pornhub’s year-end review reported a 41% increase in Linux usage. While this statistic should be taken with caution, it might reflect increased usage from smart TVs or gaming consoles like the Steam Deck.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of free software in the Linux ecosystem?

The speaker emphasizes free software because it grants users more control over their technology and prevents arbitrary limitations imposed by corporations. The goal is to help people realize the value of digital sovereignty and freedom from corporate control.

What problem does the speaker identify with open-source projects being adopted by unconscious consumers?

The speaker warns that open-source projects can be infiltrated or subverted, particularly by corporations like Microsoft. The problem arises when consumers use open-source software without fully understanding or adhering to the principles of freedom and control that originally inspired these projects.