Topic: Ubuntu

Adam Curry describes his successful installation of Lubuntu on a Surface Go using VirtualBox. He praises the efficiency of Linux compared to Windows, which he claims is constantly bogged down by background "spyware" and data collection. He specifically recommends "Claws Mail" for its high level of customization.

To combat Windows 10's built-in advertising and telemetry, the hosts discuss the "O&O ShutUp10" tool, which allows users to disable dozens of spying features. They also recount the perennial frustration of trying to install Linux (specifically Ubuntu or Mint) on hardware like the Surface Go, citing BIOS issues and inconsistent installation instructions as major barriers to leaving the Microsoft ecosystem.

The conversation covers alternative operating systems like Samsung's Tizen and Ubuntu's mobile Linux efforts. Sculley expresses skepticism about new phone OSs but sees a need for specialized software for the Internet of Things (IoT). He mentions his involvement with Misfit, a company focused on low-power sensors and extending battery life for wearable technology.

A discussion regarding the difficulties of switching from Windows 8.1 to Linux Ubuntu 12.04 highlights persistent driver issues. While peripheral devices like wireless keyboards and mice worked immediately, failures with M-Audio drivers and Skype 4.2 interface issues on Linux are noted. The technical hurdles of dual-booting on a MacBook Air and the limitations of running Photoshop via Wine are also addressed.

Frustrations with Apple's forced software upgrades and UI changes, such as the removal of scroll bars, are discussed. One host reveals they have switched their MacBook Air to run Ubuntu Linux to regain control over the operating system. They also explore "Linaro," a Linux distribution for ARM devices, and the challenges of driver support for Wi-Fi on various Linux installs.

Inspired by an architect listener, the hosts discuss building the "Curry-Dvorak Library" using recycled shipping containers. They marvel at online images of luxury container homes and discuss the low cost of surplus containers. The segment briefly touches on Adam Curry's switch to Ubuntu Linux and his refusal to use "The GIMP" as a Photoshop alternative.

Google was recently awarded a patent for serving ads based on environmental conditions gathered through device sensors like microphones and cameras. Adam Curry discusses his move to Ubuntu and Thunderbird to improve privacy and performance, while John Dvorak remains skeptical of open-source design tools.

The hosts play clips of Congresswomen Doris Matsui and Marsha Blackburn struggling to understand technical concepts during cybersecurity hearings. They mock Senator Susan Collins for being "compelled" by a mock cyber attack simulation on New York City. Curry declares he has switched to Linux Ubuntu for better privacy.

Ian Schuller of the State Department admitted on C-SPAN that the "Internet in a Suitcase" was a meme created for a photographer rather than a literal piece of hardware. The $30 million project actually focuses on developing software to create local mesh networks using existing cell phones and routers. The hosts describe the technology as essentially "Ubuntu on a stick" and criticize the government for rebranding basic intranet technology as a revolutionary tool for dissidents.

The hosts conclude the episode by discussing a redesign of the show's blog and listener reactions to the new show notes format. John C. Dvorak mentions his intention to transition from DOS to Ubuntu Linux. Adam Curry signs off from London as the episode ends.

The hosts advocate for a return to command-line computing, criticizing the inefficiencies of modern graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for tasks like FTP and email. Discussion covers the use of Pine for Gmail, the benefits of Ubuntu, and the power of piping commands in Unix-based systems like OS X. They argue that reliance on GUIs has caused users to lose control over their hardware.

The Ubuntu 8.1 operating system is praised for its "live CD" functionality and user-friendly interface. In media news, Becky Worley's Nightline report on teenage text messaging addiction is discussed, featuring a girl who sent over 36,000 texts in one month. The evolution of communication habits among "star children" is contrasted with older generations.