I think when more backers get their phone and have a chance to play with it, it will become obvious that it has all been worth it and that the developers and Purism have achieved something astounding.
Here’s a short summary of my impressions after two weeks of using the L5-Evergreen.
The best things about it:
- It’s GNU/Linux!
- It’s a computer.
- It’s private and secure.
- It potentially has thousands of applications to draw from.
- It will always get updates. (Or write your own.)
- It’s user-serviceable.
- It’s not “disposable” hardware.
- Any bug fixes and refinements will be dealt with quickly.
- Its FOSS software will improve at a rapid pace.
- It has a ready-built support network (Purism plus community at large).
- Most of the basic apps work now.
- I have control; I can make it do new things.
What could be better:
- Call quality needs improvement.
- VoLTE absolutely must be implemented ASAP.
- Suspend is needed.
- Photography needs to be enabled.
- Maps & navigation are required.
- Battery life still needs improvement.
- Charging duration could be shortened.
- Your must-have proprietary apps may not ever get ported.
- phosh crashes happen every now and then.
- A more internationally-applicable modem would be nice.
- Thickness/heaviness take some getting used to.
Conclusion
Would I buy the Librem 5 again? Absolutely.
Will I use it as my main phone (assuming it gets VoLTE)? Yes, eventually. Soon, hopefully.
Do I wish it weren’t so thick? Definitely.
Would I hesitate to buy the next or a later version from Purism? No, assuming I need a new device or if that device is significantly different and better.
Was it worth the price? Without a doubt. I realize the price has increased, so the buyer will have to decide whether it’s worth it to them. I typically buy somewhat expensive phones anyway, so not a big deal to me. And with many improvements and new features in the pipeline, it’s only going to get better and better.
Edit: to add “GNU/” to “Linux.”