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When we consider the realm of Android-based operating systems, two names that often come up are DivestOS and LineageOS. Both operating systems offer unique advantages and have distinct focuses. However, understanding the core differences between them can help users make an informed choice about which system best aligns with their needs.

What is DivestOS?

DivestOS is a free operating system based on the Android mobile platform. It's essentially a soft fork of LineageOS and has a specific focus on enhancing user security and privacy while also supporting older devices. The operating system removes as many proprietary Android components as possible, striving to include only free software. It's also important to note that DivestOS builds are signed with release keys, allowing bootloaders to be re-locked on many devices.

DivestOS offers a wide array of key features:

Monthly security updates for all supported devices, and an automated patch checker for Linux kernel security issues. Support for bootloader relocking, which has been tested and found to work on several devices.

The inclusion of the Mulch hardened Chromium WebView, which provides enhanced security features and can be updated independently of the system image.

A powerful tracker blocker that blocks over 900,000 advertising and tracking servers, increasing the privacy level for users. A privacy-oriented browser (Mull), based on Mozilla technology, hardened against fingerprinting techniques thanks to the Tor uplift project and arkenfox-user.js project.

A focus on Free and Open-Source Software (FOSS). Inclusion of F-Droid, an app catalog specializing in the delivery of FOSS apps.

Additional tools like a free space eraser (Extirpater) and an open-source real-time malware scanner (Hypatia) for Android. What is LineageOS?

LineageOS is also an Android-based operating system, designed for smartphones, tablet computers, and set-top boxes. It primarily consists of free and open-source software and is known as the successor to CyanogenMod, which was discontinued in December 2016.

Key Difference

While both DivestOS and LineageOS are based on Android and include free and open-source software, their focuses diverge significantly in terms of security and privacy.

DivestOS' main objective is to maximize user privacy and security, with features like tracker blocking and malware scanning. The operating system also removes as many proprietary Android components as possible, and the bootloader can be re-locked on many devices.

In contrast, LineageOS, while also offering open-source software, doesn't have as much emphasis on these security features. This can potentially introduce additional attack surfaces, particularly through breaking verified boot and userdebug builds.

In terms of privacy, DivestOS takes a stand against using microG, a lightweight implementation of Google Play Services. The argument is that using microG still communicates with Google's servers and can compromise user privacy. On the other hand, LineageOS doesn't have this strict stance against microG.

In conclusion, the choice between DivestOS and LineageOS depends on your specific needs. If privacy and security are your top priorities, DivestOS might be a better choice. On the other hand, LineageOS might be suitable if you're looking for an open-source Android-based OS with a broader device support.

References:

Wikipedia. (2023). DivestOS. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DivestOS. Wikipedia. (2023). LineageOS. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LineageOS. Reddit. (2023). DivestOS vs LineageOS vs /e/. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/PrivacyGuides/comments/r7gnso/divestos_vs_lineageos_vs_e/ DivestOS Mobile. (2023). Home. Retrieved from https://divestos.org/index.html

Volla is a company that focuses on giving users control over their digital life, particularly in terms of their data and time spent in the digital world. Their primary product is the Volla Phone, the most recent model of which is the Volla Phone X23. The company aims to offer a smartphone that prioritizes privacy and simplicity, with a streamlined user interface and an emphasis on security.

The Volla Phone X23

The Volla Phone X23 is a ruggedized smartphone meeting military standard MIL-STD-810H. It's IP68 dust and waterproof, with a replaceable battery, ensuring durability and resilience in various conditions. The phone includes an optional Volla OS and Ubuntu Touch, enabling users to decide their preferred operating system. The phone also has a 48 MP + 8 MP wide-angle main camera, an illuminated ring around the camera for notifications, 6 + 128 GB of internal storage (expandable by 1TB SD card), and an extra button for additional functions​​.

Volla OS: A New Kind of Operating System

The Volla OS is a minimalistic operating system with an innovative concept. Its features include the Springboard, a smart text field that allows users to start calls, send messages, and more. It also includes Collections, a feature grouping your most recently exchanged text and picture messages and your latest news, among other things. One of the standout features of the Volla OS 12 is its speech recognition. Using open-source artificial intelligence, users can speak to their smartphone to write messages and notes or invoke commands, all with no connection to the cloud for privacy protection​.

Volla OS is based on a free Android without Google and play services and without dependence on a cloud. It replaces basic apps like those for phone calls and the address book with curated apps that are also open source. The system also includes optional VPN for additional privacy protection​​.

Ubuntu Touch: An Alternative Mobile Linux

For those interested in a different approach, Volla also offers Ubuntu Touch, a puristic mobile Linux solution. This OS features a sidebar for quick access to important apps, compartments for open apps, and a terminal for full control and freedom​.

Multi-Boot Function

One unique feature of the Volla Phone 22 with Volla OS is its pre-installed Multi Boot function. This feature allows users to install additional operating systems on a memory card, enabling them to select Ubuntu Touch for startup, for instance. This is ideal for separating private and business use or for trying out something new​​.

Community and Delivery Update

Volla recognizes the importance of a community in creating alternatives to market-leading systems. Their community includes young and established companies, foundations, and individual users​.

As of June 2, 2023, Volla has completed mass production of the first batch of Volla Phone X23s, covering all pre-orders. They expect to dispatch these phones worldwide via their logistics center in Wuppertal, Germany, within the next week​​.

Final Thoughts

Volla stands out in its commitment to user freedom, both in terms of data privacy and time spent in the digital world. The Volla Phone X23, with its robust features and security focus, is a notable example of this commitment. Whether through its Volla OS or the alternative Ubuntu Touch, users can enjoy a unique, privacy-centered smartphone experience.

For more information, please visit the official Volla website:

https://volla.online/en/index.html

The richness of African culture is expansive and diverse, with the griot embodying a significant part of this cultural tradition. The griot, also known as a jeli or jali in some West African cultures, is a crucial part of the social fabric, carrying out a unique role in society that is as old as the societies themselves.

What is a Griot?

The griot is a traditional storyteller, oral historian, singer, musician, and advisor in West African societies. This role is often hereditary, passed down through generations in specific families. The term griot is French, derived from the Portuguese 'criado,' which means servant. The local terms jeli or jali translate to “blood” in the Manding language, signifying the deep connection that these individuals have with their communities and histories.

The Role and Responsibilities of a Griot

The responsibilities of a griot are manifold and deeply interwoven with the fabric of society. The griot acts as a living archive, preserving and recounting the histories, genealogies, and legends of their people. This preservation is not only of the past but also the present, as the griot continually updates the cultural record with contemporary events and narratives.

The griot is also a musician and a performer. Using instruments such as the kora (a 21-string lute-bridge-harp) or the balafon (a kind of wooden xylophone), griots provide musical accompaniment to their narratives, enhancing the emotional impact and memorability of their tales.

Moreover, the griot plays a crucial role as a social mediator. They may deliver praise or criticism, offer advice, and serve as an intermediary in disputes. In essence, the griot is a vital link between the past, present, and future, serving as the community's memory and conscience.

The Importance of the Griot

In societies where oral tradition is the primary means of preserving history and communicating wisdom, the role of the griot cannot be overstated. The griot is not only a preserver of history but also a creator of social cohesion and a guide for moral conduct.

Through their tales, the griot fosters a shared sense of identity and continuity among the community, bridging the gap between generations and reinforcing the collective memory. The narratives they share serve as moral compasses, providing lessons on cultural values and acceptable behavior.

The griot also holds an important place in community events and ceremonies. Their performances are not just entertainment, but a way of marking and celebrating life's milestones and communal events.

The Griot in Modern Times

The griot tradition continues to evolve in the modern world. Today, griots use radio, television, and digital media to reach their audiences. The transition to these platforms has allowed them to continue their role as cultural custodians while adapting to the changing times.

In conclusion, the griot is a central figure in West African societies, serving as a living testament to the power of oral tradition. They are storytellers, historians, musicians, advisors, and cultural ambassadors, performing a role that is as essential today as it was in the past. Their stories and songs continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring importance of heritage, community, and the shared human experience.

Further reading: https://wikiless.org/wiki/Griot?lang=en

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