I didn't see it before...It took you saying it...and it hit me..

Considering Replicant appears to work fine on the gta04 board and the neo900 board is a variant of the gta04 board so Replicant should work too.

I don't think maemo would be set back by default replicant preinstalled any more than debian preinstalled...Everyone in the community who is rooting for the neo900 release is aware and waiting for the release of "free-mantle" as the important step toward integration of machine and os....and that may be post neo900 1st run device deployment....

BUT! There is a HUGE advantage to be made at this time.

Just my suggestion here....butttttt....
DON'T release the device with Debian pre-installed (if not possible...then at least NOT JUST debian)

Flog the advertising of the neo900 coming preinstalled with Replicant...

The number of potential buyers will only shoot upward...it is simply the numbers.

Appealing initially only to people who understand debian...and those who know maemo makes for a small minority of the potential sales which could be achieved.

The average...(or above average...even exceptional) consumer...who is interested or curious in trying something different hardware wise will take a chance ...
but os - wise will probably not if the unfamiliar hardware comes with unfamiliar os install instructions ....
AND an os they are unfamiliar with (debian or even free-mantle maemo oriented..if it ever came preinstalled..or even with goof-proof instructions) .

For most consumers it's about familiarity...ease of use...and simplicity.

When people shop for a smartphone...they buy it ...turn it on...and use it....immediately...they don't normally have to install ....or even think about an os instruction booklet...they just hit the power button.

I think offering the debian operating system preinstalled will not be a lure for the buyer who wants to change brand loyalty to us...nor the noob we could have sold to. New buyers...New blood...new learning curve for alot of people...making it easier for them would certainly help. ....Them and Us.


The number of Android users is HUGE!
And Replicant is something they can easily UNDERSTAND and KNOW!!!
The additional options of alternate os's (debian, arch, free-mantle, etc...) is just icing on the cake ...A great way of introducing new people to the os's we love...eeeeaaaaseee them into it.

It is only a win.

Android has been tearing away marketshare from Windowsphones and BB's and Iphone for YEARS.
Now HERE is a HUGE opportunity to tear away some of Android's marketshare.

It's only a win.