*Please consider adding to your address book, which will ensure that our messages reach you and not your spam box.*
*Read and share online: *
Welcome to the *Free Software Supporter*, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 232,663 other activists.
## TABLE OF CONTENTS
* June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch * Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets! * No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License! * Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps * Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket * Why console makers can legally brick your game console * Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits * "End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux * May GNU Emacs news * Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory * LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops * May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more! * FSF and other free software events * Thank GNUs! * GNU copyright contributions * Translations of the *Free Software Supporter* * Take action with the FSF!
View this issue online here:
Encourage your friends to subscribe and help us build an audience by adding our subscriber widget to your website.
* Subscribe: * Widget:
Miss an issue? You can catch up on back issues at .
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the *Supporter* in French or Spanish.
***
### June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Every month during our fortieth anniversary year, we're inviting free software supporters everywhere to join us in celebrating #FSF40. For this month's challenge, [make the switch][1] yourself or help someone else start using a [free software program][2]. For instance, instead of Zoom or FaceTime, give Jistsi or another [free videoconferencing software][3] a try. No matter if you want to make a [big or small change][4], there's probably a program in the [Free Software Directory][5] that meets your needs. Already use only free software? Great job! That's no small feat. Maybe you can [help someone else][6] get started using a free program. If you can't take part in this #FSF40Challenge, fear not — we've got six more coming.
Have an idea for a challenge? Send us a message at !
### Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
*By Mission:Libre*
Over a decade ago, Atheros released the ath9k suite of Linux kernel drivers, which were the first free Wi-Fi drivers for the Linux kernel. Atheros' work made it possible for GNU/Linux users to connect to Wi-Fi without having to use proprietary drivers or binary-only firmware. Unfortunately, as technology marches forward, the chipsets that were supported by free drivers have been discontinued, rendering the ath9k suite of Wi-Fi drivers obsolete. Today, there are no free Linux kernel drivers for contemporary Wi-Fi hardware. Tell Qualcomm, Inc. to release fully-free drivers for its in-production Wi-Fi chipsets, just as Atheros (Qualcomm's predecessor) did sixteen years ago.
* *
### No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
*From May 29 by Free Software Foundation Europe*
A majority of laptops being sold right now come with a controlling preinstalled Microsoft Windows operating system, with no easy way for users to opt-out. Not only is this a violation of user freedom, but it also financially costs the user who is stuck paying for a Windows license that they do not want. The new Refund4Freedom initiative aims to help users recover the cost of a Windows license when buying a new device and push for the end of this freedom-limiting practice. Read on to learn what you can do next time you or someone you know buys a new computer.
*
### Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps
*From May 28 by Tom Warren*
Microsoft users might be in for more update difficulties (and even less freedom) in the near future if many apps give way to Microsoft pressuring them to allow Microsoft to handle their updates. Whereas many free operating systems have had a unified app updater for years, Microsoft is once again trying to entice developers to put their updates in the Microsoft Store. It remains to be seen if developers will hand over updating responsibilities (and potentially control of updates) to Microsoft, but we recommend not waiting around to see if Microsoft will mishandle non-Microsoft app updates, too. If you or someone you know likes the sound of having all updates in one spot, consider upgrading to a free operating system.
* * *
### Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket
*From May 22 by Aisha Malik*
Mozilla announced that its read-it-later app, Pocket (which allows users to save articles, videos, and web pages for later offline reading without ads), will become abandonware on July 8, 2025. As with many such programs, if Pocket was a free software program, users would have the freedom to use it long after Mozilla decided to shut it down. Instead, users of Pocket will now be forced to switch to a similar read-it-later, loading as much as eighteen years of data (if used since it's original launch as Read-It-Later) to a new app. Unfortunately, this is an often seen, sad end-point for proprietary programs. We hope that Mozilla will pick up on its previous attempts to publish the source code. If you have been a Pocket user until now, consider switching to a freedom-respecting read-it-later app, such as Wallabag.
* *
### Why console makers can legally brick your game console
*From May 22 by Kyle Orland*
Nintendo is one of the largest perpetrators of console bricking (making a console permanently unusable in whole or in part), and they currently have the legal ability to do so. When a proprietor bricks your device and/or the software that makes it run, they are attempting to control you and limit your user rights. Users like you should have the right to do as you wish with your personal device, including modifying it to work for you. Tell your state and national representatives that you should have the legal power to alter your device without being punished by its manufacturer.
*
### Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
*From May 16 by Richard Speed*
In less than two months, Microsoft will phase out its Business Premium grant, which had provided eligible nonprofits with gratis access to features like desktop Office apps and advanced security tools. Even when Microsoft provides discounts on what they had previously provided at zero cost, the programs cost users an immense amount of freedom. Instead of partnering with greedy and predatory organizations like Microsoft, organizations should choose to use free (as in freedom) software, not just because it tends to cost less, but because it allows users to modify the program to their needs, check how secure it is (and implement security upgrades as needed), is fully transparent, and is pro-social, powered by a dedicated community of developers. If you use Microsoft 365 at work, consider bringing up with colleagues a freedom-respecting office suite, such as Libre Office.
* * *
### "End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux *From May 15 by Christine Hall*
Installing a free operating system (OS) on a nonfree device is a very important step towards freedom, but it rarely allows the user to exercise their freedom to the fullest extent. If someone brings a device that wasn't developed with freedom in mind and attempts to install a free OS, oftentimes there will be at least a couple of things that won't work correctly. This is due to most devices containing components that won't operate unless the installed OS contains some nonfree drivers or firmware. While there are ways around these limitations, such as using a USB adapter for the non-operating component, it is something to plan for when making the switch from a nonfree OS to a free one. If you plan to participate in an installfest in your area, do your best to be informed and share your knowledge with others about the choices and limitations that come with installing a free OS on a nonfree device.
* * *
### May GNU Emacs news
*From May 31 by Sacha Chua*
In these issues: Emacs cat, generating Beamer slides, and more!
### Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client -- Everyone's welcome!
The next meeting is Friday, June 6 from 12:00 to 15:00 EDT (16:00 to 19:00 UTC). Details here:
*
### LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
Every month on [the LibrePlanet wiki](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Main_Page), we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting the Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops. This page covers all things laptops, including laptops that are 100% free, freeable laptops, and laptops that need to be evaluated on how free they could be. You are invited to adopt, spread, and improve this important resource.
*
Do you have a suggestion for next month's featured resource? Let us know at .
### May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more!
Thirteen new GNU releases in the last month (as of May 31, 2025):
For announcements of most new GNU releases, subscribe to the info-gnu mailing list: .
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from . Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at , or you may use to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
A number of GNU packages, as well as the GNU operating system as a whole, are looking for maintainers and other assistance. Please see if you'd like to help. The general page on how to help GNU is at .
If you have a working or partly working program that you'd like to offer to the GNU project as a GNU package, see .
As always, please feel free to write to me, , with any GNUish questions or suggestions for future installments.
### FSF and other free software events
* June 5-8, 2025, Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Prague, Prague, Czech Republic [FLOCK-2025](https://fedoraproject.org/flock/2025/) * June 11-13, 2025, Deusto University: Bilbao Campus, Bilbao, Spain [SECRYPT](https://secrypt.scitevents.org/) * June 13-15, 2025, Sheraton Charlotte Airport, Charlotte, North Carolina [SouthEast LinuxFest](https://southeastlinuxfest.org/) * June 20-22, 2025, Lloyd Center Mall, Portland, Oregon [Teardown](https://www.crowdsupply.com/teardown/portland-2025/) * June 23-25, 2025, Denver, Colorado [OSSNA](https://events.linuxfoundation.org/open-source-summit-north-america/) * August 4-September 7, 2025, online FSF Free Software Every Day photo contest (*details to be announced*) * August 15-17, 2025, Queens, New York [HOPE](https://hope.net/) * October 3-4, 2025, University of Texas, Austin, Texas [Texus Linux Festival](https://2025.texaslinuxfest.org/) * October 4, 2025, FSF40 celebration (*details to be announced*) * October 4, 2025, FSF40 trivia night (*details to be announced*) * October 4, 2025, Harbin, China [Community meetup](https://www.fsf.org/events/community-meetup-harbin-china) * November 21-23, 2025, [FSF hackathon](https://www.fsf.org/news/fsf40-hackathon/)
### Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
*
This month, a big Thank GNU to:
* Adarsh Melethil * Arthur Gleckler * Dario Armani * David Klann * Podbielniak Giving Fund * Reynaldo Cordero * Ron Hume * Wan Steinbrenner McCutcheon Augustas A.P. Wimberly-Jackson
You can add your name to this list by donating at .
### GNU copyright contributions
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free. The following individuals have assigned their copyright to the FSF (and allowed public appreciation) in the past month:
* Giovanni Turco (GCC) * Jannik Hartung (GDB) * Michael James Kalyan (GNU Emacs) * Yuta Urano (GNU Emacs) * Rivulet Cedar (GNU Emacs) * Matthew Tromp (GNU Emacs)
Want to see your name on this list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
*
### Translations of the *Free Software Supporter*
El *Free Software Supporter* está disponible en español. Para ver la versión en español haz click aquí:
**Para cambiar las preferencias de usuario y recibir los próximos números del *Supporter* en español, haz click aquí:**
Le *Free Software Supporter* est disponible en français. Pour voir la version française cliquez ici:
**Pour modifier vos préférences et recevoir les prochaines publications du *Supporter* en français, cliquez ici:**
If you no longer wish to receive the *Free Software Supporter* in English (but still receive other communications in English), you can opt out [here][7].
[7]: https://my.fsf.org/node/75
### Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at . If you're already a member, you can help refer new members by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
> I'm an FSF member -- Help us support software freedom! >
The FSF is always looking for [volunteers](https://www.fsf.org/volunteer). From rabble-rousing to hacking, from issue coordination to envelope stuffing -- there's something here for everybody to do. Also, head over to our [campaigns section](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns) and [take action on software patents](https://endsoftwarepatents.org/), [Digital Restrictions Management](https://www.defectivebydesign.org/), [free software adoption](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:Freedom_Ladder), [OpenDocument](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns/opendocument/download), and more.
**Do you read and write Portuguese and English?** The FSF is looking for translators for the *Free Software Supporter*. Please send an email to with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications. -- Interested in helping us expand our reach?
* Follow us on Mastodon at and PeerTube at , showing your support for federated social networks. * Get active on the LibrePlanet wiki: . * Share on your blog or [social network](https://www.fsf.org/share) that you support us, and why you do so. * Subscribe to our RSS feeds: . * Join us as an associate member: ; and display your membership button () on your website.
Read our Privacy Policy: .
Sent from the Free Software Foundation,
31 Milk Street # 960789 Boston, Massachusetts 02196 United States
You can unsubscribe from this mailing list by visiting
https://my.fsf.org/civicrm/mailing/unsubscribe?reset=1&jid=169637&qid=93633251&h=25a284b721f59dcd. To stop all email from the Free Software Foundation, including Defective by Design, and the Free Software Supporter newsletter, visit
Welcome to the Free Software Supporter, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 232,663 other activists.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps
Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket
Why console makers can legally brick your game console
Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
"End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux
May GNU Emacs news
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more!
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the Supporter in French or Spanish.
June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Every month during our fortieth anniversary year, we're inviting free software supporters everywhere to join us in celebrating #FSF40. For this month's challenge, make the switch yourself or help someone else start using a free software program. For instance, instead of Zoom or FaceTime, give Jistsi or another free videoconferencing software a try. No matter if you want to make a big or small change, there's probably a program in the Free Software Directory that meets your needs. Already use only free software? Great job! That's no small feat. Maybe you can help someone else get started using a free program. If you can't take part in this #FSF40Challenge, fear not — we've got six more coming.
Have an idea for a challenge? Send us a message at campaigns@fsf.org!
Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
By Mission:Libre
Over a decade ago, Atheros released the ath9k suite of Linux kernel drivers, which were the first free Wi-Fi drivers for the Linux kernel. Atheros' work made it possible for GNU/Linux users to connect to Wi-Fi without having to use proprietary drivers or binary-only firmware. Unfortunately, as technology marches forward, the chipsets that were supported by free drivers have been discontinued, rendering the ath9k suite of Wi-Fi drivers obsolete. Today, there are no free Linux kernel drivers for contemporary Wi-Fi hardware. Tell Qualcomm, Inc. to release fully-free drivers for its in-production Wi-Fi chipsets, just as Atheros (Qualcomm's predecessor) did sixteen years ago.
No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
From May 29 by Free Software Foundation Europe
A majority of laptops being sold right now come with a controlling preinstalled Microsoft Windows operating system, with no easy way for users to opt-out. Not only is this a violation of user freedom, but it also financially costs the user who is stuck paying for a Windows license that they do not want. The new Refund4Freedom initiative aims to help users recover the cost of a Windows license when buying a new device and push for the end of this freedom-limiting practice. Read on to learn what you can do next time you or someone you know buys a new computer.
Microsoft users might be in for more update difficulties (and even less freedom) in the near future if many apps give way to Microsoft pressuring them to allow Microsoft to handle their updates. Whereas many free operating systems have had a unified app updater for years, Microsoft is once again trying to entice developers to put their updates in the Microsoft Store. It remains to be seen if developers will hand over updating responsibilities (and potentially control of updates) to Microsoft, but we recommend not waiting around to see if Microsoft will mishandle non-Microsoft app updates, too. If you or someone you know likes the sound of having all updates in one spot, consider upgrading to a free operating system.
Mozilla announced that its read-it-later app, Pocket (which allows users to save articles, videos, and web pages for later offline reading without ads), will become abandonware on July 8, 2025. As with many such programs, if Pocket was a free software program, users would have the freedom to use it long after Mozilla decided to shut it down. Instead, users of Pocket will now be forced to switch to a similar read-it-later, loading as much as eighteen years of data (if used since it's original launch as Read-It-Later) to a new app. Unfortunately, this is an often seen, sad end-point for proprietary programs. We hope that Mozilla will pick up on its previous attempts to publish the source code. If you have been a Pocket user until now, consider switching to a freedom-respecting read-it-later app, such as Wallabag.
Why console makers can legally brick your game console
From May 22 by Kyle Orland
Nintendo is one of the largest perpetrators of console bricking (making a console permanently unusable in whole or in part), and they currently have the legal ability to do so. When a proprietor bricks your device and/or the software that makes it run, they are attempting to control you and limit your user rights. Users like you should have the right to do as you wish with your personal device, including modifying it to work for you. Tell your state and national representatives that you should have the legal power to alter your device without being punished by its manufacturer.
Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
From May 16 by Richard Speed
In less than two months, Microsoft will phase out its Business Premium grant, which had provided eligible nonprofits with gratis access to features like desktop Office apps and advanced security tools. Even when Microsoft provides discounts on what they had previously provided at zero cost, the programs cost users an immense amount of freedom. Instead of partnering with greedy and predatory organizations like Microsoft, organizations should choose to use free (as in freedom) software, not just because it tends to cost less, but because it allows users to modify the program to their needs, check how secure it is (and implement security upgrades as needed), is fully transparent, and is pro-social, powered by a dedicated community of developers. If you use Microsoft 365 at work, consider bringing up with colleagues a freedom-respecting office suite, such as Libre Office.
"End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux
From May 15 by Christine Hall
Installing a free operating system (OS) on a nonfree device is a very important step towards freedom, but it rarely allows the user to exercise their freedom to the fullest extent. If someone brings a device that wasn't developed with freedom in mind and attempts to install a free OS, oftentimes there will be at least a couple of things that won't work correctly. This is due to most devices containing components that won't operate unless the installed OS contains some nonfree drivers or firmware. While there are ways around these limitations, such as using a USB adapter for the non-operating component, it is something to plan for when making the switch from a nonfree OS to a free one. If you plan to participate in an installfest in your area, do your best to be informed and share your knowledge with others about the choices and limitations that come with installing a free OS on a nonfree device.
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client -- Everyone's welcome!
LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
Every month on the LibrePlanet wiki, we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting the Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops. This page covers all things laptops, including laptops that are 100% free, freeable laptops, and laptops that need to be evaluated on how free they could be. You are invited to adopt, spread, and improve this important resource.
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from https://ftp.gnu.org/gnu/. Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at https://www.gnu.org/prep/ftp.html, or you may use https://ftpmirror.gnu.org/ to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free. The following individuals have assigned their copyright to the FSF (and allowed public appreciation) in the past month:
Giovanni Turco (GCC)
Jannik Hartung (GDB)
Michael James Kalyan (GNU Emacs)
Yuta Urano (GNU Emacs)
Rivulet Cedar (GNU Emacs)
Matthew Tromp (GNU Emacs)
Want to see your name on this list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
If you no longer wish to receive the Free Software Supporter in English (but still receive other communications in English), you can opt out here.
Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at https://my.fsf.org/join. If you're already a member, you can help refer new members by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
Do you read and write Portuguese and English? The FSF is looking for translators for the Free Software Supporter. Please send an email to campaigns@fsf.org with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications.
*Please consider adding to your address book, which will ensure that our messages reach you and not your spam box.*
*Read and share online: *
Welcome to the *Free Software Supporter*, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 232,663 other activists.
## TABLE OF CONTENTS
* June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch * Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets! * No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License! * Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps * Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket * Why console makers can legally brick your game console * Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits * "End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux * May GNU Emacs news * Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory * LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops * May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more! * FSF and other free software events * Thank GNUs! * GNU copyright contributions * Translations of the *Free Software Supporter* * Take action with the FSF!
View this issue online here:
Encourage your friends to subscribe and help us build an audience by adding our subscriber widget to your website.
* Subscribe: * Widget:
Miss an issue? You can catch up on back issues at .
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the *Supporter* in French or Spanish.
***
### June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Every month during our fortieth anniversary year, we're inviting free software supporters everywhere to join us in celebrating #FSF40. For this month's challenge, [make the switch][1] yourself or help someone else start using a [free software program][2]. For instance, instead of Zoom or FaceTime, give Jistsi or another [free videoconferencing software][3] a try. No matter if you want to make a [big or small change][4], there's probably a program in the [Free Software Directory][5] that meets your needs. Already use only free software? Great job! That's no small feat. Maybe you can [help someone else][6] get started using a free program. If you can't take part in this #FSF40Challenge, fear not — we've got six more coming.
Have an idea for a challenge? Send us a message at !
### Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
*By Mission:Libre*
Over a decade ago, Atheros released the ath9k suite of Linux kernel drivers, which were the first free Wi-Fi drivers for the Linux kernel. Atheros' work made it possible for GNU/Linux users to connect to Wi-Fi without having to use proprietary drivers or binary-only firmware. Unfortunately, as technology marches forward, the chipsets that were supported by free drivers have been discontinued, rendering the ath9k suite of Wi-Fi drivers obsolete. Today, there are no free Linux kernel drivers for contemporary Wi-Fi hardware. Tell Qualcomm, Inc. to release fully-free drivers for its in-production Wi-Fi chipsets, just as Atheros (Qualcomm's predecessor) did sixteen years ago.
* *
### No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
*From May 29 by Free Software Foundation Europe*
A majority of laptops being sold right now come with a controlling preinstalled Microsoft Windows operating system, with no easy way for users to opt-out. Not only is this a violation of user freedom, but it also financially costs the user who is stuck paying for a Windows license that they do not want. The new Refund4Freedom initiative aims to help users recover the cost of a Windows license when buying a new device and push for the end of this freedom-limiting practice. Read on to learn what you can do next time you or someone you know buys a new computer.
*
### Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps
*From May 28 by Tom Warren*
Microsoft users might be in for more update difficulties (and even less freedom) in the near future if many apps give way to Microsoft pressuring them to allow Microsoft to handle their updates. Whereas many free operating systems have had a unified app updater for years, Microsoft is once again trying to entice developers to put their updates in the Microsoft Store. It remains to be seen if developers will hand over updating responsibilities (and potentially control of updates) to Microsoft, but we recommend not waiting around to see if Microsoft will mishandle non-Microsoft app updates, too. If you or someone you know likes the sound of having all updates in one spot, consider upgrading to a free operating system.
* * *
### Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket
*From May 22 by Aisha Malik*
Mozilla announced that its read-it-later app, Pocket (which allows users to save articles, videos, and web pages for later offline reading without ads), will become abandonware on July 8, 2025. As with many such programs, if Pocket was a free software program, users would have the freedom to use it long after Mozilla decided to shut it down. Instead, users of Pocket will now be forced to switch to a similar read-it-later, loading as much as eighteen years of data (if used since it's original launch as Read-It-Later) to a new app. Unfortunately, this is an often seen, sad end-point for proprietary programs. We hope that Mozilla will pick up on its previous attempts to publish the source code. If you have been a Pocket user until now, consider switching to a freedom-respecting read-it-later app, such as Wallabag.
* *
### Why console makers can legally brick your game console
*From May 22 by Kyle Orland*
Nintendo is one of the largest perpetrators of console bricking (making a console permanently unusable in whole or in part), and they currently have the legal ability to do so. When a proprietor bricks your device and/or the software that makes it run, they are attempting to control you and limit your user rights. Users like you should have the right to do as you wish with your personal device, including modifying it to work for you. Tell your state and national representatives that you should have the legal power to alter your device without being punished by its manufacturer.
*
### Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
*From May 16 by Richard Speed*
In less than two months, Microsoft will phase out its Business Premium grant, which had provided eligible nonprofits with gratis access to features like desktop Office apps and advanced security tools. Even when Microsoft provides discounts on what they had previously provided at zero cost, the programs cost users an immense amount of freedom. Instead of partnering with greedy and predatory organizations like Microsoft, organizations should choose to use free (as in freedom) software, not just because it tends to cost less, but because it allows users to modify the program to their needs, check how secure it is (and implement security upgrades as needed), is fully transparent, and is pro-social, powered by a dedicated community of developers. If you use Microsoft 365 at work, consider bringing up with colleagues a freedom-respecting office suite, such as Libre Office.
* * *
### "End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux *From May 15 by Christine Hall*
Installing a free operating system (OS) on a nonfree device is a very important step towards freedom, but it rarely allows the user to exercise their freedom to the fullest extent. If someone brings a device that wasn't developed with freedom in mind and attempts to install a free OS, oftentimes there will be at least a couple of things that won't work correctly. This is due to most devices containing components that won't operate unless the installed OS contains some nonfree drivers or firmware. While there are ways around these limitations, such as using a USB adapter for the non-operating component, it is something to plan for when making the switch from a nonfree OS to a free one. If you plan to participate in an installfest in your area, do your best to be informed and share your knowledge with others about the choices and limitations that come with installing a free OS on a nonfree device.
* * *
### May GNU Emacs news
*From May 31 by Sacha Chua*
In these issues: Emacs cat, generating Beamer slides, and more!
### Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client -- Everyone's welcome!
The next meeting is Friday, June 6 from 12:00 to 15:00 EDT (16:00 to 19:00 UTC). Details here:
*
### LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
Every month on [the LibrePlanet wiki](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Main_Page), we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting the Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops. This page covers all things laptops, including laptops that are 100% free, freeable laptops, and laptops that need to be evaluated on how free they could be. You are invited to adopt, spread, and improve this important resource.
*
Do you have a suggestion for next month's featured resource? Let us know at .
### May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more!
Thirteen new GNU releases in the last month (as of May 31, 2025):
For announcements of most new GNU releases, subscribe to the info-gnu mailing list: .
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from . Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at , or you may use to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
A number of GNU packages, as well as the GNU operating system as a whole, are looking for maintainers and other assistance. Please see if you'd like to help. The general page on how to help GNU is at .
If you have a working or partly working program that you'd like to offer to the GNU project as a GNU package, see .
As always, please feel free to write to me, , with any GNUish questions or suggestions for future installments.
### FSF and other free software events
* June 5-8, 2025, Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Prague, Prague, Czech Republic [FLOCK-2025](https://fedoraproject.org/flock/2025/) * June 11-13, 2025, Deusto University: Bilbao Campus, Bilbao, Spain [SECRYPT](https://secrypt.scitevents.org/) * June 13-15, 2025, Sheraton Charlotte Airport, Charlotte, North Carolina [SouthEast LinuxFest](https://southeastlinuxfest.org/) * June 20-22, 2025, Lloyd Center Mall, Portland, Oregon [Teardown](https://www.crowdsupply.com/teardown/portland-2025/) * June 23-25, 2025, Denver, Colorado [OSSNA](https://events.linuxfoundation.org/open-source-summit-north-america/) * August 4-September 7, 2025, online FSF Free Software Every Day photo contest (*details to be announced*) * August 15-17, 2025, Queens, New York [HOPE](https://hope.net/) * October 3-4, 2025, University of Texas, Austin, Texas [Texus Linux Festival](https://2025.texaslinuxfest.org/) * October 4, 2025, FSF40 celebration (*details to be announced*) * October 4, 2025, FSF40 trivia night (*details to be announced*) * October 4, 2025, Harbin, China [Community meetup](https://www.fsf.org/events/community-meetup-harbin-china) * November 21-23, 2025, [FSF hackathon](https://www.fsf.org/news/fsf40-hackathon/)
### Thank GNUs!
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
*
This month, a big Thank GNU to:
* Adarsh Melethil * Arthur Gleckler * Dario Armani * David Klann * Podbielniak Giving Fund * Reynaldo Cordero * Ron Hume * Wan Steinbrenner McCutcheon Augustas A.P. Wimberly-Jackson
You can add your name to this list by donating at .
### GNU copyright contributions
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free. The following individuals have assigned their copyright to the FSF (and allowed public appreciation) in the past month:
* Giovanni Turco (GCC) * Jannik Hartung (GDB) * Michael James Kalyan (GNU Emacs) * Yuta Urano (GNU Emacs) * Rivulet Cedar (GNU Emacs) * Matthew Tromp (GNU Emacs)
Want to see your name on this list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
*
### Translations of the *Free Software Supporter*
El *Free Software Supporter* está disponible en español. Para ver la versión en español haz click aquí:
**Para cambiar las preferencias de usuario y recibir los próximos números del *Supporter* en español, haz click aquí:**
Le *Free Software Supporter* est disponible en français. Pour voir la version française cliquez ici:
**Pour modifier vos préférences et recevoir les prochaines publications du *Supporter* en français, cliquez ici:**
If you no longer wish to receive the *Free Software Supporter* in English (but still receive other communications in English), you can opt out [here][7].
[7]: https://my.fsf.org/node/75
### Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at . If you're already a member, you can help refer new members by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
> I'm an FSF member -- Help us support software freedom! >
The FSF is always looking for [volunteers](https://www.fsf.org/volunteer). From rabble-rousing to hacking, from issue coordination to envelope stuffing -- there's something here for everybody to do. Also, head over to our [campaigns section](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns) and [take action on software patents](https://endsoftwarepatents.org/), [Digital Restrictions Management](https://www.defectivebydesign.org/), [free software adoption](https://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:Freedom_Ladder), [OpenDocument](https://www.fsf.org/campaigns/opendocument/download), and more.
**Do you read and write Portuguese and English?** The FSF is looking for translators for the *Free Software Supporter*. Please send an email to with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications. -- Interested in helping us expand our reach?
* Follow us on Mastodon at and PeerTube at , showing your support for federated social networks. * Get active on the LibrePlanet wiki: . * Share on your blog or [social network](https://www.fsf.org/share) that you support us, and why you do so. * Subscribe to our RSS feeds: . * Join us as an associate member: ; and display your membership button () on your website.
Read our Privacy Policy: .
Sent from the Free Software Foundation,
31 Milk Street # 960789 Boston, Massachusetts 02196 United States
You can unsubscribe from this mailing list by visiting
https://my.fsf.org/civicrm/mailing/unsubscribe?reset=1&jid=169637&qid=93633251&h=25a284b721f59dcd. To stop all email from the Free Software Foundation, including Defective by Design, and the Free Software Supporter newsletter, visit
Welcome to the Free Software Supporter, the Free Software Foundation's (FSF) monthly news digest and action update -- being read by you and 232,663 other activists.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
Microsoft wants Windows Update to handle all apps
Mozilla is shutting down read-it-later app Pocket
Why console makers can legally brick your game console
Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
"End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux
May GNU Emacs news
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
May GNU spotlight with Amin Bandali featuring thirteen new GNU releases: Automake, Gettext, and more!
Want to read this newsletter translated into another language? Scroll to the end to read the Supporter in French or Spanish.
June FSF40 challenge: Make the switch to a free software program or help someone else switch
Every month during our fortieth anniversary year, we're inviting free software supporters everywhere to join us in celebrating #FSF40. For this month's challenge, make the switch yourself or help someone else start using a free software program. For instance, instead of Zoom or FaceTime, give Jistsi or another free videoconferencing software a try. No matter if you want to make a big or small change, there's probably a program in the Free Software Directory that meets your needs. Already use only free software? Great job! That's no small feat. Maybe you can help someone else get started using a free program. If you can't take part in this #FSF40Challenge, fear not — we've got six more coming.
Have an idea for a challenge? Send us a message at campaigns@fsf.org!
Use your voice for free software! Tell Qualcomm to release fully-free drivers for modern Wi-Fi chipsets!
By Mission:Libre
Over a decade ago, Atheros released the ath9k suite of Linux kernel drivers, which were the first free Wi-Fi drivers for the Linux kernel. Atheros' work made it possible for GNU/Linux users to connect to Wi-Fi without having to use proprietary drivers or binary-only firmware. Unfortunately, as technology marches forward, the chipsets that were supported by free drivers have been discontinued, rendering the ath9k suite of Wi-Fi drivers obsolete. Today, there are no free Linux kernel drivers for contemporary Wi-Fi hardware. Tell Qualcomm, Inc. to release fully-free drivers for its in-production Wi-Fi chipsets, just as Atheros (Qualcomm's predecessor) did sixteen years ago.
No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
From May 29 by Free Software Foundation Europe
A majority of laptops being sold right now come with a controlling preinstalled Microsoft Windows operating system, with no easy way for users to opt-out. Not only is this a violation of user freedom, but it also financially costs the user who is stuck paying for a Windows license that they do not want. The new Refund4Freedom initiative aims to help users recover the cost of a Windows license when buying a new device and push for the end of this freedom-limiting practice. Read on to learn what you can do next time you or someone you know buys a new computer.
Microsoft users might be in for more update difficulties (and even less freedom) in the near future if many apps give way to Microsoft pressuring them to allow Microsoft to handle their updates. Whereas many free operating systems have had a unified app updater for years, Microsoft is once again trying to entice developers to put their updates in the Microsoft Store. It remains to be seen if developers will hand over updating responsibilities (and potentially control of updates) to Microsoft, but we recommend not waiting around to see if Microsoft will mishandle non-Microsoft app updates, too. If you or someone you know likes the sound of having all updates in one spot, consider upgrading to a free operating system.
Mozilla announced that its read-it-later app, Pocket (which allows users to save articles, videos, and web pages for later offline reading without ads), will become abandonware on July 8, 2025. As with many such programs, if Pocket was a free software program, users would have the freedom to use it long after Mozilla decided to shut it down. Instead, users of Pocket will now be forced to switch to a similar read-it-later, loading as much as eighteen years of data (if used since it's original launch as Read-It-Later) to a new app. Unfortunately, this is an often seen, sad end-point for proprietary programs. We hope that Mozilla will pick up on its previous attempts to publish the source code. If you have been a Pocket user until now, consider switching to a freedom-respecting read-it-later app, such as Wallabag.
Why console makers can legally brick your game console
From May 22 by Kyle Orland
Nintendo is one of the largest perpetrators of console bricking (making a console permanently unusable in whole or in part), and they currently have the legal ability to do so. When a proprietor bricks your device and/or the software that makes it run, they are attempting to control you and limit your user rights. Users like you should have the right to do as you wish with your personal device, including modifying it to work for you. Tell your state and national representatives that you should have the legal power to alter your device without being punished by its manufacturer.
Microsoft pulls MS365 Business Premium from nonprofits
From May 16 by Richard Speed
In less than two months, Microsoft will phase out its Business Premium grant, which had provided eligible nonprofits with gratis access to features like desktop Office apps and advanced security tools. Even when Microsoft provides discounts on what they had previously provided at zero cost, the programs cost users an immense amount of freedom. Instead of partnering with greedy and predatory organizations like Microsoft, organizations should choose to use free (as in freedom) software, not just because it tends to cost less, but because it allows users to modify the program to their needs, check how secure it is (and implement security upgrades as needed), is fully transparent, and is pro-social, powered by a dedicated community of developers. If you use Microsoft 365 at work, consider bringing up with colleagues a freedom-respecting office suite, such as Libre Office.
"End of 10" to Windows 10 users: The environment wants you to use GNU/Linux
From May 15 by Christine Hall
Installing a free operating system (OS) on a nonfree device is a very important step towards freedom, but it rarely allows the user to exercise their freedom to the fullest extent. If someone brings a device that wasn't developed with freedom in mind and attempts to install a free OS, oftentimes there will be at least a couple of things that won't work correctly. This is due to most devices containing components that won't operate unless the installed OS contains some nonfree drivers or firmware. While there are ways around these limitations, such as using a USB adapter for the non-operating component, it is something to plan for when making the switch from a nonfree OS to a free one. If you plan to participate in an installfest in your area, do your best to be informed and share your knowledge with others about the choices and limitations that come with installing a free OS on a nonfree device.
Join the FSF and friends in updating the Free Software Directory
Tens of thousands of people visit directory.fsf.org each month to discover free software. Each entry in the Directory contains a wealth of useful information, from basic category and descriptions to version control, IRC channels, documentation, and licensing. The Free Software Directory has been a great resource to software users over the past decade, but it needs your help staying up-to-date with new and exciting free software projects.
To help, join our weekly IRC meetings on Fridays. Meetings take place in the #fsf channel on Libera.Chat and usually include a handful of regulars as well as newcomers. Libera.Chat is accessible from any IRC client -- Everyone's welcome!
LibrePlanet featured resource: Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops
Every month on the LibrePlanet wiki, we highlight one resource that is interesting and useful -- often one that could use your help.
For this month, we are highlighting the Group: Hardware/Computers/Laptops. This page covers all things laptops, including laptops that are 100% free, freeable laptops, and laptops that need to be evaluated on how free they could be. You are invited to adopt, spread, and improve this important resource.
To download: nearly all GNU software is available most reliably from https://ftp.gnu.org/gnu/. Optionally, you may find faster download speeds at a mirror located geographically closer to you by choosing from the list of mirrors published at https://www.gnu.org/prep/ftp.html, or you may use https://ftpmirror.gnu.org/ to be automatically redirected to a (hopefully) nearby and up-to-date mirror.
We appreciate everyone who donates to the Free Software Foundation, and we'd like to give special recognition to the folks who have donated $500 or more in the last month.
Assigning your copyright to the Free Software Foundation helps us defend the GNU GPL and keep software free. The following individuals have assigned their copyright to the FSF (and allowed public appreciation) in the past month:
Giovanni Turco (GCC)
Jannik Hartung (GDB)
Michael James Kalyan (GNU Emacs)
Yuta Urano (GNU Emacs)
Rivulet Cedar (GNU Emacs)
Matthew Tromp (GNU Emacs)
Want to see your name on this list? Contribute to GNU and assign your copyright to the FSF.
If you no longer wish to receive the Free Software Supporter in English (but still receive other communications in English), you can opt out here.
Take action with the FSF!
Contributions from thousands of individual associate members enable the FSF's work. You can contribute by joining at https://my.fsf.org/join. If you're already a member, you can help refer new members by adding a line with your member number to your email signature like:
Do you read and write Portuguese and English? The FSF is looking for translators for the Free Software Supporter. Please send an email to campaigns@fsf.org with your interest and a list of your experience and qualifications.
