Freedom in Android is fading, but we can still reverse the course
Android became the world’s most-used mobile system because it was Free Software. Step by step, Google is closing it. But we can change this.
News
The FSFE empowers users to control technology with its diverse activities and concrete engagement for software freedom. Follow us and make sure to receive regular updates and deeper insights on our various channels.
Follow our News
To keep up with our latest news, subscribe to our RSS feed and visit the different media channels.
Jean-Baptiste Kempf receives the European SFS Award 2025 at SFSCON
The FSFE and LUGBZ have recognized VLC president and core developer with a European award for his long-term dedication to the project. What began as a student initiative has, through his continuous effort, evolved into one of the most widely used media players, with billion of users worldwide.
Digital sovereignty in action: meet the FSFE at SFSCON 2026
November brings us one the Free Software weekends we have all been waiting for. If you're passionate about Free Software, you know there is one place to be this month. Join us on 13 and 14 November at the South Tyrol Free Software Conference in Bolzano!
Public Procurement Act: Europe needs control over its digital infrastructure
The process to update European procurement rules has started. With the proposal for the Public Procurement Act, it is now up to the EU’s co-legislators to address its shortcomings to ensure that Europe can control its digital infrastructure.
European teenagers build their own tech: 6 winners of programming competition awarded
More than 85 teenagers from 21 countries took part in Youth Hacking 4 Freedom 2026, with six winners who created solutions ranging from a scientific graphing calculator to tools tackling food waste and decentralised search. Their creations show how young Europeans can build technology everyone can control.
SFP#57: Policy and EU: Why everyone should care about procurement!
It is Podcast Friday! For our regular episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Bonnie sat down with Alexander Sander, FSFE's policy consultant to talk about procurement as its rules for the public sector is currently under revision within the European Parliament. The FSFE is pushing for a Free Software-first approach.
From Brussels to Bolzano: Router Freedom, young hackers and our community
October is here and with it, our reflection on the last twelve months: check out our Software Freedom report to find out everything that happened in the last 365 days, and read the coming news about YH4F. Our latest podcast episodes are also out: one about our local Danish group and another about the European Digital Networks Act.
SFP#56: Policy and EU: All about the DNA
Fall is finally here, and so is our next episode for the Software Freedom Podcast! In this episode Bonnie Mehring meets with Dario Presutti, FSFE's project manager working on different policy and legal topics. Together, they talk about software freedom and why the Digital Networks Act (DNA) is an opportunity to gain control over the devices connecting us to the internet.
Software Freedom in Europe 2026
In 2026 we turned 25 years old! We continued enforcing and contributing to the development of DMA and followed up the technological sovereignty debates across Europe explaining why only Free Software gives public institutions control over the digital infrastructure. Ada & Zangemann and YH4F continued bringing software freedom to younger audiences.
SFP#55: Policy and EU: Meet our Danish local group from Aarhus!
The Software Freedom Podcast for September is out! In this episode Bonnie Mehring meets with Carsten Agger, the FSFE’s Danish Coordinator. Together, they talk about the Free Software community in Denmark, digital sovereignty, and the growing interest in Free Software within the public sector.
YH4F: Italian pupils are now earning school credits for Free Software projects!
For all Italian students, we are coming with an exciting project for you! Italian pupils can gain credit points for their extra curriculum while developing Free Software projects and competing in Youth Hacking 4 Freedom. As the FSFE’s programming competition is, from now on, integrated in the Italian extra school credit points system.
Keep Android Open & Android distribution alternatives
Our phones outrank our laptops as our daily tool, yet we barely control them with Google and Apple keeping stalling EU interoperability. Our latest SFP episode covers Google's developer verification policy squeezing sideloading, and "Keep Android Open” while this month we start a series on each Android distribution alternative.
Free Your Android: Let's test Free Software android distributions
Free Software on phones has been of major importance over the past decades. Android is a big cornerstone in that area, but which distribution suits your use case? Which one respects your freedom and supports your daily life? In this series, we will try to answer those questions.
Copyrightability of LLM-generated code: Can we license “vibe code” into Free Software?
The use of large language models (“LLMs”) has exploded in recent years, including in the generation of source code. But even as their usage gains popularity, these trends bring with them pressing legal questions as well: if code is generated by an LLM, is that code copyrightable? And if so, who owns the copyright to that generated code?
Working in the Engine Room of the FSFE
All spaceships need a control room and all control rooms need someone to run it. At the FSFE that is our System Hackers, a group of volunteers who are the backbone behind our IT infrastructure, the ones making sure that our blinking lights show green (and not red!). Since 2022, our colleague Tobias has been part of it. Let’s learn more about it with him!
SFP#54: Policy and EU: Keep Android Open, what is the FSFE doing?
The Software Freedom Podcast is not going on holiday this summer! In our 54th Bonnie Mehring meets with Jithendra Palepu to learn about the Android Developer verification and how it may affect the Android operating system.
Back from our FSFE25 celebrations with news about EIF and the DMA
August is here and after our FSFE 25 years celebration, we are already working on our next projects! While we are still enjoying the wonderful "hangover" of our days in Kraków, in the last weeks we have also got positive news on the DMA and the Apple litigation, we submitted our proposal to the new EIF, and more!
A quarter-century of Software Freedom: the FSFE turns 25
The FSFE was founded in 2001 by a group of European Free Software advocates. 25 years later, this European charity has grown into one of the most respected organisations defending Software Freedom in Europe.
The FSFE calls for Free Software as the model for digital public services
In its feedback regarding the review of the European Interoperability Framework, the FSFE is calling for Free Software and Open Standards to be the default when procuring and creating interoperable digital public services.
Google Android antitrust ruling shows the next battle is over who controls trust
This text was originally published by Tech Policy Press under CC BY-ND 4.0.
Legal Corner: How Apple’s attack on interoperability failed
8 July 2026 marks a significant milestone in the fight for interoperability and software freedom, for both developers and users: the Court of Justice of the European Union dismissed Apple’s challenge against its designation under the Digital Markets Act. This judgement confirms that Apple remains subject to the DMA.
SFP#53: FSFE is turning 25! Come and celebrate with us!
Times goes by… Did you know the FSFE was founded in 2001, 25 years ago? Of course, we have planned something for our silver anniversary! We are dedicating a full episode of the Software Freedom Podcast to talk about the celebrations and to invite, all of you, our listeners, to celebrate with us. Find out more in our 53rd episode!
Apple held accountable under the DMA - A victory for developers and computer users!
The Court of Justice of the European Union has rejected Apple's challenge to the interoperability obligations under the Digital Markets Act. The Court also confirmed the App Store as a core platform service. The FSFE hails this as a major win for computer users and developers.
YH4F 2026 wraps up, Android interoperability, and the Teufel Mynd speaker to test
The past few weeks have been busy for YH4F 2026 participants: the programming period wrapped up on 30 June with project submissions for evaluation. We also submitted our position on the EC's Android interoperability consultation, and published an in-depth study by an FSFE volunteer examining whether the Teufel Mynd speaker truly qualifies as Free Software and Open Hardware.
Open Hardware and Free Software: Teufel Mynd, a case study
The FSFE's volunteer and open hardware passionate, Nicole Faeber read about the Teufel Mynd speaker announced as an "Open Source Project", so she decided to put it to the test. We, the FSFE, bought one and she dug in. Curious what she found? Read along with us!
DMA: Protecting Device Neutrality in Android Devices
The FSFE has submitted its position to the European Commission’s Android interoperability consultation under the Digital Markets Act, calling for, among others, the right to fully uninstall AI-based features from Android devices, and access to interoperability functions for developers free from Google’s verification requirements.
SFP#52: Policy and EU: Insights from the T-DOSE conference and the Dutch community
In our 52nd episode, we turn our attention to the European stages, this time going to the Netherlands. There, on 6 and 7 June, Dutch volunteers and Free Software enthusiasts came together for the 2026 T-DOSE conference, the heart and soul of the local community.
Decades-long victory, bold Apple survey findings, legal workshop success & our 50th podcast episode
In the last weeks, we got the green light to intervene against Apple before the European Court of Justice for the second time (!) while the European Commission has included the “Public Money? Public Code!” principle in its Technological Sovereignty Package. And stay tuned! A new European consortium will be launching soon, and we are part of it!
EU Tech Sovereignty: A milestone for Public Code? Now implementation is key
The European Commission published its Technological Sovereignty Package on 3 June 2026, containing the new "Open Source Strategy". If implemented, it could mark a paradigm shift by adopting the Free Software Foundation Europe’s “Public Money? Public Code!” principle. Its success will depend on binding rules, long-term funding, and meaningful civil society involvement.
Restack: a new European consortium for a digital Europe
Recent geopolitical events have highlighted Europe's need for a resilient, homegrown technology ecosystem free from critical dependencies. The new Horizon Europe project Restack aims to accomplish it. The FSFE is a partner of the Restack consortium, providing legal and licensing support for potentially over 200 Free Software projects and assisting their growth into part of a wider European digital commons.
DMA: The FSFE intervenes against Apple before European Court of Justice for the second time
The Free Software Foundation Europe has been granted permission to intervene at the Court of Justice of the European Union in the case T-359/25 - Apple against the European Commission. This second intervention aims to defend interoperability and Software Freedom in Europe.
SFP#51: Policy and EU: The challenges for public code in public administration!
In this monthly Software Freedom Podcast episode we are talking with the Nordic Institute for Interoperability Solutions (NIIS) and their X-Road, a Free Software well-used in public institutions. Together with Johannes Näder from the FSFE, and Petteri Kivimäki (NIIS) we discussed the current challenges that Free and Open Source Projects meet in public institutions.
Decades-long victory, bold Apple survey findings, legal workshop success & our 50th podcast episode
April brought LLW, where we gathered with Legal Network members to discuss a wide range of legal and licensing topics. One of them was the DMA, legislation that is keeping us busy: we are exposing how Apple keeps blocking third-party developers, denying their interoperability requests. On a brighter note, over ten years of advocacy paid off: the EC is protecting users' right to install any software on radio devices. And we reached episode 50 in our SFP!
FSFE: NHS England should not hide public code behind closed doors
England’s National Health Service (NHS England) is preparing to make most of its public source code repositories private by default, according to recent reports. The move appears to be based on concerns that public code repositories could be scanned by AI systems to identify vulnerabilities. The reported internal guidance, referred to as “SDLC-8”, would require public repositories to be made private unless an explicit exception is approved.
Victory after a decade preventing Radio Lockdown
The European Commission is choosing to protect user’s right to install any software on their radio devices by deciding to abandon the specific article in the EU Radio Equipment regulation that was harming software freedom.
LLW 2026: opening legal conversations at the heart of Berlin
Berlin hosted the Free Software Legal & Licensing Workshop 2026, bringing together over 100 legal and compliance professionals, technologists, and policy experts from all over the globe. LLW continued to explore the evolving legal landscapes impacting Free Software, with many discussions focusing on how software licensing is impacted by the advent of large language models and AI
Apple keeps challenging its interoperability obligations under the DMA
A new FSFE report exposes how 56 interoperability requests under the Digital Markets Act have produced no concrete solutions by Apple, and how their declines contradict their own official documentation, leaving third-party developers locked out of iOS and iPadOS, despite European Commission’s latest specification decision.
SFP#50: Policy and EU: How NGI wants to save the Internet and what's next?
We reached our 50th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast! Thank you! Without the support of our listeners we would not have made it this far <3. In this episode Bonnie talks with Gabriel Ku Wei Bin, from the FSFE's legal team about how the European Next Generation Internet initiative works to move us in the right direction towards a human-centric web.
Full speed into conference season with a heartfelt “Thank you”
Conference season is in full swing! In the last week we have been navigating the challenge of our payment provider ending our contract, attending events, and preparing for what’s ahead. Check out our first interview on the 2026 ilovefs celebrations and our two latest podcast episodes. Thank you to everyone who supported us during this time of financial uncertainty!
How we celebrate "I Love Free Software Day" in Poznań, Poland
Not so long ago, the Free Software community celebrated the "I Love Free Software Day". A day in which the FSFE, our volunteers and many other organisations and individuals thank all contributors for their commitment to use, study, share and improve Free Software. Without them there is no software freedom!
SFP#49: O Captain! Let's talk about the FSFE Zurich group!
For our 49th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast we invited Ralf Hersel and did our first cross production with the Podcast “Captain it’s Wednesday” from GNU/Linux.ch. Ralf is part or the FSFE Zurich group and the GNU/Linux.ch, a community driven news page about everything related to Free Software and free society. In this general episode of the SFP Ralf takes us through the many activities the FSFE local group in Zurich has been doing.
450 FSFE supporters affected: Payment provider Nexi cancelled us
Our long-term payment provider Nexi has terminated our contract without prior notice. As a result, our supporters’ recurring credit card and direct debit donations have been halted by them. This affects more than 450 FSFE supporters, whom we have already informed by email.
SFP#48: Policy and EU: From open questions and attestation, how the CRA is moving forward!
Once again Alexander Sander and Bonnie Mehring sat down for our monthly Software Freedom Podcast episode! The Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) keeps us busy and there are still a lot of uncertainties around it. Take a break and listen to our latest Policy and EU episode of the Software Freedom Podcast.
It's all about our community
Our March newsletter brings you the energy of 22 I Love Free Software Day celebrations across Europe, the Norwegian release of Ada & Zangemann, updates on the Cyber Resilience Act and Router Freedom, and two fresh Software Freedom Podcast episodes.
22 events, one message: Maintainers Matter and we love Free Software
The 2026 edition of “I Love Free Software Day” demonstrated, once again, the strength and gratitude of our Free Software community. 22 celebrations in 12 European countries highlighted the invaluable work of Free Software maintainers as well as bringing people together to thank everyone who contributes to Free Software. Appreciation also extended across the Fediverse, alongside other surprises.
Ada’s Norwegian adventure begins!
When Petter discovered “Ada & Zangemann”, he immediately felt the urge to make sure the story was available to the Norwegian speakers. Now “Ada og Zangemann - En fortelling om programvare, rullebrett og bringebæris” has been published and was presented during the Norwegian local celebrations of the “I Love Free Software Day”. Read Petter’s story!
Addressing your questions about the Cyber Resilience Act
During FOSDEM 2026, the FSFE held a Q&A session on the Cyber Resilience Act together with a representative of the German market surveillance authority and the European Commission as there are still uncertainties and recurring questions.
Digital Networks Act: the FSFE calls for strong and consistent protection of Router Freedom
For more than a decade, the Free Software Foundation Europe has worked to protect Router Freedom in Europe. The European Union is about to reform the telecom sector with the proposed Digital Networks Act. We call for a clear and harmonised approach that upholds this freedom across all Member States.
SFP#47: ILoveFS: Let’s meet our maintainers
Happy I Love Free Software Day! And with this we have a special Software Freedom Podcast episode to mark this special day with something nice. For our I Love Free Software Day podcast episode we have spoken with Lorenz Kästle from the monitoring plugins.
SFP#46: Policy and EU: Can the DMA help Free Software developers working with Android?
In this 46th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Lucas Lasota and Bonnie Mehring go into interoperability compliance under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) and mobile phones. The podcast dives deeper in the compliance changes in Android Open Source Project (AOSP).
From FOSDEM to "I ❤️ Free Software Day”: community, policy, and the freedom to study code
February is a reminder of why our Free Software community matters and why it's such a joy to be part of it. After FOSDEM, we are now looking ahead to the celebrations of the I Love Free Software Day across Europe. We are also catching up with our latest episodes of the Software Freedom Podcast focused on European policy and a Legal Corner about the freedom to study source code.
The social value of the freedom to study source code in the Spanish Court
While copyright and licensing currently form the core legal structures that support Free Software, a September 2025 ruling from the Spanish Supreme Court provides a legal precedent that underlines the importance of transparency in source codes and algorithms, and support for the Freedom to Study!
SFP#45: The final chapter of the EU Radio Equipment Directive
What can be better while travelling to FOSDEM than to listen to the (hopefully) final chapter of the EU Radio Equipment Directive (RED)? In this 45th SFP episode Alexander Sander and Bonnie Mehring are discussing the RED with their former colleague Max Mehl.
The FSFE at FOSDEM 2026: connect, learn, and celebrate Free Software with us in Brussels!
FOSDEM returns in 2026, once again bringing together thousands of developers, contributors, and Free Software enthusiasts from around the world. Whether this is your first FOSDEM or you are already an expert at navigating the ULB campus, we hope to see you there!
SFP#44: Policy and EU: Navigate through current relevant EU initiatives
January is a busy month. We all come back from our relaxing (or in some cases rather stressful) holidays and what best to do with all the energy the New Year brings along? Of course, we have to advocate for Free Software! One way is advocating for the representation of Free Software in the initiatives the European Union is working.
A strong close to 2025 at 39C3; a promising start to 2026 thanks to your support
As 2026 begins, we are excited to see the projects from the new edition of YH4F, kicking off this month, and to start preparing for FOSDEM! At the same time, we are looking back at the last month of 2025: from 39c3 in Hamburg to our two latest Software Freedom Podcast episodes, and our updates on the Cyber Resilience Act and our work in the Apple v. European Commission litigation.
Ada & Zangemann available to pre-order in Dutch
The first storytale about digital sovereignty is now also available to pre-order in Dutch. This effort involved a lot of work by our volunteer Nico Rikken and others. Be the first to get the book by buying it at the FOSDEM conference in Brussels in the weekend of 31 January or pre-order it online and help us to spread it widely. Read his story!
"The FSFE had the most impactful intervention in the EU’s highest court”
Our headline quotes a European Commission enforcement officer during a court hearing in a key case where the FSFE is intervening against Apple. As explained below, strategic litigation is one of many actions FSFE takes to protect Free Software. Our goal is simple: empowering people to control technology.
SFP#43: It is Youth Hacking 4 Freedom!
Have you heard about this wonderful programming competition for teenagers from all over Europe? Haven't you? Join us to find out everything you need to know about "Youth Hacking 4 Freedom"!
The role of the Cyber Resilience Act for Free Software
While the implementation of the EU Cyber Resilience Act is currently underway, several questions remain open, especially regarding its implications for the Free Software landscape. The relationship between Free Software projects, potential stewards, and manufacturers hangs only partially defined, and official guidance will help.
Wrapping Up the Year With Free Software at the 39C3
Once again, the FSFE is heading to the Chaos Communication Congress! From 27 until the 30 December, we will be back in Hamburg as part of the Bits & Bäume assembly. Over 12.000 people will join us to participate in this community event, full of great talks, workshops and creatures from all over the world. Swing by, say hi, and warm up with some Free Software vibes!
SFP#42: Policy and EU: The answer for a digital sovereign future must be Free Software
Although 42 is the answer for everything we tried to get it into helping us to achieve digital sovereignty in the public infrastructure. However there is an answer out there: digital sovereignty is only possible by empowering people and, therefore public institutions, to control their technology and own infrastructure.
Germany Stack +++ DMA+++ YH4F
December has arrived, and with it, our last newsletter of 2025. In the last weeks, we took part in the consultation on the Germany Stack, exchanged insights at the Article 19 2025 DMA Enforcement Symposium, and gave REUSE a new home on Codeberg. Meanwhile, registration for the next edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom is opened and we have new Software Freedom podcast episodes to listen to.
Opening the cage: the FSFE flies away from X (Twitter)
The Free Software Foundation Europe deleted its account on X. The platform never aligned with our values and no longer serves as a space for communication. What initially intended to be a place for dialogue and information exchange has turned into a centralised arena of hostility, misinformation, and profit-driven control, far removed from the ideals of freedom we stand for.
Germany Stack: Only Free Software Enables Digital Sovereignty
The “Germany Stack” is a central digital-policy project of the German federal government. The FSFE calls for the Stack to be planned in close coordination with European partners and to be implemented entirely as Free Software, since only the four freedoms enable digital sovereignty.
Fuel the next wave of tech talent with YH4F, the FSFE’s Free Software competition
Youth Hacking 4 Freedom is the FSFE’s programming competition for teenagers aged 14 to 18 years from across Europe. Through YH4F the FSFE conveys the values and knowledge surrounding Free Software, provides the chance to develop your own project idea, learn valuable skills for project management, problem solving and of course: programming! Find out why it is worth for you to support us in this mission and what our current sponsors say about YH4F.
SFP#41: Policy and EU: Recap of SFSCON
Remember that from the 7 November until 8 November, the FSFE has been at the well known and established South Tyrol Free Software Conference (SFSCON) in Bozen / Bolzano? Together with more than 1,000 participants, the FSFE discussed the current topics in the Free Software ecosystem and had a special focus on the main topic of this year's SFSCON: Ethics.
SFSCON +++ Apple v EU +++ YH4F winners
From facing Apple’s lawyer at the EU court defending interoperability to celebrating the unveiling of the 2025 YH4F winners, and finally walking through the autumn streets of Bolzano filled with Free Software enthusiasts, the past few weeks have been quite a roller coaster.
Jean-Baptiste Kempf receives the European SFS Award 2025 at SFSCON
The FSFE and LUGBZ have recognized VLC president and core developer with this European award for his long-term dedication to the project. What began as a student initiative has, through his continuous effort, evolved into one of the most widely used media players, with billion of users worldwide.
“They are not alone in their work for software freedom”
Every year on 14 February we celebrate “I Love Free Software Day”, thanking all who contribute to Free Software. Without all of you we would not have such a great ecosystem today! Our Polish group joined our celebrations on 2025 for the first time, and we wanted to know more about them. So, we talked with Damian, our Poland group coordinator, about the Polish groups’ commitment to Free Software.
Legal Corner: Apple’s “notarisation” – blocking software freedom of developers and users
The EU’s Digital Markets Act is supposed to shake up the power of tech giants by giving developers and users more choice. Apple’s “notarisation” of mobile apps contradicts these objectives. A civil-society complaint against Apple’s monopolistic control over app distribution aims to change that.
Join the Free Software conversation at SFSCON 2025!
Under the watchful gaze of the Dolomites, and with the scent of chestnuts in the air, the city of Bolzano welcomes Free Software enthusiasts to the South Tyrol Free Software Conference. Held every November, this event brings together participants from Italy and beyond for two full days of learning, sharing, and discussing the latest in Free Software.
2025 Youth Hacking 4 Freedom: winners unveiled!
The six winning projects, created by participants aged 14 to 18 and presented at the 2025 awards ceremony in Brussels, are: a language learning platform, a custom ROM page, a scroll wheel, a smart watering robot, a hyperbolic rendering engine, and a version control system.
SFP#40: How to tackle Openwashing?
It took us some time but we are finally there: The Software Freedom Podcast episode is releasing its 40th episode! In this one Johannes and Bonnie talk about Openwashing.
The FSFE defends Interoperability from Apple at the EU’s highest court
Today, on 21 October, the Free Software Foundation Europe participated as an intervener in the landmark Apple v. European Commission (T-1080/23) hearing before the Court of Justice of the European Union. The case will determine whether the Digital Markets Act can effectively guarantee interoperability, software freedom, and user choice
DMA litigation against Apple: a quick recap
The Digital Markets Act aimed to open Europe’s digital ecosystems, but that promise is now being tested. In Apple v. European Commission, Apple challenges key DMA rules on interoperability and user choice at the EU's highest court. The FSFE is intervening to defend user freedoms. The public hearing takes place Tuesday, 21 October.
SFP#39: Policy and EU: CRA and what’s next?
We are talking about the Cyber Resilience Act and the challenges, you, our community, and many others, pointed out. With our 39th episode Bonnie and Alex follow up on the questionnaire we put to you for the Cyber Resilience Act and present the key findings.
Yearly Report +++ DMA turns one +++ Legal Corner
Our October newsletter comes with our Software Freedom in Europe report! As the DMA celebrates its first year, we reflect on Device Neutrality and discuss the war on ad blockers in our Legal Corner. Check out our interview about 'I Love Free Software Day' with our local group in Barcelona and listen to a new episode of our Policy & EU podcast series.
How we celebrate "I Love Free Software Day" in Barcelona, Spain
The annual "I Love Free Software Day" celebration, on 14 February, acknowledges all Free Software contributors for their commitment to the four freedoms (to use, study, share and improve Free Software). The Free Software contributors’ dedication is amazing and safeguards our software freedom. We want to thank all of you for work to Free Software <3
Software Freedom in Europe 2025
In 2025 we remained engaged in enforcing the DMA, intervening in the Apple vs EC legal case; we participated in the debates around the CRA and public procurement to ensure that Free Software is embedded in Europe’s digital future. Also, we continued providing legal support and improved REUSE, while involving teenagers with YH4F, and we reached new audiences with the new Ada & Zangemann movies.
The Digital Markets Act turns 1: one year of pushing for Device Neutrality
2025 marks one year of the enforcement of the Digital Markets Act. In our input to the European Commission’s public consultation we welcome the DMA as a milestone in regulating large tech corporations, but we stress the hurdles and challenges for making Device Neutrality a reality.
DMA litigation: the FSFE takes part in court hearing in Apple vs Commission case
On 21 October, the Free Software Foundation Europe is participating as intervener in the hearing of the Apple vs. European Commission case at the Court of Justice of the European Union. As part of the Digital Markets Act enforcement actions, this is a key case for Free Software and digital markets.
Legal Corner: The War on Ad Blockers – Axel Springer’s Assault on User Freedom
For many internet users, an adblocker is an important piece of software that allows them to control the digital information they receive from their browsers, providing the option of an ad-free browsing experience. Despite this, a recent decision by the German Federal Court of Justice is giving Axel Springer a second chance to erode user freedom.
SFP#38: Policy and EU: Free Software Software Stack(s)
During the debate on digital sovereignty, the term “software stack” started to float around. This term quickly started to fill up with different ideas, and a discussion about it took root. Follow Alex and Bonnie in this episode to learn more about Free Software Software stacks and their connection with public administration.
Legal Corner +++ CRA +++ Public Awareness
Last month we published a new article in our Legal Corner, we checked how the German government is doing after 100 days, and we provided a deeper look at the CRA on our podcast. We also attended several conferences and continue working on making gatekeepers accountable under the DMA.
How we celebrate "I Love Free Software Day" in Potteries, UK
Every year "I Love Free Software Day" is celebrated, where we thank all Free Software contributors for their commitment to use, study, share and improve Free Software. Without them there is no software freedom. We want to thank them all for contributing to Free Software <3
Legal Corner: Bringing SumUp to compliance: a case study of license enforcement
What happens when those who benefit from the four freedoms fail to comply with the terms of a Free Software license? Today we take a look at the experience of license enforcement by one of our FSFE volunteers against the fintech company SumUp, and examine the lessons that supporters of Free Software can take away from it.
SFP#37: Policy and EU: The most famous of them all – we are talking about the CRA
Most of you have heard of the famous Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), a legislation introducing CE labels for digital products. In our latest episode of the Software Freedom Podcast Bonnie and Alex have a easy to follow conversation about the CRA and what will be happening next.
After 100 days: Germany’s government still lacks a Free Software push
On 14 August 2025, Germany’s government marks 100 days in office. CDU, CSU, and SPD had pledged ambitious Free Software goals. Yet it remains unclear what these goals actually are, how they will be achieved, and what role Free Software will play in securing Germany’s technological sovereignty.
After 100 days: German government falls short on Free Software policy
100 days after the German federal government took office, the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) sees its demand for Free Software in public administration unfulfilled. While the governing coalition of CDU, CSU, and SPD announced ambitious goals for Free Software in the coalition agreement, no concrete, effective measures have been taken.
MP Explore +++ CRA questionnaire +++ DMA news
In July we continued working to make the EC aware of the gatekeepers' “excuses” to avoid compliance with the DMA and we are gathering your feedback about the Cyber Resilience Act. We have also developed a Free Software tool to help us reaching out to representatives in Parliaments across Europe. And more: SFP, FOSDEM...
Help the FSFE to connect with representatives
Developed by the Free Software Foundation Europe, MP Explore is a Free Software tool to help us reaching out to representatives in Parliaments across Europe. We need your help! Contribute by adding your local, regional, and national parliament!
SFP#36: Policy and EU: Call on the Commission to implement the AI Act
In August 2025 the first part of the European Artificial Intelligence Act enters into force. For our 36th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast Bonnie and Alex break down the current discussion about it and shed light on the arguments.
CRA: Free Software stewards, maintainers and manufactures, share your input!
To assess how the EU Cyber Resilience Act may impact the Free Software ecosystem, the “Dialogue on Cybersecurity” project, of which the FSFE is part, have developed a questionnaire. Its aim is to develop proposals for guidance.
DMA survey +++ SFP ++++ Summer Meeting
Summer has arrived, and with it came our annual Summer Meeting, where we spent time with our community. Learn more about the latest developments surrounding the Digital Markets Act, take a few minutes to share your perspective in our Interoperability Survey, and listen to the newest episode of our podcast. You can also read the latest news about Ada & Zangemann and Youth Hacking 4 Freedom.
DMA: tell us how gatekeepers are handling your interoperability requests
Free Software developers: your voice is needed! The Free Software Foundation Europe has launched the Digital Markets Act Interoperability Survey to gather first-hand experiences from developers requesting software interoperability.
SFP#35: Policy and EU: Tech sovereignty vote in the ITRE Committee
And we are back for our 35th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast with our monthly update on policy decisions, votes and discussions in the European Union! Together Bonnie Mehring and Alexander Sander talk about one specific policy topic in regard to Free Software. This month they sat down and covered the vote on the Tech sovereignty INI in the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE).
"YH4F provides teenagers with a platform to express their ideas and develop skills that are crucial for their future careers"
In just a few days, the 2025 Youth Hacking 4 Freedom programming period will come to an end, marking the start of the evaluation phase. Among the jury members is Alexios Zavras, who has been involved since the very first edition of the contest. Let us hear his insights on the YH4F competition and what motivates him to be part of the jury.
Refund4Freedom +++ Legal Corner +++ SFP
May kept us quite busy attending conferences and with the kick-off of the Refund4Freedom initiative. We also went through the issue of the threshold of originality for copyrightable source code and talked in our latest episode of the Software Freedom Podcast about the tech sovereignty debate in the EU.
Industry Committee vote: Technology sovereignty is only possible with Free Software
Industry committee of the European Parliament shows necessity and benefits of “open-source first” policy but report lacks concrete measures.
No more imposed licensing - Get back the cost of your Windows License!
When acquiring a new laptop you often end up dealing with an imposed pre-installed Microsoft Windows operating system. Even if you do not want to use it, you still need to pay for the Windows license. This is unfair. The Refund4Freedom initiative guides users in how to get their money back in these cases and demands the end of this practice that limits user freedom.
SFP#34: Policy and EU: Tech sovereignty debate in the EU
Dive with us into the inner workings of the European Parliament and learn about their approach on technological sovereignty. In this 34th episode of the Software Freedom Podcast Alex and Bonnie discuss the current debate in the European Union and pay special attention to the current European technological sovereignty and digital infrastructure INI.
Legal Corner: The threshold of originality for copyrightable source code
As a general rule, software source code is protected by copyright by default. Copyright holders create Free Software by applying a Free Software license to their code. Creative works, such as source code, nevertheless must be sufficiently original in nature before they can be protected by copyright. Exactly what is this “threshold of originality”, and are there types of code that are not automatically protected by copyright?
DMA +++ LLW 2025 +++ PMPC +++SFP
In April, our work on Device Neutrality continued with news and meetings on DMA; we had a PMPC meeting in Germany and talked about the German coalition agreement in one of our Podcast episodes; we also held our annual Legal & Licensing Workshop; and we published another article in our Legal Corner.
Simplifying FSFE translation process: integrating LibreTranslate
A new release of the Webpreview tool is here! This is our in-house Free Software preview tool for FSFE webpages. It supports our amazing volunteers in translating, and checking website content. Our latest update integrates LibreTranslate, providing a helpful starting point to speed up the translation process.
LLW 2025, “unperfect” discussions around Free Software in a legal environment
The Free Software Legal & Licensing Workshop convened once again, this time in Essen, bringing together over 100 legal and compliance professionals, technologists, and policy experts from across the globe. The 2025 edition delved into the evolving legal landscapes impacting Free Software, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence and cybersecurity.
SFP#33: Policy and EU: Coalition treaty in Germany and its role for Free Software
Recently, the German coalition treaty from the CDU/CSU and SPD has been published with over 140 pages. In our latest episode Alexander Sander and Bonnie Mehring talk about the coalition treaty and break down the standing of Free Software in it.
"YH4F encourages young students to be brave and resilient"
Youth Hacking 4 Freedom would not be possible without the amazing teenagers who join this contest, our incredible sponsors and donors, whose support is vital, and our expert jury, who evaluate the projects. One of these jury members is Brielen Madureira, who talked with us before the participants have to submit their projects.
Symposium “Public Money? Public Code! in practice”: Digital sovereignty needs Free Software!
The FSFE symposium on “Public Money? Public Code!“ makes it clear: Procurement of and investment in Free Software (also known as Open Source) are fundamental for innovation and digital sovereignty. Only Free Software can reduce the dependencies of public administration.
Restrictions on our Freedom to Study Software: A Legal Case Study from Poland
Software is a major component of modern life, affecting large parts of our lives. When software is embedded in vehicles, the ability to control our digital technology becomes even more important in the name of public safety. Despite that, a recent court case in Poland highlights how the law, and legal processes, can sometimes work against that.
DMA: European Commission falls short on interoperability requirements for Apple
Despite initial promising steps, the European Commission’s measures on Apple’s compliance with interoperability procedures under the Digital Markets Act fall short. The less stringent obligations on API documentation and long deadlines for interoperability solutions will impact how Free Software projects get interoperability from Apple.
Free Software and CRA - expert talk and discussion
On the afternoon of 3 April, Maarten Aertsen (NLnet Labs) will give a presentation on how the Cyber Resilience Act addresses Free Software, particularly in comparison to other New Legislative Framework (NLF)-style regulations in various sectors
Thank you +++ DMA ++ SFP +++ Ada
Spring is here, and so is our monthly newsletter! We want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your continued support and generous donations. In this issue, we bring you the latest updates on the DMA, a special podcast episode on Router Freedom, highlights from our talks at Chemnitzer Linux Tag, exciting Ada news, and much more.
We demand Router Freedom for Italian Internet users!
The Italian regulator AGCOM will decide whether to limit or consolidate Router Freedom in the country. The FSFE has actively engaged in a coalition of organisations urging the authority to prioritize consumer protection and the rights of end-users to use their own routers/modems in fiber networks.
SFP#32: Policy and EU: Router Freedom in the EU
Have you ever used your personal router to connect to the internet? Recently we achieved a major win in Germany for Router Freedom. In this 32nd episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Bonnie Mehring, Alexander Sander, and Lucas Lasota talk about Router Freedom and our work to protect freedom of choice regarding internet devices.
Share “Ada & Zangemann” with your friends: spread this animated movie and gift the book!
Thanks to our supporters and volunteers, the inspiring story of Ada & Zangemann has been translated into several languages! While we work, and gather funds, to publish the book and the animated movie in even more languages, we need your help: share the movie with your friends and post it around! The book is also a perfect gift for local libraries and schools.
Have you heard about YH4F? 2024 participant shares her journey and tips for success!
The 2025 edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom (YH4F) is officially underway. While this edition’s participants work on their own Free Software projects, we sat down with Aya, a YH4F 2024 contestant. She shared her inspiring journey from her first programming experience to creating a project for YH4F. Learn more about her story, and remember: you can still take part in this year’s competition!
FSFE symposium: Public Money? Public Code! in practice
Free Software is indispensable for public authorities to overcome dependencies and achieve technological sovereignty. Therefore, the need of the hour is "Public Money? Public Code!" The Free Software Foundation Europe's symposium in Essen on 08 April 2025 will open up practical perspectives on how administrations can move forward in this direction.
DMA & Free Software: what Free Software organisations need to know
On 24 March the FSFE will conduct an online Q&A session about the Digital Markets Act and its importance for representatives of Free Software organisations. The DMA was designed to limit the power of the "gatekeepers" and boost fairer digital markets. But what does its enforcement mean for Free Software? Join us for this strategic discussion.
Legal Corner+++ FOSDEM recap+++ Ada in Spanish
In the last few weeks we published our first Legal Corner article and the recordings of our talks at FOSDEM. We were happy to see pictures from the I Love Free Software Day celebrations and can't wait to meet you at CLT 2025! We are organising an online Q&A session about the DMA and Free Software. The Ada movie is finally available in Spanish!
"I Love Free Software Day" 2025: Hidden Projects
In the week of the 14th of February we celebrated the I Love Free Software Day 2025. This year we marked this special day with 19 events in 11 different European countries. Even more, hundreds of people and many organisations joined us in the Fediverse - with a special "Thank you!" note for Free Software projects and contributors. To all who joined us this time: "Thank you" for participating in this 15th edition of the "I Love Free Software Day" ❤️❤️❤️!
SFP#31: Policy and EU: FOSDEM recap
In our 31st episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Alexander Sander and Bonnie Mehring discuss the highlights of the two Devrooms that the FSFE co-organized during FOSDEM 2025: the 'Legal and Policy Issues DevRoom' and the 'Funding the FOSS Ecosystem DevRoom'. Find out more about the topics discussed there and tips about what to re-watch.
FOSDEM: Celebrating 25 years of community and Free Software
Some ocassions are too special to miss, like the FSFE February trip to FOSDEM, where we connected with the Free Software community. Even when things don’t go as planned, it was an energizing boost against the winter blues. Thanks to everyone who joined our DevRooms, attended our talks including our keynote on the Apple litigation, came to our women's breakfast, and stopped at the booth. Your support means a lot!
Legal Corner: MIA or Dead Contributors - Does It Matter For Your Software Project?
If your software project operates on multiple contributions, and a contributor becomes uncontactable or passes away, this can become an issue in certain situations. Here we’ll discuss when a missing or deceased contributor affects your software project, and what options you have.
SFP#30: The App Fair Project with Marc Prud'hommeaux
At FOSDEM, Bonnie Mehring and Marc Prud'hommeaux met to talk about Marc's Free Software initiative, The App Fair Project. This project is a marketplace for all devices and especially also for iOS devices that only distributes Free Software applications. Its goal is to foster a more accessible and inclusive Free Software ecosystem.
German elections +++ I Love FS Day +++ DMA, Ada, Router Freedom
February started with FOSDEM! It was great to meet some of you there before we meet again for “I Love Free Software Day”! In recent weeks, we shared our demands for the coming German elections, great news about Router Freedom, and an update about DMA. Moreover, the Ada movie is now available in French and we published two podcast episodes.
German Elections 2025: We demand public code, secure funding for Free Software, and transparent measurement of progress!
The next German government must finally push for the controllability, security, and sovereignty of the public digital infrastructure. As Free Software is a prerequisite for this, the FSFE is making 4 key demands: "Public Money? Public Code!", securing long-term funding for Free Software, deepening Free Software knowledge in administrations, and monitoring progress.
SFP#29: How South Tyrol is taking a step in the direction of software freedom
For our 29th episode we have something very special for you. Marta Andreoli, the Italian deputy coordinator, talks to Paolo Dongilli about the FUSS project. Together they unravel how FUSS is helping the schools in South Tyrol take a step towards software freedom.
Join us at FOSDEM 2025!
FOSDEM 2025 is almost here, and guess what? We want you to be, once again, part of it! Mark your calendars for 1 and 2 February 2025. The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) will be there with a keynote on our Apple court case, talks, devrooms, workshops, and of course, a booth where you can meet us, chat and share ideas. Stop by and say hello!
Router Freedom in Germany: A victory for consumers!
After a failed attempt by internet providers to exclude Router Freedom from fiber networks, the German regulator BNetzA has confirmed Router Freedom in the country. The FSFE, which has been pushing for this since 2013, will continue to monitor implementation and compliance.
SFP#28: Policy and EU: FOSDEM DevRooms with Alexander Sander
FOSDEM, Europe's largest Free Software conference, is just around the corner! In this episode of the Software Freedom Podcast, Bonnie Mehring and Alexander Sander discuss the two DevRooms organised by the Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE). Learn all about the Legal and Policy Issues DevRoom and the Funding the FOSS Ecosystem DevRoom.
The FSFE launches 'Ada & Zangemann' movie in French as Open Educational Resource
The Free Software Foundation Europe is releasing the animated film ‘Ada & Zangemann - A Tale of Software, Skateboards, and Raspberry Ice Cream’ in French as an Open Educational Resource. Originally a highly successful illustrated book, now available in 10 languages and counting, the story has been adapted into a film that can be freely used in schools.
The FSFE supports Dutch call to adopt social media platforms that respect public values
Last week six Dutch civic organisations launched the campaign ‘Make Socials Social Again’. They call upon public organisations to adopt social media platforms that respect public values and thus are the real ‘social’ platforms.
The FSFE calls for broader interoperability by Apple under the DMA
The Free Software Foundation Europe, alongside civil society organizations, developers and researchers, submitted its position to the European Commission’s public consultation on measures requiring Apple to ensure compliance with the Digital Markets Act’s interoperability provisions. The FSFE stressed the urgent need for Apple to provide effective, free-of-charge interoperability.
I Love Free Software Day 2025 is around the corner!
Ready for I Love Free Software Day 2025? At this annual event on 14 February the FSFE and other Free Software enthusiasts celebrate all the contributors to Free Software. It is a day dedicated to recognising and appreciating all the work done for Free Software projects, big or small.
FOSDEM & DMA updates+++ 2025 YH4F +++ Our visions for 2048
The new year has begun, offering 365 days to promote Free Software! As we prepare for FOSDEM and continue working on the DMA implementation, we are excited to launch the fourth edition of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom. We closed 2024 sharing our predictions for 2048 and taking part in the Chaos Communication Congress.
The FSFE at 38c3
The Free Software Foundation Europe, along with over sixteen thousand attendees, took part in the 38th Chaos Communication Congress with a booth, several talks and a lot of stickers. It was a great pleasure to join, once again, the Chaos family for another impressive four-day congress. Thank you all for coming!
Up for 2025 YH4F? 2024 Winner Sofía Aritz shares why it's a must-join!
The fourth round of Youth Hacking 4 Freedom (YH4F) is officially underway, with its opening event on 9 January. Sofía, one of the 2024 winners, gives us an insight into her project, how she came up with her idea, and her experience of the competition in general. Find out more! And do not forget to register for this edition!
T minus 23 years until 2048
"What will happen in the movement for software freedom in 2025? It is hard for me to make such predictions. What the past 20 years working for the Free Software Foundation Europe have taught me is to be prepared for the things you cannot predict." - Below a message from our president Matthias Kirschner to our readers.