Explore how Linux offers privacy and control without sacrificing usability as AI becomes ubiquitous
The Download
- Linux is a good way to avoid AI because it can be private and controlled.
- Recent changes make Linux easier to use, with apps that install in just one click.
- Switching to Linux may not support all games and apps you use now.
AI is coming to your computer whether you like it or not—but what can you do about it?
Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs are filled with AI; it’s even in the name. Apple is expected to add many new AI features in iOS 26 and macOS 26, and Google continues its AI expansion. But what if you don’t want AI on your computer? What if you care about AI’s environmental impact, privacy concerns, and the ethical issues of using data without permission? The answer might be to switch to Linux. Yes, Linux.
Linux is a viable alternative for users who want to avoid AI integrations popping up in operating systems like macOS and Windows.
Out of Control
As more features are added, we have less control over our computers. Dropbox, iCloud, Copilot, and all of Apple’s Continuity features rely on the cloud, continuously transmitting data. AI is already integrated into our computers, powering text autocorrection, recognizing friends and family in photos, and more.
These features are amazing and convenient, but they have a price. Remember when you could put your Mac to sleep, and days later, the battery would barely drop? That doesn’t happen now because your computer never really sleeps. And there are privacy concerns with computers constantly communicating with the platform owners—Microsoft, Google, and Apple.
The AI wave is sweeping across every aspect of our computing lives. There’s concern about excessive energy use and the mass collection of training data without creators’ consent. Additionally, the next generation of PCs includes extra silicon to process AI on-device. Computers have reached a point where they are fast, last all day on a charge, and operate without needing a fan—why complicate this?
The Year of Linux on the Desktop
The solution to this has long been Linux, an open-source operating system that offers as much privacy and control as you want. The problem has been its lack of user-friendliness. Previously, installing a new app required opening a terminal window—like those seen in movies—and typing in complex commands.
However, things have changed. It’s now possible to buy computers with Linux pre-installed, but you can also easily install it on your current computer. You can even try it out without altering your existing setup.
Installing apps is much easier now, with app-store-like repositories allowing one-click installation. You’ll find all the necessary apps, like Slack, readily available. If not, there are alternatives.