I mostly used Ubuntu based desktop distros and frequently had issues with the 6 monthly update cycle. Problems with Fedora too. I have not had a single update issue with Manjaro. I often have different distros running in VM's and whilst Arch has been the most reliable, most are not.

I also setup loads of Linux servers in my I.T. job that I used to have, so I have plenty experience.

The bottom line is Manjaro desktop has been ridiculously reliable for me. Therefore other peoples hate of it washes over me and is meaningless.

I've defended Manjaro many a time, despite the mistakes they've made. The main reason for this, Manjaro is the most stable Linux distro I've used.

However, the main reason I ditched Windows as my primary OS was telemetry (and bloat). If Manjaro introduce this, it absolutely must be opt-in.

I actually contribute to the Steam hardware survey as I want to ensure Valve, but more so hardware manufacturers, are aware desktop Linux systems for gaming and creative work are viable. But it's my choice to contribute.

If Manjaro don't implement this as an opt-in then I'll be installing Arch. It will be a pain to configure my software again but needs must.

Interesting. I hadn't heard about this. I got this response from Xiaomi earlier today after complaining they mis-sold me a phone as their unique selling point was the ability to unlock the bootloader.

"We hope you could understand, that such an operation will disable some of the built-in security features of the system, and those security features are part of what keeps the operating system safe and your data secure from exposure or corruption. And this misuse will void your phone's warranty and it may render your phone useless depending on the security measures in place on your phone."