I know that this [closed] question is similar, so I'd like to be more specific:
Using Ubuntu Phone, what data will be stored "in the cloud"? Namely
- Contacts
- Calendar
- Call history
- Email?
Will I need to get an Ubuntu One account to be able to use Ubuntu Phone (as I need a Google account for Android)?
Can Ubuntu Phone be configured such that it's sync behaviour is like for the old Windows Mobile series, i.e. sync between laptop/phone only via USB, avoiding the cloud completely and working even without an internet connection?
It seems like even an open source OS like Android are quite hard to set up such that your personal data doesn't "rush off" to Google accidentally, so I am wondering where Ubuntu mobile OS stands with regards to control over your data. I noticed that the Ubuntu Tablet site states the following:
Ubuntu One already has millions of users on Ubuntu, Android, Windows and Mac. Deeply integrated on Ubuntu devices, it provides free storage, paid-for music streaming services and a foundation for cloud-based services from operators and device makers.
...which doesn't clearly define what can or has to be shared and how easy it is to turn it off. I couldn't find anything about Ubuntu Phone on that matter.
I also just found this question on Reddit about the Ubuntu Edge phone, and the following answer:
We're entering a really interesting phase where in a sense our very own tools spy on us.
We will certainly have an easier time providing transparency on the origin of the code in the platform than, say, your average android device, where it's all a big hacky mush. The core OS which will be updated regularly on the Ubuntu phones is all traceable directly back to standard Ubuntu source and binary packages.
There will be a core piece on each phone which handles the hardware, consisting of kernel and drivers and firmware and interfaces to things like the radio. That's where unhealthy things could creep in from manufacturers and carriers. We can offer... constructive guidance there.
Unfortunately again no details about the control over your data, unless it will be totally app-specific what data will be shared... but I guess there will be a stock set of contacts, phone, email and appointments apps, right?