I never hear anyone mention aptitude, which works with apt libraries, has a complete menu-driven ncurses interface (if invoked without arguments), and has been around for quite some time. Is it not considered a reasonable alternative or perhaps people don’t want to install an extra utility?

Ubuntu really brought some great quality of life features to Debian and Linux in general over time.

I just installed Ubuntu 22.04 and the latest Debian in a VM recently to compare them. I found the Gnome desktop frustrating to use in its vanilla form with missing window controls like minimize or maximize buttons and everything hidden under the activities button. Also the app store is a great addition for beginners who don’t know where to start to look for software.

And what surprised me was that Debian collects user data as well! You have the option to opt out of course, but it’s the same thing as Ubuntu. Collect data when an application crashes or to know what applications you have installed for statistics so they can know what apps to add in the install ISO in the future.

Good lord that took forever. I use Debian based distros sometimes and was always puzzled how terrible apt looked.