> I can't stand Apple's required software like iTunes.

Required for what? I haven't opened iTunes even once in many years.

You don't need it even if you want to do local backups on macOS, you can do it all from an easy menu in Finder aka file explorer.

iTunes has not been required for years now.

I don't have iTunes, use NextCloud to move pictures of the iPhone. But you're right, I really hate it that I can't just move pictures off with a cable. It worked for me on Ubuntu but has been nothing but pain on Arch, I tried a lot of different things. Really annoying. In fact, I'd say it's the one main annoying thing for me (that and the fact that the NextCloud docker image people refuse to add .heic support and I'm too noob to do it myself ;) )

I only ever connect my iPhone for debugging purposes (can be done wirelessly btw), and sometimes I hook it up to transfer files faster to VLC, but that will go away once I have Plex up and running.

Between streaming services, cloud backup, iCloud Drive (like Dropbox), and Airdrop (secure file sending via peer-to-peer WIFI) there‘s absolutely no need to own a Mac or PC to drive an iPhone.

I‘m also holding out for Asahi though, and hope they get things like Proton to run.

What does that have to do with smart phones?