mastodon 4.8.0-nightly.2026-10-06We build custom laptops, mini PCs and smartphones with focus on privacy, security and customization.
Discover the freedom of Dasharo coreboot firmware, true repairability and all the customization options that we offer.
We’re leaving Facebook / Instagram / Meta / X.
We no longer want to contribute to platforms whose algorithms amplify hate, polarization, and AI-driven propaganda.
We will remain active on Mastodon and Reddit.
Question for you: which platforms do you think we should also be active on?
On recommendation from a few people in the community, we made one.
NovaCustom now has its own RSS feed, available on our website.
🔐 PGP encryption is one of the best ways to protect your communication, but many people think it's too complicated.
It doesn't have to be.
We've explained PGP in a simple, easy to understand way, so anyone can grasp the basics.
Read it here:
https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/understanding-pgp-encryption/
We love cool open-source projects like @BusKillin@mastodon.social, a USB kill cord for laptops. However, installing its software, especially on @QubesOS@mastodon.social, used to be complicated.
That’s why NovaCustom invested in BusKill, starting with a $200 no strings attached contribution. After discussions with lead developer @MichaelAltfield@mastodon.social , we’ve now created a much simpler way to install BusKill on Qubes OS.
Want to read more? click the link below.
https://novacustom.com/bounty-available-for-buskill-contrib-package-in-qubes-os/
EU Tech is FINALLY getting attention! 🇪🇺 😄 👏
NovaCustom signed the European Technology Sovereignty Declaration for open, competitive and resilient digital infrastructure in Europe: https://extranet.greens-efa-service.eu/public/media/file/1/9270
Declaration signed together with:
@OVHcloud@mastodon.social, @monnett@mastodon.social, @Mastodon@mastodon.social, @nextcloud@mastodon.xyz, Cloud Temple, Heinlein Group, QuantWare, @clevercloud@fosstodon.org, @protonprivacy@mastodon.social, Multiverse Computing, @eurosky.social and @ecosia@mastodon.social.
Last year, we visited #NixCon25 to showcase our laptops that are running #NixOS seamlessly. 💻 🐧 💖 🚀
During #FOSDEM26, NovaCustom met Sebastian Kraus again, one of the board members of the Nix OS Foundation.
We are very proud to say that we now officially support @nixos_org@chaos.social. We even have it as a preinstalled option on our website!
👉 Check out our latest blog post: https://novacustom.com/nix-os-support/
There’s a computer inside your computer.
It runs below your OS.
You don’t control it.
It’s called Intel Management Engine.
We give you the option to disable it.
Because you should be in control, not hidden firmware.
Thought some people here might appreciate this setup:
Qubes OS, a Qubes OS super key, and a full physical Dvorak keyboard layout.
Privacywashing is real.
Big Tech wants you to believe your data is safe, while their business model still depends on collecting it.
- Private mode does not equal real privacy
- AI tools train on your input
- Settings often create a false sense of control
Real privacy requires conscious choices, not marketing promises.
#privacy #bigtech #opensource #dataprotection
Read more: https://novacustom.com/privacywashing-how-big-tech-companies-keep-collecting-your-data/
Curious how @QubesOS@mastodon.social works in practice?
Our latest Knowledge Base article takes you on a tour through Qubes OS. Learn how Qubes are managed, how applications stay isolated, how disposable Qubes work, and why this security-first operating system is trusted by privacy-conscious users.
Read the full article:
https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/a-tour-through-qubes-os/
Our new UV laser machine was installed last week
With it, we can now create custom logos on the cases of the SHIFTphone 8.1, and the video below shows the machine in action.
And this is only the beginning.
In the near future, we also want to offer USB keyboards in almost any layout imaginable. And if your preferred layout is not available, you will even be able to design your own custom layout.
What kind of logos or designs would you like to see on phone cases?
What is Heads firmware!?
Check it out 👉 https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/what-is-heads-firmware/
Hello community!
Once we have an AMD openSIL compatible processor on this planet, we would love to introduce new laptop series. Of course with Dasharo coreboot firmware.
Your feedback is needed so we know what are important features for you.
Please share your thoughts here!
More people want to break away from Big Tech, but don’t know where to start.
That’s why we created 2 configurations at NovaCustom to make it easier:
🔒 → PrivacyGuard: for people who want to step away from Big Tech and choose a laptop without tracking, focused on privacy and digital autonomy
🛡️ → SecurityTitan: for those who truly want maximum security and the most secure laptop possible, without compromises
Curious which one fits you?
👉 novacustom.com
Today we engraved a daily reminder.
Never give up, never surrender!
For most companies, a privacy policy is a necessary evil. For us, it’s a priority.
At NovaCustom, privacy isn’t a checkbox, it’s a responsibility.
We’ve updated and clarified our privacy policy to make one thing clear: we only collect what’s necessary, we don’t track you, and we’re transparent about everything we do.
In a world of constant data breaches, trust should be earned.
Good news: IodéOS Premium is now included by default on the SHIFTphone 8.1. No subscription needed.
More tracker blocking, less hassle, just standard.
Privacy shouldn’t be an extra.
Want to read more?
https://novacustom.com/iodeos-premium-is-now-included-by-default/
A new law recently went into effect in Australia 🇦🇺 that requires social media platforms to verify the age of their users. 😡
The concern is that sensitive data could fall into the wrong hands or be misused by the government.
👉 https://novacustom.com/age-verification-affects-everyones-privacy/
Introduction of fwupd support + Capsule Updates
We wrote a new blog post about fwupd support + Capsule Updates.
Check it out here: https://novacustom.com/introduction-of-fwupd-support-capsule-updates/
Today, we are highlighting @brave@mastodon.social: a privacy-friendly web browser. 😄
https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/privacy-friendly-web-browser-brave/
Our PrivacyGuard models have the Brave browser pre-installed by default! 💻 👏
Last weekend we were present at @fosdem@fosstodon.org
A weekend full of inspiration, technology, and meaningful conversations.
It's always good to be part of a community that continues to build the future.
Thanks to everyone we spoke to.
¡Hola a todos! 🇪🇸
We keep innovating 🚀
Our website is now also available in Spanish.
Why privacy is important? 👀
This is a complex question, but you will understand why after reading our article 👉
https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/why-privacy-is-important/
Privacy and security are becoming increasingly important. 🔐🛡️
But good explanations? They are often either too technical or too superficial.
That is why we are building a knowledge base that bridges the gap.
Between complex technology and understandable explanations.
Between “Big Tech” and real alternatives.
What should not be missing from our knowledge base?
Imagine this…
You send a private message to a friend. Just something personal.
But before it reaches them, it gets automatically scanned. Not because you did anything wrong, but because everyone is being checked.
That’s the direction proposals like #Chatcontrol and #ProtectEU are heading.
Privacy feels normal… until it’s gone.
What do you think about this new legislation?
We’ve offered laser engraving on our laptops for a while now.
Some people choose a small, subtle logo.
Others go for a full custom design.
What about you?
Minimal, or fully unique?
Ever wondered why it's so difficult to stop scrolling?
It is not just willpower. Personalized recommendations, infinite scroll, and notifications are all designed to keep you engaged for as long as possible.
Curious how it works and what you can do about it?
🔗 https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/how-social-media-platforms-keep-you-addicted/
Your OS probably says more about you than you think 😅
What are you running, and why does it suit your way of working or living?
We will be attending COMPUTEX as visitors.
COMPUTEX takes place from June 2 to June 5. We will be in Taipei the entire week, exploring new technologies, gaining inspiration and connecting with others across the industry.
Also going? Send us a message and let’s meet up 👋
We often see two clear preferences in laptops.
Some people want something small, lightweight, and easy to carry.
Others prefer a larger system with maximum performance.
Where do you stand?
Would you prefer a 16-inch laptop like the V56, or a 14-inch laptop like the V54?
We build customizable laptops with quite a lot of options already.
But there’s always room for improvement.
What are we still missing? Or what could we do better?
Wireless or wired?
Mouse + keyboard.
Pick one, and why.
🔋 convenience
🔌 reliability
Curious where people land.
We’ve noticed some laptop features get constant hype, while others quietly matter a lot more.
In your opinion, what’s the most overrated feature right now?
And what’s the most underrated?
We’re curious to hear your thoughts.
Struggling with obsolete templates in Qubes OS?
This guide will help 👉 https://novacustom.com/knowledge-base/how-to-update-obsolete-templates-in-qubes-os/
