[subzero06]

If something is free, you are the product - it is "free" but Anonymous data is collected.

[____________g]

I generally agree with the sentiment—if something is free, there’s often a tradeoff. But when there’s a paid tier, the free version can act more like an entry point or hook to get users into the ecosystem, rather than relying on harvesting user data. In JetBrains’ case, broad adoption brings a lot of strategic value on its own (like establishing industry standards or building community mindshare), so it makes sense for them to offer a genuinely free version without necessarily treating users as the product.

[dist-epoch]

Exactly, this I why I won't use Linux or Firefox, I don't want to be the product.

[creatonez]

Most Linux distros are completely free of any builtin telemetry. Your fears are unwarranted.

[inetknght]

Linux is free as in free speech. It's also open source.

Firefox... is free as in free beer.