Unexpected Pro Upgrade & Lack of Proper Uninstallation on Linux

[reschkem]

Describe the bug

I am reporting an issue regarding the behavior of the PHCode Editor on Linux.

After installation, the application unexpectedly switched to a “Pro” version without any explicit user consent or clear explanation. This was confusing and raised concerns about transparency and control over the installed software.

More importantly, I encountered significant issues when attempting to remove the application:

• The built-in uninstall option (accessible via the menu) does not function properly.

• The application is not registered with the system package manager.

• Instead, it installs itself into user directories such as:

  • ~/.phoenix-code
  • ~/.local/bin/phcode
  • ~/.local/share/io.phcode
  • and others (including cache and config directories)

This makes proper removal unnecessarily difficult and non-transparent. In my case, I had to manually track and delete multiple directories across my home folder.

From a user perspective, this behavior is problematic because:

• It bypasses standard Linux package management practices.
• It leaves residual files in multiple locations.
• It gives the impression of software that is harder to remove than expected.

I strongly recommend:

1. Providing a fully functional and reliable uninstall mechanism.
2. Clearly documenting all installation paths.
3. Avoiding automatic or unclear transitions to paid (“Pro”) versions without explicit user action.
4. Optionally offering proper distribution packages to integrate with system package managers.

I hope this feedback helps improve the user experience and trustworthiness of your application.

Reproduction

No response

Expected behavior

No response

OS, Browser and Phoenix versions

Linux

logs or debug stack trace if any

Additional context

No response

[abose]

Thanks for taking the time to report this.

On the “Pro” part: Phoenix Pro is currently enabled as a free 30-day trial, and it does not require a credit card or any payment details. Nothing is charged automatically, and after the trial ends, the app simply continues as the free Community edition. We understand this can feel unexpected, and we’re adding a clearer opt-out flow and better messaging in upcoming releases.

Regarding uninstall:
On Linux, Phoenix Code is distributed as a standalone app rather than through a system package manager, which is why it doesn’t appear there. We do provide uninstall scripts that fully clean up installed files (including user directories), and all installation paths are documented here:
https://docs.phcode.dev/docs/Linux#automatic-installation

If something didn’t get cleaned up in your case, we’d definitely like to investigate.

On the broader Linux experience:
The current Linux build has some limitations. We’ve completed a major platform upgrade that significantly improves performance, consistency, and overall UX on Linux, and it will be available in the upcoming release.