Disability and transition to Kubuntu

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Hi! My name is Paweł. I have a mobility impairment. I use my computer with a touchpad (set to maximum speed) and an on-screen keyboard. I’ve been trying to switch from Windows 11 to Kubuntu for some time now. I’m a fan of the KDE Project. I’ve been editing videos in KDEnlive for years. However, I’m having some issues with the transition. I hope someone can help me understand them.

Let’s start with the on-screen keyboard. I launched Kubuntu Live from a USB flash drive to see how it works on my laptop. Some features were unavailable in this mode, especially in accessibility. Does KDE Plasma have its own on-screen keyboard? I haven’t found one, and the keyboard from the Onboard store doesn’t work properly. It hides behind other windows and doesn’t allow me to enter text into text fields. I’m having trouble configuring it.

My second issue is KDE Connect. I’m looking for a Linux solution that will replace Phone Link. In Windows, I use it to remotely control my Android phone. Due to my disability, I’m unable to use my phone with my hands. Thanks to Phone Link, I can answer calls and use various Android apps in a window. What’s it like with KDE Connect? I feel like the YouTube videos describing this program provide conflicting information. This may simply be due to the different configurations and hardware used by the people who describe it. Does KDE Connect support screen mirroring?

Is there anything else I should consider as a person with a disability in the context of KDE Plasma? I’d appreciate any responses and suggestions.

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hi, welcome.

there is one rather frustrating aspect of KDE connect with a smartphone or tablet from the desktop, and that is the mobile device must be unlocked and “awake” for KDE connect to access it for any of the features.

so if you already have a way to keep the phone screen awake and open to inputs, then that problem is solved, but without that you phone will be unreachable unless you can get the screen to light up.

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