Sound Switcher Indicator ‣ 2.3.5.2 + snap package

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I’ve released a minor Sound Switcher Indicator update, the version 2.3.5.2.

There’s no change in the present functionality of the application.

My main drive to make a new release was introducing a snap package for the indicator, which was a long-requested feature.

Snap package

Dmitry Maximov (eth481642) helped to get things going. He made an initial snapcraft assembly, which I’m grateful for.

I do, however, have some reservations about the use of snaps for such applications. By definition, every snap contains all parts required to run the application. In this case it means packaging Python and a few dozens of libraries alongside the source code, which results in an archive as big as 45 MB.

Just for your reference, a snap package for Ymuse, a full-blown natively-compiled app, is only 2.5 MB in size.

But okay, there was a demand for a snap so there is one now. Sound Switcher Indicator can be installed directly from the Snap Store:

Autolaunch

The snap format imposes a lot of restrictions on what the app can do. Among other things, it appears impossible to make the app start automatically for all users—as opposed to a conventional deb package.

This is mitigated by making an autostart link during the first run of the indicator, which has to happen manually. After that the indicator will start automatically after each login.

Ubuntu support in the PPA

My PPA provides packages for Ubuntu 18.04 Bionic Beaver, 20.04 Focal Fossa, and 20.10 Groovy Gorilla. Bug reports are welcome at the usual address.