If I only pick English, why does the installer take 10 minutes downloading language packs? Can't it just download that language if I add it to the OS? This would save a ton of time for everyone since most people only install 1 or 2 languages.
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I know, right?
The reason why is because your primary language may be English, but many languages can be used in displlayed pages or even within software depending on the nationality of the source (all sources and code used are vetted.)
It may seem redundant to have additional language packs, but having them at the ready if needed will save you a bigger headache later on - especially if you are struggling to find which language pack was needed.
It never took very long on any of my installs, so you may test your network connection for speed.
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Welcome to the Forum!
You could install it offline. When I did it that Way it will only be installed English and my local Language. And when I update the System only these will be updated, too.
When you look at other operating systems they take the approach to install only what you request and if you need more you can install them one at a time. There is absolutely no need to download all of the possible languages! And if I visit a Spanish website, it is displaying images and text in Spanish yet it has NO IMPACT on the operating system itself. The only time you need additional languages installed is if you want to translate to that or from that other language.
You are not wrong.
There are benefits to installing the language packs for an OS that is globally chosen. It allows all users the ability to immediately read and understand the UI on their screen - you can easily imagine trying to navigate how to install your native language pack on a new system when you are completely uncertain about what is being said on the screen in front of you - especially as a New GnuLinux user entirely.
But there are costs, including the addition of those language packs increasing bandwidth and adding some bloat to the system.
Personally, I think it is worth the cost. I am happy to know that a Dutch or German speaker has immediate access to the UI in a readable format even if that does not apply to me personally.
However, it is valid to point out that the user installing the system chooses their language at the outset of installation and having a choice, there, to install the other packs or not would be a great benefit to all users.
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