How to use the command 'flatpak mask' (with examples)

Flatpak is a popular utility for software installation on Linux, offering a sandboxed environment for running applications. The flatpak mask command serves a crucial function by allowing users to prevent specific packages from being updated or installed automatically. This can be particularly useful for users who wish to maintain a stable version of a particular application while receiving updates for others. Through the examples below, we explore various use cases of the flatpak mask command, demonstrating its functionality and providing a clear understanding of its benefits.

Use case 1: Ignoring updates for a specific flatpak

Code:

flatpak mask com.example.app

Motivation:

Often, users may find themselves needing to retain a specific version of an application due to compatibility reasons, potential bugs in newer versions, or personal preference. In such scenarios, ensuring that an application isn’t automatically updated becomes important. By using the flatpak mask command, users can mask out updates, effectively freezing the application at its current version.

Explanation:

• flatpak: This is the command-line interface for managing flatpak app packages.
• mask: This subcommand specifies that you wish to mask a flatpak application, which prevents it from receiving updates.
• com.example.app: This represents the identifier of the flatpak application you intend to mask. You should replace com.example.app with the actual application ID of the app you want to control.

Example output:

Masked updates for com.example.app.

In this output, the command has been successfully executed, signifying that the specified application is now masked, hence won’t receive further updates unless unmasked.

Use case 2: Undo ignoring updates

Code:

flatpak mask --remove com.example.app

Motivation:

There may come a time when a user decides that they do want an application to be updated, possibly because issues with newer versions have been resolved or new features are appealing. In such cases, removing the mask to allow for automatic updates is necessary. This command facilitates the undoing of a previous mask command, re-enabling updates for the specified application.

Explanation:

• flatpak: The main command line interface used for managing flatpak packages.
• mask: This remains the subcommand for handling masking operations.
• --remove: This option indicates the action to unmask the application, allowing it to receive updates once more.
• com.example.app: This continues to represent the identifier of the application on which the operation is being performed. Substitute this with the actual application ID.

Example output:

Removed mask for com.example.app.

In this example, the output confirms the successful removal of the mask, meaning the application is now eligible for updates.

Use case 3: Listing all currently masked patterns

Code:

flatpak mask --system

or

flatpak mask --user

Motivation:

For users managing multiple applications, it can be crucial to have an overview of which applications are currently masked. Whether for system-wide masked applications or those specific to an individual user, this command helps in auditing and managing masked states, ensuring that no app goes overlooked.

Explanation:

• flatpak: The command-line interface for Flatpak.
• mask: Subcommand for handling operations related to masked applications.
• --system: This option directs the command to list applications masked at the system level.
• --user: When used, this shows applications masked for the current user.

Example output:

Masked applications:
- com.example1.app
- com.example2.app

In this output, you receive a list of applications that are currently masked. This output helps in tracking the masked applications for future updates or troubleshooting.

Conclusion:

The flatpak mask command is a vital tool for developers and end-users who require meticulous control over when and how their Flatpak-installed applications are updated. By exploring the use cases where an application might be masked or unmasked and how to review current masked applications, users can make informed decisions about their software environment. These capabilities ensure stability and customization in managing application updates within the Linux ecosystem.