So I followed the setup instructions word for word, including restarting after the initial setup is complete, and when I select a flatpak to install and click on the ‘blue button’, the app center opens and informs me there is NO software it can use to install/open the flatpak. This is a new clean install of Ubuntu 20.04 and except for flatpak, everything is working great. What could I be doing wrong?
This is an issue with Ubuntu.
As an short summary: As the setup guide mentions, installing the Flatpak plugin for GNOME Software installs a second version of GNOME Software using the Debian package. However, the Snap version of GNOME Software is still installed.
The system gets the information what links an application can handle by a data file. Both the Debian version and the Snap version of GNOME Software have their own file. But Ubuntu is likely configured to give priority to the Snap version, which does not support Flatpak.
The easiest solution would be to uninstall the Snap version of GNOME Software, which should hopefully fix it.
Alternatively, you can use the drop down at the end of the install button on the Flathub website to get an installation command.
Or you can use an alternative client for Flatpak, such as Bazaar.
As a final note:
Ubuntu 20.04 is not supported anymore by security updates, you should not use it on a fresh installation. You should use the latest 26.04 version.
“Alternatively, you can use the drop down at the end of the install button on the Flathub website to get an installation command.” and that’s what I did. It too didn’t work. Maybe I’ll try Bazaar. Can’t install latest Ubuntu because I’d have to update my BIOS first (nothing higher than 20.04 can ‘see’ my monitor… any monitor) and I’m terrified of updating the BIOS and having something go wrong. Can’t afford a new computer. Old and on a fixed income. But thanks. I’ll try Bazaar, and as a last resort try updating the BIOS.
Looks like you need a working installation of Flatpak to install Bazaar? I get that stupid comment too long error every time I go through the Flatpak install procedure so that’s a no-go.