(re: learning curve) I'm actually enjoying the process of learning a whole new OS that isn't constantly getting in my way. I like having software that's logically designed, like a Word Processor (Libre Writer) that actually has the "Print" button right on the main screen and hasn't buried it at the bottom of a sub-menu that's not even on the menu bar.
I remembered reading about it happening soon (?) for certain kinds of security updates (?) somewhere but it's almost 2am here and I'm having difficulty googling a reliable and thorough source but it sounds like users will have to subscribe to Ubuntu Pro to get certain kinds of update, although it might be free under certain circumstances.
I don't know, Ubuntu has treated me well the last decade but I'm willing to explore other distros if it seems like it'll be unnecessarily commericalized. Will read up more in the morning.