Now that the update to version 0.4.0 is available directly from the Start9 repository—and no longer just via USB flashing (Beta version)—we have received the following notification:
(JoinMarket NG) for technical and security reasons, making Jam defunct on StartOS v0.3.5.1 and unavailable on v0.4.0 until that backend matures and a new version of Jam is built for it. You should back up your seed, move out any spendable funds (fidelity-bond funds stay locked until expiry), and uninstall Jam prior to updating to v0.4.0.
I deeply appreciate that Jam exists, and I use it frequently. In terms of privacy, it is brilliant and works exceptionally well.
Therefore, given that Samourai has been seized and its developer jailed, what alternative as reliable as Jam might be available within Start9-Registry should we proceed with the v0.4.0 update?
On the other hand, as an enthusiastic user of Tor—which, in terms of decentralisation and resilience, remains perhaps the best option available to us “average users”—is it possible to remain on version 3.5.1?
Specifically, can we keep all other apps updated, including BIP110 (Knots), without forcing a change to the core version (3.5.1)?
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It’s possible to remain on 0.3.5.1 by simply not clicking on the update button. You therefore will not get any updates. Which might be completely fine for some people.
As for Tor, it takes 2-5 seconds to click to install Tor on StartOS v040, a more recent version than that available on v0351 and with features to activate a relay.
For Jam, the developers are actively working on V2. You gain nothing (IMO) by staying on v0351 with a version of Joinmarket that barely works.
Thank you for your reply.
You are entirely correct regarding this:
As for Tor, it takes between 2 and 5 seconds to click to install Tor on StartOS v040, a more recent version than the one available in v0351, which includes features to activate a relay.
I recall that Satashi21 in Youtube has published videos demonstrating exactly how to execute these steps — I’ll probably have to follow her tutorials if I upgrade to v0.4.0.
In the case of Jam, the developers are actively working on version 2. In my opinion, you’ve got nothing to gain by sticking with v0351, which has a version of Joinmarket that barely works.
If Jam barely functions (IYO), what viable alternatives exist for Joinmarket should I update to v040?
Aside from Ashigaru or Wasabi, Jam is reputed to be the only reliable option—at least within the Start9 environment v3.5.1. Is that accurate, or are there other robust alternatives I should consider meanwhile for v0.4.0?
If you’re one of the few people in the world able to regularly mix funds on the previous version of Joinmarket, which is under constant attack, then I’d say continue. It certainly isn’t reliable for most people.
My best guess is V2 will be up and running in matter of months.
(On a personal note, since JAM stopped working properly and since my small amounts at any one time don’t merit Ashigaru use, the typically hope through the lightning network to get clean UTXOs – DYOR there)
OK. Thanks. I’ve had some really good experiences with Jam. Fortunately, I’ve been able to see some screenshots of the “beta version” of the new version on v0.4.0, which I think it’s great.
It’s clear that the less it’s used, the better the practices regarding decentralised UTXOs are being applied 
. But as far as the objective is concerned, I’ll say it again: nothing but good vibes, a great experience and a great project.