Buy European

Almost certainly blobs. The cost to create open would double the cost at a minimum. That and open modem firmware is illegal in the EU. https://fsfe.org/activities/radiodirective/radiodirective.en.html

From the images, which I assume are concept art rather than an actual debice, no it does not appear to have one. I've preordered myself as that's not a deal-breaker but it is disappointing, perhaps they will do something with the USB socket to allow it

I would definitely prefer hardware switches for things like camera, microphone or radio.

...BUT if I had to choose between a software switch or no switch I would choose to have a switch. Being able to do things with my phone without using the screen can come in handy.

I can double press the on/off button on my current phone to launch apps or turn on/off the flashlight. I use the latter and wish it could do more.

A switch for sharing my location with my wife would be nice. I would like a switch for recording sound in case my boss tries anything illegal. Being able to trigger Ripple with something physical would make it way more practical. Locking Molly could also be nice.

I assume that different people would find different uses for a configurable software switch.

Jolla is unlocked.

Definitely unlocked.

You can even buy a couple of sony xperia devices and install Jollas Sailfish os on if you don't want to wait for this one

On the website they say it is voluntary.

We have opened the Sailfish OS voluntary subscription as a way for anyone interested to support Sailfish OS development and the activities around it. Your support directly contributes to the long-term viability and existence of this unique European project. Together we can keep the platform open, independent and continuously improving.

Not yet, but you can provide your email to express interest at the bottom of the pre-order page.

From the FAQ

Will the Jolla Phone work outside Europe, can I use it e.g. in the U.S.? Will the Jolla Phone work outside Europe, can I use it e.g. in the U.S.?

Yes, we will design the cellular band configuration to enable global travelling as much as possible, including e.g. roaming in the U.S. carrier networks.

Edit: Wrong reply, wanted to add that to the comment about US "goofy bands"

Sadly not it appears.

Unless you know someone where they are delivering orders that will send it to you.

Sailfish OS is available on Sony and Fairphone. The Fairphone version is a community port and is missing support for Android apps as I understand it. The Sony version might be official.

Isnt that just degoogled android with a skin?

E os has a backdoor for gov intelligence.