Basic questions of somebody new to pine64

[bcnaz]

Hello, I hope you all are having a nice day.

I am very new to Pine64 and interested in the PinePhone and PineTab.
Also I do not really have a clue of Linux, so I will probably ask quite some stupid questions. I hope that's okay.

But for now just two questions about Pine64 hardware in general and one about operating systems (this one is probably a bit embarrassing).

A big reason why I am looking at the pine devices is that I really don't like the way most phones and tablets do not get (os/security) updates after 2-3 years anymore (the other reason is privacy).
I don't really understand why it is that way for phones but not for pc's, which also support a variety of hardware. I always read something about drivers and chip producers not providing patches or something along those lines.
So how about the pine hardware in that regard? Is it that open source that as long as the community supports it, it will be updated?

How about repairs? I think I read somewhere that some things are screwed that would usually be glued - for repairability. As the hardware is mostly for tinkerers I reckon it is much easier to repair than other phones/tablets ? Is it possible to have it repaired by Pine64 if i don't have the skills to do it? Obviously the devices are not very expensive but I really dont like the idea of throwing away a device because of minor issues.

Are the Linux versions available for the PinePhone and PineTab "the same" as the desktop variants? What I mean by this is: If i get a certain distribution running on a device, will it be able to run all applications that would run on a desktop (from a compatibility, not a performance point of view of course).

I really hope you guys don't mind helping out someone who very much is not a power user. ^^
Thanks to anyone answering my questions.

Welcome !
   I have been using Linux for over twenty years,  though I have had zero training.

I think most or at least many of us here,  do place a bit of importance on our privacy.

My approach is different than most though.

If it breaks,  I usually just start over,  just install fresh software or a new operating system.
If an operating system does not work for you,  just try a different one.

Since the Pine phone runs pretty well from a micro sd card,  and it is pretty painless to download the operating system(s) from the internet,
  ...then just flash that operating system to a micro sd card.
Put the flashed card in your Pine phone and turn it on. 
 If an update or something breaks the system, just repeat those steps.

If you store a lot of data on your phone (or other device) this can be impractical,  ( you could use external devices for storage.)

This can be useful for security,  as far as not having your stored data/information exposed to the internet.

And it reduces down time,  you could spend hours, days, weeks "trying" to repair a broken system.
or simply start fresh, it takes just a minute or two to swap your micro sd card.

The GREAT thing about Linux is that you do have so many choices,    Whatever works for you.

There are at least 3 distributions of operating systems that currently 'work pretty good' just "As Is" out of the box at the moment.
 >  and a lot more systems available that you can use,   if you happen to have some Linux skills.

However,  you will have to exert some effort yourself,  it does require you to keep your eyes open, read the forum, ask questions etc...
  (This can be a good way to get into Linux,   as it is easy to get discouraged if it breaks and you cannot fix it )

*NOTE :  This method may not be suitable for everyone.  but just a starting point for some. *(Especially if you have zero Linux experience)