Linux for the masses
By now, it's common knowledge that Dell is offering a computer preloaded with Ubuntu (an easier-to-use-than -most Linux distro). This was huge for Linux users everywhere - it means that people who aren't huge nerds are starting to use it.
The Linux community's growth among non-geeks now has something else to look forward to. It appears that Walmart's super-economy (sub $300) line of desktops may offer a Linux version as soon as this year.
And it looks like we might soon see other big PC makers preloading Ubuntu. At Ubuntu Live, Shuttleworth told his audience that they would indeed be seeing "more top-tier PC manufacturers offering Ubuntu pre-installed." Looks like Ubuntu is really pushing for the mainstream.
Insane. I can actually imagine seeing Ubuntu be a serious player in the field. ie We could have Ubuntu pop out of the 'Linux' category that we now have when talking about operating systems: Windows, MacOS, Linux, other. That'd be neat.
What I'd really like to see for the masses (and maybe even us geeks) is a cheap Linux box that's ready to run headless and interface with Macs and Windows PCs. I think a cheap Linux box, some clever software and a huge hard drive would be an extremely marketable product. It could actually make backing up computers happen in normal households. I wonder if I'm seeing too much potential in this - the status quo is quite a force to be reckoned with...
2 comments:
Have you heard about Windows Home Server? It seems like a really cool (and well-done) product that eliminates the need for the hypothetical headless Linux box you're talking about.
Btw: I'd argue that even XP is still miles better than the Ubuntu desktop experience. I tried using Ubuntu exclusively for a week or two, then switched back full time after realizing that I wasn't gaining anything from the increased headache.
Good call rolocroz. I did see the stuff about Windows Home Server and I was appropriately impressed - it seems Microsoft can get some things right even if Vista has ended up boosting XP sales as people 'upgrade' from Vista.
Home Server has the potential to make people's home networks useful for more than just accessing the appropriate tubes. The only issue I see is that the Windows box seems to hook up with only Microsoft's stuff. Lame.
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