Linked by Eugenia Loli-Queru on Fri 4th Aug 2006 00:55 UTC
In all appearance of an ad-supported operating system is probably not that far off. This article takes a look at some of the finer points behind an OS which is financed with ad views, and more specifically the logic behind a free version of Windows which could make this a reality. There are a few issues which must be resolved first, but with Microsoft refining Windows Live and shifting some of their focus to advertising, many of the pieces seem to be falling into place. A few years ago we featured an editorial and poll on the subject here at OSNews.
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Member since:
2006-07-29
We shouldn't be comparing an ad-based OS with ad-based web pages. I'm often willing to put up with ad-based web pages not because they're free (though that helps), but primarily because I use the web to locate and consume information. Ads, when done properly, actually make it easier for me to locate the information I want.
Unlike most web pages, the applications that run on a desktop operating system are primarily intended for content authoring. This requires giving the user an environment that promotes an efficient workflow, supports concentrating on the activity at hand and uses all available resources (screen and processing) to give the user the best possible experience. I think that advertisements are antithetical to this and that most people that use an application for serious authoring will gladly pay for something ad-free.