Linked by Eugenia Loli-Queru on Tue 22nd May 2007 00:12 UTC, submitted by Jon Dough
Why is it that the average computer user still chooses to spend hundreds of dollars on Windows or Mac when there are countless Linux alternatives that they could download, install and make use of completely free of charge? Some answers here.
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RE: Misconception: Is linux a consumer choice?
by tomcat on Wed 23rd May 2007 18:59
in reply to "Misconception: Is linux a consumer choice?"
Member since:2006-01-06
Member since:
2006-06-22
The choice is Windows or MacOS... but MAcOS is Apple exclusive.
So really its Windows Vista or maybe if your lucky and get a choice you could have Windows XP, or win 2003. Where does Linux figure. TBH it cant unless Dell makes a big noise about competitive Linux systems that cost less than their windows counterparts.
Most PC users wont read tech sites, magazines or whatever that may indulge in discussing the novelty of a software package built by open source contributions.
Linux doesn't factor because most people don't know it exists.
Linux doesn't factor because most people think they have to pay for things... let alone something as complex as an Operating System, $300 is quality assurance/certification in most people minds. Though this is changing with the downloading generation.
Linux/FOSS needs marketing guru's and mainstream press reports.
Linux/FOSS is doing just fine technically, sure its not Windows quality in terms of usability... but FOSS is relentless, and given more uptake and contributions, the future is extremely bright.
Edited 2007-05-22 23:29