[Am-info] Intel opts for Linux over Windows for Web devices

[Lewis A. Mettler]

My guess is that the price of Windows has a lot to do with it.  Windows
is overpriced for one of two reasons (or a little of both).  Bundling
and the lack of competitive alternatives. With a internet device (a
special use computer) the bundle of all of the other crap Microsoft
forces consumers to buy prices it out of the reasonable price range.
$200 retail for just the OS is ridiculous.

The second reason is related to the control over the product.  Linux and
Netscape offer a much better choice for an OEM if the product design is
important.  With those products the entire product can be controlled.

Linux is and will continue to be the OS of choice for many specialized
computer systems.  Not just because it is open source but rather because
the developer can control their own product.  And that control is very
important for special purpose systems.

Besides who wants to pay $75 for the Microsoft brand of networking if
they do not have a network?  And, anyone who does have a network wants
to pick their own technology to implement.  

Gene Gaines wrote:
> 
> "Intel opts for Linux over Windows for Web devices"
> 
> There's a headline to please!
> 
>   See story at http://www.silicon.com/a34907
> 
> Has Intel gained the strength OR has Microsoft weakened to the
> point that Intel can think about breaking free of the demands
> of their strategic partner?
> 
> I wonder if that fact that Microsoft markets such poor products
> or the fact that Gates has pissed on Intel in the past has
> anything to do with it?
> 
> In MHO, the people on this list, thanks to the good work of
> Janie Love and Ralph Nader's organization, have been able to
> make a small difference in changing public opinion of the
> Microsoft monster.  Without that changing public opinion, in
> MHO the DOJ case would not have been able to go forward.
> 
> At times, it seems that this list is splitting hairs, and
> arguring endlessly over small issues.  Guys, you are not
> beating on a dead horse.  Rather, you are hacking away at
> a very large, very powerful monster.
> 
> Thanks to all!
> 
> Keep hacking.
> 
> Gene Gaines
> gene.gaines@attglobal.net
> 
> If you are not able to access the above page, a summary is below,
> from Infobeat's email "Morning Coffee Edition @ 01/06/2000":
> 
>   "Intel opts for Linux over Windows for Web devices
> 
>   (Silicon.com)- Intel burned more bridges with Microsoft as it
>   announced plans to base a range of Internet access products around
>   Linux rather than Windows. The chip giant will develop Web appliances,
>   using its Celeron processor, which will enable home users to access
>   the Internet without needing a PC. The company said its decision to
>   use open source was driven by the needs of customers who helped
>   develop the product so far, with cost and flexibility being the key
>   factors. Rob Hailstone, research director at Bloor Research, believes
>   the move could put pressure on the alliance between Microsoft and
>  Intel: "There is a limited future for the Wintel alliance."
> 
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-- 
Lewis A. Mettler, Esq.(Attorney and Software Developer)
lmettler@LAMLaw.com
http://www.lamlaw.com/ (detailed review of the Microsoft antitrust
trial)