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I see your point, the simple fact is dual-booting Linux-based operating systems on hardware intended for use with Microsoft Windows is the norm, and without thi
by tmzt 14y ago
I see your point, the simple fact is dual-booting Linux-based operating systems on hardware intended for use with Microsoft Windows is the norm, and without this source of computer systems a free license is nearly a moot point.
If ARM becomes dominant the idea that Microsoft can simply restrict access because that's how it was done in the past (even citing Apple as an example) simply means they can restrict a majority of all hardware sold from running a different system, extending their monopoly control through partnership agreements to a new generation of hardware.
Generally, PC compatibles boot an OS from a sector on the hard drive and provide a standard interface to the bootloader to hardware (BIOS, PCI enumeration, and now UEFI). While ARM is now beginning to adopt a similar boot system (in UEFI on RT devices) it's not carrying with it the openness we once enjoyed with PCs. This is the problem.
- recoiledsnake 14y ago>If ARM becomes dominant the idea that Microsoft can simply restrict access because that's how it was done in the past (even citing Apple as an example) simply means they can restrict a majority of all hardware sold from running a different system, extending their monopoly control through partnership agreements to a new generation of hardware. If iPads take over computing and desktops(along with Microsoft) die, won't the same scenario play out? Also, if ARM becomes dominant, won't a secton of the ARM devices be iPads and Android tablets? Why do you think Windows RT tablets will be the majority? >While ARM is now beginning to adopt a similar boot system (in UEFI on RT devices) it's not carrying with it the openness we once enjoyed with PCs. This is the problem. As an aside, ARM is different in the sense that each ARM SoC needs special drivers and coding.