Linux on desktop PCs (Economist) [LWN.net]

The Economist examines the prospects for Linux on the desktop. "More specifically, two windows, so to speak, of opportunity appear to be opening. One is that the next version of Windows, called Longhorn, has been delayed to 2006 at the earliest, in part by Microsoft's realisation that it has to tighten up security a lot more.... If Linux can establish a good reputation during this period, it might look even more attractive once Longhorn, which will be expensive and is likely to require new hardware, is released."

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Linux on desktop PCs (Economist)

Posted Apr 16, 2004 17:07 UTC (Fri) by purslow (guest, #8716) [Link]

"Software to manage personal finances or organise digital photos is also missing.
In theory these programs could all be written but, without a huge increase in users,
code-writers will not bother"

Most of the problem with getting Linux widely accepted on desktops
is the appalling ignorance of journalists & corporate executives
about what is actually available today in any regular Linux distribution.

"It can still be a nightmare for home users to install"

Ditto: Linux is easier to install than Windows XP on a virgin machine
& how many Windows users actually install Windows themselves ?

"unless bought as part of a commercial package such as Sun's,
it does not come with a help-desk"

No mention of the vast community of Linux users ready to help
via mailing-lists, forums & documentation.

It's shocking how ill-informed the Economist can be when it chooses.