|
Microsoft can't deny that outfitting a computer with a Desktop Linux operating system and software costs just 20% or less
than equipping a computer with Microsoft Windows XP and comparable software, and that
difference means real savings for computer users (News.com reported yesterday that MS is now selectively
offering super discounted pricing for their software to block Linux).
Recently, Microsoft sponsored some research which was widely
disseminated to conclude that desktop Linux is cheaper initially, but in
the long run (because of increased maintenance hassles) it is actually
more expensive. While such corporate sponsored research should always
be looked at dubiously, Microsoft has correctly identified the last
major hurdle blocking massive adoption. (Watch this funny video for
more proof!) Installing and maintaining desktop Linux is much more
difficult and time consuming than working with Microsoft Windows, and
that does raise the effective cost.
Next Tuesday, when we release version 4.0 of LindowsOS, desktop Linux
takes a giant leap forward and in so doing, overcomes Microsoft's
biggest remaining criticism of desktop Linux. One of our ongoing
initiatives at Lindows.com is an operating system with "zero
maintenance." The concept is a simple one - we want to remove the
hassles of managing your computer. Computers should be more like other
electronic appliances (think DVD, radio, toaster). They shouldn't
require learning a whole new language or taking hours to set up
and maintain. While we haven't fully realized our zero maintenance
initiative (there's still a tiny bit of effort that the user has to
apply), as of next Tuesday, Linux becomes easier to manage than
Microsoft Windows for personal computers.
Here are a few capabilities in LindowsOS 4.0 - many of which are firsts
for either Microsoft Windows or Linux or both.
One click configuration
I just purchased a new IBM x30 laptop and with
a single mouse click I was able to install copies of all
of the software programs from my old computer onto my new computer.
This saved me hours in finding CDs, running installation programs, and
typing in registration data. Similarly, new employees of Lindows.com
get their computers set up with a custom suite of programs in just a
single click.
|
|
One click operating system install
Lindows.com is the first company to offer
major operating system upgrades with just a single mouse click.
LindowsOS 3.0 users will be able to upgrade to the significantly
improved version 4.0 with a single click -- which is the first time
that computer users have been able to do major operating system upgrades,
completely digital, with just a single mouse action.
|
One click software install
Installing software can be a time consuming
task that works differently for each program, but with LindowsOS 4.0, a user
can install software with just a single click -- whether you're installing a commercial
office suite or a free game. We've worked hard to perfect the system and
we now see success rates in the high 90's -- even for users over slower modems.
|
|
Upgrading apps: one-click easy
|
One click upgrading
Keeping software up to date has always been a laborious
task, but not with LindowsOS 4.0. LindowsOS keeps track of the software
installed on your computer and permits you to update any of the software
programs with the same one click ease as when the original program was
installed. A graphical user interface shows which programs have available
updates and lets you select which ones you wish to upgrade.
|
Plug-N-Play Support
The launch of LindowsOS 4.0 means that for the first time, desktop
Linux can plug-n-play a wide range of devices,
including printers, memory cards, hard drives, CD-RWs, digital cameras, and
even firewire devices.
|
Most of these innovations are embracing the concept of complete digital
delivery,
which is fast and cost effective -- an area where LindowsOS is leading
the way. Conventional wisdom says that "Linux is harder to use" and
some analysts are now parroting this blindly. Next Tuesday, we'll
release LindowsOS 4.0 and with it will be a new era when Linux is
easier to use and lower in cost to maintain than any other software.
I'll explain how you can be one of the first to get it next week.
-- Michael
The Michael's Minute Meter
View the Michael's Minute Meter Report
|
