OFW vs. proprietary BIOS

[Edward Cherlin]

On Fri, Aug 29, 2008 at 5:07 PM, Mitch Bradley <wmb at laptop.org> wrote:
> Edward Cherlin wrote.
>> I also want to see Open Firmware replace proprietary BIOSes everywhere.
>
> I'd like that too, but it won't happen.  The market forces that drive
> the computer business still favor proprietary thinking, notwithstanding
> the many FOSS arguments to the contrary.  Intel calls the shots by
> controlling a big percentage of the silicon designs, and Intel is
> pushing UEFI, partially because it allows them to keep their
> chipset-dependent startup code proprietary.  The board manufacturers do
> what the dominant silicon vendor allows them to do.

If you would be willing, I can put you in touch with companies that
make only Linux computers, who would be delighted to get out from
under Intel as well as Microsoft. RMS would give you an endorsement.
I'm sure we can get you Slashdotted. Want to give it a try?

I spent 17 years in high-tech market analysis. My professional opinion
is that you have a good shot, and that the XO is the sum of all of
Microsoft's and Intel's fears. (Otherwise they wouldn't be pushing for
dual-boot, and the resulting multitude of side-by-side comparisons.)
Certainly, it's an uphill battle overall, but you are starting from an
unassailable niche.
-- 
Silent Thunder [ 默雷 / शब्दगर्ज / شبدگر ج ] is my name,
And Children are my nation.
The Six Worlds are my dwelling place,
And Truth my destination.