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Would an Ad-Sponsored OS/Desktop Work for OSS?

Posted by Cliff on from the discussions-on-another-form-of-funding dept.

Gentu asks: "OSNews runs a quick blurb and poll on the idea of an ad-sponsored OS or desktop. What is interesting is that the answer is a bit hard, as embarrassing commercialism is against the freedom of Open Source Software, while on the other hand, it is a handy and easy way to get funding for your favorite open source project. What does Slashdot think about the issue? Which is more important: the software and how we can continue evolving it by any legal means, or the licensing and philosophy behind it?"

4 of 437 comments (clear)

  1. What do I think? by Torgo's+Pizza · · Score: 4, Funny

    The first OS project on the ad-sponsored desktop would be the 'GNU Ad-Removal Project for the OS Ad-Sponsored Desktop'.

  2. precedent ... by jc42 · · Score: 5, Funny

    Well, there's plenty of precedent for this. For example, I'm typing this into a mozilla browser window. Now, mozilla is Open Source, but this page and nearly every other has an ad at the top.

    --
    Those who do study history are doomed to stand helplessly by while everyone else repeats it.
  3. Obligatory MC Reference by smoondog · · Score: 5, Funny


    Computer Monitor: $350
    Desktop PC: $1000
    Linux OS: Free
    Accidentally punching the monkey while trying to
    switch windows: Priceless

    -Sean

  4. Hmm... by Mr.Ned · · Score: 5, Funny

    I can see it now:

    "Free as in ad-sponsored"