Intel to Increase Linux Support, Release Centrino Drivers

jonman_d writes "ZDNet UK is reporting that Intel has promised to increase Linux support by releasing Linux drivers at the same time it releases Windows drivers for its hardware. According to the general manager of Intel's Software and Solutions Group, Intel wants Linux users to be able to use their hardware as easily, or easier, than any other hardware on the planet." Pingla writes in with more good news: "Intel promises to release Linux drivers for its Centrino chipset at the same time it releases drivers for Windows. An article featuring Lindows (aka Lin---s) on CNet has more." Sadly, the Centrino support will most likely be a proprietary driver, but it's better than nothing.

Comments

Strange New World

[tspauld98]

I have many contacts in commercial hardware and software companies that produce proprietary products. I advocate open source and it's benefits as often as I get the chance. For the most part, the message is heard and appreciated.

In fact, in a recent job interview with a software company, the following question was put to me: "What process or organization should a product company use to build product on open source platforms?" I thought this was an excellent question and I believe my answer was pertinent to this thread.

I actually don't have a problem with what Intel is doing and here's why. Not everything on an open source platform has to be open source. I know many of us are purists and would rather not hear this, but I believe it's true. One niche that proprietary products fill very well is as niche-filler. :) In other words, there are many applications and products out there that just will not work as an open source project. Some products lack the broad consumer base for it to mature fast enough in an open source mode for it to be useful to anybody. Does that mean that those kinds of products should not benefit from an open source platform?

Getting back to my answer to the interview question. I told the interviewer that a commercial software company that wants to build on an open source platform should organize by having a community development group which adds to and supports the open source product that they are using and by having a proprietary development group that uses the open source product to do their work without changing or contributing to the open source product. I added that there should be a wall between them lest you create a mini-SCO fiasco. I mentioned several examples of this that appear to be working. I think a company like CodeWeavers is a perfect example and I think there are many big companies that are starting to figure this out (i.e. how to work with the GPL).

Get ready folks. The Man is coming. :)

tims