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Linux for iPod Matures
elinenbe writes "The Linux on iPod Project has just crossed a milestone. Currently their firmware works on all ipod models other then the new mini. Sound plays and for many people it has more features then the original iPod firmware!"
Don't get me wrong, I love Linux (I manage an 80-node Linux Beowulf cluster at work) for the things that it's good it. But why would you take a working iPod and install Linux on it? It's not as if you get a discount on your iPod for running Linux. And it's not as if the Linux community has produced a wealth of iPod "killer apps." Straight out of the box, the iPod does what it's supposed to do. And until Linux has native support for some of the consumer technologies that make the iPod so cool (i.e., DirectX) what is the point of installing Linux on it? I realize that there's a certain "cool factor" involved with being able to run Linux on (insert consumer electronics device here), but at what point does one cross the line from usability over to zealotry? The fact that I can run Linux on my toaster isn't going to help me make bagels in the morning.
Even though many of you ask, "Why??" the news of a new OS for the iPod does present some interesting possibilities. iPods could be used as webservers (a webserver in the palm of your hand) or fileservers. Now that would be cool.
"I know kung-fu" -Neo, The Matrix
Linux on an Ipod is basically pointless. Especially on this very device, which is what hip people buy in the first place (don't get me wrong, I have one). That doesn't mean people can't tweak with it, but it's not that useful, since the geek population using iPods is outnumbered by the common consumers.
On the other hand, what about making a file browser that allow you to go through the files you stored on your pod ? I usually store isos, books, games, and the like on my 30Gb, and I really would like to be able to rename, delete, transfer to my comp directly from the iPod...
Of course, I could move my ass, but I'm not a techie. My 2 cents.
Regards,
jdif
Let's overcome our weakness.
I thought the iPod didn't have to horsepower to decode vorbis. IIRC most mp3 players have an actual hardware chip that decodes the files, and i also remember a story on here a few months back about the first ogg vorbis decoder chip. Coming soon to cereal boxes near you...
"Sic Semper Tyrannosaurus Rex."
Seriously, with all of the real projects that need coders, this falls way off the map into the "There be Dragons" category.
You're right. Coders have an obligation to provide their skills free of charge to a project that "needs" it, rather than one they enjoy working on...
You left out the biggest one of all.
Harley Davidson.
The CEO of harley davidson once said "we are not a motorcycle company, we are a fashion company". People don't buy harleys because they want a good bike they get one because they think it makes them cool and rebellious. This despite the fact 99% of harley owners are doctors, lawyers, assorted actors and politicians. What the heck put on a harley shirt, harley leathers, harley helmet, get on your harley and go to sturgis and hang out with all the other people wearing the exact same clothing and riding the same bikes to prove you are different and cool.
evil is as evil does