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Yellow Dog Linux v5.0 for PS3 Announced
News for nerds writes "Yellow Dog Linux v5.0 is slated for release mid-November with support for the Sony PS3 first, and support for the former Apple PowerPC product line to follow. Any updates required to support the Apple PowerPC systems following the release for PS3 will be made available via a free download."
As I remember, Yellow Dog Linux was one of the better linux distros for macs back when they were still on the PowerPC platform. Now that the PowerPC platform is pretty much defunct, I can't help but think that them moving to a:
:)
- Unreleased gaming console
- which has been much-maligned for its excessively high price
- and huge production delays
- on a new processor architecture
- using a WM that's not even out of CVS
seems like biting off more than they can chew, and smacks a bit of desperation.
Don't get me wrong, I think it's possible, and once I get a PS3 (once the prices get down to sane levels) I think it'll be a neat product to play with...but I'm just glad I don't own any stock in terrasoft
<sarcasm>Yeah, it's not like the PS3 has USB ports.
Just like the PS2 didn't have USB ports.</sarcasm>
Seriously though, while anyone with a brain would use a USB mouse and keyboard, I'd love to see them make a joypad only interface just for the fun of it. I've got to say this whole thing is interesting, although it certainly doesn't make the $600 price tag any easier to swallow.
Comment forecast: Bits of genius surrounded by a sea of mediocrity.
Hmmm... MythTV front-end?
Having a widely-distributed set-top box capable of running Linux could open up all sorts of interesting projects.
Sony is pushing PS3 homebrew development big time. They are building an entire community around Linux PS3 development. This is not normal Sony behavior for sure but, its in their best interest to do so. They are HEAVY Linux in the office ($1 to Microsoft is an investment into Microsoft) and basically, it revolves around the idea that the PS3 is going to be more of a personal computer / home entertainment / gaming box. At E3, Sony exec Izumu Kawabishi said "Because we have plans for having Linux on board the PS3 we also recognise Linux programming activities and we'de like to see various individuals participate in content creation for the PS3". The advantage is that more people will understand the architecture and create cool software for it. Its going to be sweet.