Slashdot Mirror
FirefoxOS-Based Matchstick Project Ends; All Money To Be Refunded
Kohenkatz writes: Matchstick, a project built on FirefoxOS that aimed to compete with Google's Chromecast, which was initially funded on Kickstarter, is shutting down and will be refunding all pledges. In a post to Kickstarter backers today, they announced that this decision was due to the difficulty of implementing the DRM components that are necessary for access to a lot of paid content. Rather than drag out the project on an unknown schedule, they have decided to end the project.
FirefoxOS is an extremely important project, right up there with the browser at the time it was conceived.
As for the OS itself, years ago, there really wasn't much to say. It's improved dramatically since those early releases on low-end hardware. Check out some of the 2.5 demos. It's really something. What will really amaze you, of course, are the customization features you'll likely never find on other platforms.
As this is about the Matchstick, and you seem to like scathing reviews, take a look at this FXOS vs Android head-to-head in the smart TV arena. Needless to say, I was looking forward to the Matchstick.
When we look at the big picture, it is not positive at all!
I know. Google's spyware, Apples walled garden, it's a nightmare! That's why FXOS is so important. The mobile space needs an open platform and, most importantly, an open app package standard that anyone can implement. Users benefit by being able to keep their apps even when switching platforms and new platforms benefit from a wealth of apps ready to go from day one.
When you have a really good thing, you don't "cut your losses" simply because some kickstarter project didn't want to see another delay. It's not like the backers were consulted. I'd have voted to wait an extra year, if necessary, to get my hands on the thing. After all, I funded the project to support FXOS, not because I was interested in the matchstick. I know how important it is, and what it can do for mobile.
Required reading for internet skeptics
This would be an excellent example of Mozilla not being willing to compromise their principles to satisfy the media conglomerates obsession with DRM.
I know this always come as a shock to the geek, but without access to subscription services, protected media content, HD video and theatrical quality sound, you do not have a commercially viable product.
Best Buy has the Amazon Fire Stick on sale for $25.
Actually: Not that nice at all.
The original plan was to release a Matchstick without DRM support. That version was ready to go in production and that was the version that the Kickstarter backers pledged to support.
But some months in, when the original product should already have been in production, Matchstick decided to revise their plans and to redesign the hardware to support DRM. So the backers where told that they would receive a different product then originally announced at a later date.
This was when I decided to get out and asked for my money back.
Todays announcement shows me I was right.
Matchstick should have stayed with their original plan and added DRM vor version 2.