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July 24, 2008

rivals

Linux should be more like the Mac

Posted Jul. 24, ’08, 5:39 AM PT by Derik DeLong
Category | Apple » Rivals

Mark Shuttleworth At the O’Reilly Open Source Convention, Ubuntu Linux chief architect Mark Shuttleworth made a call for Linux to go “beyond the Mac” when it comes to software experience.

While not specific, he notes that the open source operating system should be at least as “crisp and clean” as Mac OS X while still offering the community benefits that come with fully opened code.

It’s encouraging for a key Linux figure to recognize this. In fact, I would argue that it’s the reason that Ubuntu is so overwhelmingly popular amongst non-expert Linux users. It’s easy, at least more so than other variations.

I want the Mac to succeed, but I’ve always had a soft spot in my heart for Linux because of its ambitious goals. I’ve always felt that there hasn’t been enough focus on establishing a singular experience. Linux and its applications seem to suffer from interface by committee, with multiple, non-complementary ideas being forced into a single entity.

There’s no reason that Linux can’t be known for ease of use rivaling the Mac. I just hope for their users’ sakes that someone listens to Shuttleworth.


3 Comments

CVBrue said:

Perhaps the Linux community should, if they don't already, have annual awards for good design, like the Mac community does.

There is no doubt in my mind that annual awards for good design set a level of expectation for software designers, builders, and users that results in better software.

July 24, 2008 6:29 AM
RalphM Author Profile Page said:

Linux has done a good job of creating free software. But the open source model doesn't lend itself to focused direction. Apple has focused direction in the form of Steve Jobs. It became unfocused during his absence but clarified with his return. The man demands focus and literally destroys anything that veers from it. Good or bad, this is something the Linux world can never have because it is anathema to them. You can't close an open system.

July 24, 2008 8:29 AM
Greg said:

The problem with Linux is there are 50,000 variants and each one claims to be THE Linux. There are too many chiefs in the Linux world and not nearly enough Native Americans.

July 24, 2008 9:11 AM

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