Topic: XP meets XO: Will Linux get an equal shot?

[sam]

Oh what a shame... stupid lack of forward planning...

http://blogs.zdnet.com/BTL/?p=8846

The One Laptop Per Child program will put XP on its XO laptop and children in the developing world will have a choice between Windows and Linux.

On the surface, a little choice isn’t going to kill anybody. In fact, choice is good. And if some poor kids can get a laptop, learn a bit and be exposed to the world I don’t care about the operating system.

But here’s what gives me pause about XP coming to the XO (statement, Techmeme): There’s no way Linux will get an equal shake on OLPC’s XO. In fact, I reckon that more XO units will ship with XP than Linux in the not too distant future. Why? Governments are making the buying decisions. Not kids.

[Rik]

Except by MS, of course.

[sam]

indeed. Very good for them. I wonder if they actually encourage piracy of these software at times.

[Rik]

If it met their long term strategic aims, I'm sure they would.

[sam]

Can XO 2 reignite OLPC?

The One Laptop Per Child program has unveiled the design for its second generation laptop, the XO2 or XOXO.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/technology/2008/05/can_xo_2_reignite_olpc.html

I have to say it does look much nicer and maybe appealing to the UK market aswell? I know I'd consider one, but then again I did with the original XO... shame you can't order them here.

Oh and more: http://www.crn.com/hardware/207801614