- cross-posted to:
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- cross-posted to:
- [email protected]
As Torvalds pointed out in 2019, is that while some major hardware vendors do sell Linux PCs – Dell, for example, with Ubuntu – none of them make it easy. There are also great specialist Linux PC vendors, such as System76, Germany’s TUXEDO Computers, and the UK-based Star Labs, but they tend to market to people who are already into Linux, not disgruntled Windows users. No, one big reason why Linux hasn’t taken off is that there are no major PC OEMs strongly backing it. To Torvalds, Chromebooks “are the path toward the desktop.”
I think there is a strategy in what you are pointing out.
For the general public, its not that we should advocate for the use of software, but for the use of a package of hardware+software.
People dont say they want iOS or MacOS or even Windows. They say they want an iPad, Macbook or ASUS Strix Laptop. The software is not a primary consideration for them.
The Steam Deck is the prime example. Its about making the package attractive.
If we can do things like have Bazzite make a deal with Steam for “Steam Machine” accreditation, that can be packaged and marketed to be sold by the hardware vendors. Probably starting with the gaming system integrators.
We need a similar brand and package for general purpose users, but I dont know what the set of hooks would be to make it marketable. Maybe its right to repair, maybe 10 years of software support. Maybe a 10 year warranty. Something the community still needs to figure out. Linux Mint is probably one of the most suitable for this package.