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Don't know why...

Story: Linux laptop takes the strain for technophobes Total Replies: 0
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r_a_trip

Feb 22, 2010
9:05 AM EST 		...but it makes me shudder. It sounds like the VTech for adults. It may take away fear for a computing appliance, but since the Alex is obviously an oversimplification of what a computer in the wild is, what are Alex users going to learn that is useful on anything else than an Alex?

Maybe I'm not able to see the value in this, because I'm a geek. I just see a lot of drawbacks and no clear path of switching from an Alex to a full-fledged PC. A lot of regular PC stuff is hidden away like saving and some tricks are added like attach to e-mail everywhere, which will be absent from regular PC's for years to come.

An Alex user will learn how to Alex, but not how to use a computer. For the company making these things this is convenient, because it will create a userbase dependent on their machines and a steady revenue stream. It will mean an unprecedented lock in though and it's a pity to see Linux used to create it. I assume the inhouse Alex Applications are proprietary.

What is more important? People being able to use technology or having technology delivered without shackles? In this case I don't know.

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