Linux turns 33, and the hosts reflect on its monumental influence on tech history. Mozilla faces financial challenges, heavily reliant on Google funding, while Firefox battles with new updates. Microsoft’s patches disrupt dual-boot systems, creating chaos for users. A showdown in corporate politics emerges between Google and Canonical over software packaging. Amid critiques of Apple’s policies, the episode celebrates the launch of the Raspberry Pi Pico 2, teasing exciting possibilities for future projects in the ecosystem.
Linux's 33-year journey underscores its pivotal role in shaping the tech landscape and fostering innovation in Unix-like environments.
Mozilla's revenue vulnerabilities from the Google antitrust ruling may propel it to seek innovative strategies and alternative funding sources for Firefox.
Deep dives
The Significance of Linux's 33rd Anniversary
The recent anniversary of Linux highlights its profound impact on the tech industry over the past 33 years. The discussion reflects on how Linux emerged as a viable alternative to existing systems like Minix and BSD, allowing users to explore Unix-like environments freely. This creation paved the way for major internet companies, emphasizing that without Linux, the landscape of the internet could have been vastly different. The speakers ponder whether such an innovation was inevitable or if it was a unique circumstance that allowed Linux to flourish at the right time.
Mozilla's Revenue Challenges and Future Prospects
Mozilla is currently facing a significant revenue challenge due to a recent antitrust decision against Google, which limits how much Google can pay companies to be their default search engine. This may lead to a crucial financial hit for Mozilla, potentially affecting Firefox's development and sustainability. However, some argue that this could be an opportunity for Mozilla to reevaluate its business model and operational efficiency, possibly fostering innovation. Suggestions include exploring alternative revenue sources and focusing on maintaining a strong, privacy-oriented browser while cutting unnecessary expenditures.
The Dual Boot Dilemma with Secure Boot Issues
Recent updates from Microsoft have disrupted the secure boot functionality for dual boot systems, causing significant frustration among Linux users. The fix involves turning off secure boot temporarily for system updates, which highlights the dependency of Linux on Microsoft's ecosystem. Discussions around secure boot point out its complexity and the need for motherboard manufacturers to adapt to better integrate with Linux systems. The sentiment suggests that the situation exemplifies broader issues in user autonomy when it comes to operating systems reliant on proprietary software.
Linux is 33 years old and we wonder what would have happened without it, Mozilla might be about to lose the sweet Google cash, Microsoft breaks dual boot, Google quietly drops support for Chrome on old Ubuntu, the Apple tax hits Patreon, and an exciting new Raspberry Pi.
This episode is sponsored by Entroware. They are a UK-based company who sells computers with Ubuntu and Ubuntu MATE preinstalled. They have configurable laptops, desktops and servers to suit a wide range of Linux users. Check them out and don’t forget to mention us at checkout if you buy one of their great machines.