Quote:
Originally Posted by Anthem
I believe this is correct. ChromeOS, while a bit painful at first, has grown into a fun-to-use basic operating system that can fulfill the primary needs of vast hordes of computer users who currently use operating systems like Windows (and even Mac OS X). All the while it is generally safer, easier to use, simpler to fix, cost-effective to replace, and continually improving (at an impressive rate).
I've moved many of my relatives over to ChromeOS and tablets for many of their main computing needs. I get less calls for support than any time in the last 10 years or so. So, anecdotally positive.
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I haven't used ChromeOS at all - but it seems like something that would be a good "default" to be installed on new hardware - something that makes it useful out of the box, and possibly all that some users might need, while not forcing people to pay for a license for something like Windows unless that is actually what they choose to install on their computer.
I have no clue what the Microsoft tax actually amounts to per computer purchase, but it is, of course, absurd. Nearly every Linux user is a constant repeat customer for Microsoft, even if they never use the product they are paying for. Personally, I switched to Linux (Slackware downloaded as floppy disk images from a local BBS) in 1995 having seen and heard a bit about the upcoming Windows 95 by then which I really didn't like one bit and had no desire to use. I haven't used Windows since version 3.11 but have no doubt racked up quite a lifetime total in Microsoft purchases.
ChromeOS or something similar would be perfect to ship on new hardware.
I'm sure that like me, most Linux users would still do a fresh install of their favorite distro on a newly purchased machine, even if that machine came from the factory with Linux installed and configured according to whatever defaults the manufacturer chose, so I actually wouldn't recommend Linux as a "space-filler" OS since it isn't likely to be a good fit for those not capable of installing it themselves, or needed by those who can.
ChromeOS on the other hand, might be perfect. It is simple and likely to be the most appropriate choice for people not capable of installing another OS. Those who need more capability can go ahead and install Linux, or buy and install Windows. Really that would seem pretty ideal for all users.