From: Adam.Frix@p18.f20.n226.z1.FIDONET.ORG (Adam Frix)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.system
Subject: Re: 7.1 not free?
Date: Mon, 28 Sep 92 14:36:16 EST
Organization: FidoNet node 1:226/20.18 - cmhGate UF Gateway, Columbus OH

Rick Pavek writes:

RP> I don't see where we really have cause to complain... we've 
RP> gotten it free for all these years while PC users have had 
RP> the privaledge of purchasing PC/DOS, MS/DOS (both in various 
RP> versions), CPM, Windows and OS2 for their machines... and 
RP> Microsoft has gotten quite healthy on such sales... 
RP> It's not like Apple can give it all away for free... if it 
RP> weren't for the hardware they make they'd have been charging 
RP> for it all along. 
RP> I wouldn't want to pay for it either. If they do it, that's 
RP> their choice. It's not like you're going to scrap your Mac 
RP> and go out and buy a PC if they do start charging for it... 

MY OPINION:

the core OS should be free, so that developers aren't put into the same
situation as DOS/Windoze developers--which software with which capabilities
does the user have?  This problem will still exist to some extent even if core
System software is given away, but if the sole source for the OS is buying it
off the shelf, the problem will only be exacerbated.  Plus, developers may
lose interest in developing software that takes advantage of new System
software features if it's not taken for granted that a large number of users
will go to the new System version.

In core OS, I include printing architecture.  I do not include things like
QuickTime, PC Exchange, etc.  Let the user extend his own system according to
the $$$ in his own pocket.  But there should be some complete and advanced
core operating system that developers can count on user having, to a great
extent.  (I realize that extending the system creates simila--but fewer-
hassles for developers about "what does the user have?"  I'm only referring to
core technologies like aliases, drag-n-drop, stationery, QuickDraw GX, new
printing architecture, etc.--which I believe would eliminate most of the
hassles.)

I'm still at System 6.  I have Sys7, but don't use it.  I consider that my own
business, and if I see a nifty kean-o program that requires Sys7, I consider
it my own problem that I can't use that program.  If I see enough nifty kean-o
programs that require Sys7, I'm likely to move up to it--if it's readily
available.

On the other hand, if I have to shell out $20 to $99 every 6 months to a year
just to keep up with OS developments, I'm not likely to bother.  And
developers will know this, and will keep their features more general and less
OS specific, and the downward cycle begins.  And we end up like DOS users-
with software written only for the lowest common denominator that makes the
developer money.

Yuck.

Somewhere, there's a compromise.  And I think using extensions is the key. 
Let Apple give away the core OS, and sell the nifty extensions piecemeal.

--Adam--

ps  And I just had a thought:  in QuarkXPress, option-About.. brings up an
information box describing the computer's configuration, version of XPress,
and so on.  Undoubtedly a useful tool for tech support for Quark users.  Apple
might consider incorporating this idea into About This Macintosh....  Somehow
give the user access to a more informational screen concering how his system
is extended--maybe a button in the About box called Details....  Undoubtedly
this would help Apple's new product support venture with their Performas.  I'm
sure the techs would appreciate being able to find out just what extensions
are loaded.
 
--  
Adam Frix via cmhGate - Net 226 fido<=>uucp gateway Col, OH
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