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AOL Supports Linux

Linux users can now chat with Windows users

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by Dave Murphy
ISSN 1535-3613

Dave Murphy, DGL President & ITrain founder America Online has released a beta version of its AOL Instant Messenger (IM) software for Linux.

This release gives Linux users access to AOL IM users, regardless of their operating system or platform. The bottom line: Linux users can now chat with the millions of Windows AOL IM users.

I think this is interesting, and I've got to admit, I was taken totally by surprise by AOL's announcement. I've figured AOL for a company catering to low-tech consumers. I was surprised that a Linux version of the popular AOL IM application would be released. Maybe AOL's going after the techie crowd? University students?

I'm not sure I want to read this as proof of Linux' moving to being a consumer PC operating system. There aren't enough other compelling applications (killer apps) to bring Linux into the dens and living rooms of mainstream America. Joe Average American is barely getting comfortable with Windows. I don't think he's ready to give up the small successes he's beginning to enjoy.

What I'd watch for is a line of low-cost computerized appliances running Linux. Cheap, disposable units and handheld devices that aren't beholden to Microsoft's licenses, will become all the rage later this year. Next year will be the year that Linux makes significant inroads into the PC desktop market. When Word and Excel, PowerPoint and Access are available for Linux, watch out. Maybe AOL sees this coming wave, and is getting ready for it?

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updated August 10, 2000
http://dgl.com/itinfo/2000/it000810.html

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