AOLS:
The following is the text of an email sent to:
majid.awad at intel.com
jketreno at linux.intel.com
in reference to Intel's support for open-source software in general.
I respect that there are differing viewpoints on this, and my intention
is not to initiate a discussion of those varying views; instead, if you
feel so inclined, please consider a similar mail to the relevant parties
at Intel to express your thoughts. Otherwise, please ignore.


Mr. Awad and Mr. Ketreno:

First, I offer my sincere thanks to Intel for their ongoing support for
965 graphics chipsets at http://intellinuxgraphics.org/ - as a Slackware
Linux user, I appreciate having an open-source option for accelerated
graphics.

However, since I am also an OpenBSD user, I must admit that I am
disappointed that Intel's overall commitment to open-source software
is rather lacking. As indicated above, releasing source code is certainly
appreciated; however, it is not enough. The community really needs
accurate, up to date documentation which would allow them to write and/or
maintain its own drivers. Another area that could use some work is the
licensing terms of the firmware images for various Intel wireless chipsets.
I can see no good reason to place any restrictions upon any vendor wishing
to distribute unmodified firmware images with their operating system. For
any operating system, being able to offer "out of the box" support for your
hardware will result in more sales of your hardware.

As it stands, I cannot in good conscience recommend Intel products to either
my acquaintances or customers due to the issues mentioned above. Should
these issues be addressed satisfactorily, I would have absolutely no qualms
about recommending purchase of Intel hardware.

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration.

--

http://rlworkman.net