Going by the impressive growth that Android has registered in the short 2 years it has been around, all indications are that it is doing great and will keep doing so for a long time to come. Infact, it is only a matter of time before it becomes the #1 Mobile Platform. Even Steve Wozniak agrees.
And that is cool. Android is based on Linux. Linux is based on the GNU / Opensource License. This means, if corporations like Google, identify the opportunities behind FOSS (Free Open Source Softwares), and are willing to enhance and advance its development, then even the most proprietary of companies (like Apple) will acknowledge the challenge FOSS presents.
While this is certainly a positive news, FOSS still has a long way to go before it can become mainstream. Take a look at computer sales for the home consumer market for example. There are hardly any manufacturers who are willing to use FOSS as OEM install for their hardware. Look at proprietary companies like Microsoft and Apple on the other hand, they are easily accessible. This is a lesson for FOSS community. The Opensource ideals are good and great. But until some the critical mass of End user experience of Linux and Android reaches that of the competitors in terms of reach and polish, there are many challenges in the way for FOSS to become universally acceptable. Nevertheless, good job. Keep it up Linux and Android !!
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