Ubuntu 13.04 Review: Linux for the average Joe or Jane

jimbo45 said:

Hi there
Most stuff runs but sometimes it doesn't - and that's where Linux gets tricky - even for those with experience of it.

Don't get me wrong - I Like Linux- and use it as a server - however that doesn't stop me having reservations about it as a generic Desktop OS for the typical user to replace Windows.

Cheers
jimbo

jimbo
I do agree on the fact that Linux gets tricky, but for a normal pc user, even Windows can get tricky.

And that's even when they use it at work, and also for how many years has Windows been out, and also that Windows has been relatively consistent for that time too (looks/works similar).

ie
user: My program won't work..
me: What program was it? name?
user: I don't know... It was on my desktop.....

I don't think it is difficult for the average user.

It can be fiddly if you want to things the average wouldn't.

For the average user, browsing, emailing, shopping, twitting, fbooking, etc are very very easy.

SIW2 said:

I don't think it is difficult for the average user.

It can be fiddly if you want to things the average wouldn't.

For the average user, browsing, emailing, shopping, twitting, fbooking, etc are very very easy.

While it is arguably true, you may over estimate the average user's capabilities. Regardless how easy it may seem, the initial learning curve for Linux is still steep. Especially for the average user, who is just looking for applications and cares not about the OS.

The question isn't how easy it is then, more of a question of what would be the benefit in replacing Windows? In capable hands both systems can be relatively secure and neither of the systems are secure in the hand of average users.

The "browsing, emailing, shopping, twitting, fbooking, etc.," and then some, are already available in Windows that the average users are familiar with without the learning curve. So, what is the advantage in switching to Linux, other than being a fan of that platform?

Iforgot said:

I do agree on the fact that Linux gets tricky, but for a normal pc user, even Windows can get tricky.

That's not a good argument...

Unity pre dates 8 start screen.

They do it better as well.

There is no learning curve at all with Cinnamon interface.

Bloody obvious to my gran where everything she wants is.

Unity is more for tablets. It is not the same as windows of course- but it is unbelievably simple for the average user.

Hundreds of millions have no trouble with android tabs/phones - they will have no trouble with Unity.

There is no learning curve to speak of.

I remember reading many years ago, that the thing most 'Nix users hated, was people saying they needed to make it like Windows to attract market share. The counter-argument was of course that they didn't want it, and that it wasn't WIndows.

Seems Canonical may have forgotten that lesson?

I wouldn't say that.

Canonical have produced the Unity Interface for the average user - can be used on desktop or tablet equally easily.

It is not a copy of windows.

There will always be those who need to use complex windows programs - they will still have windows. There will always be other groups, too - pro photogs will continue to use Macs, etc.

That is not who Canonical is aiming at yet.

They are aiming at the average user.

That is the vast number who buy $200-$300 tablets or cheap laptops.

Advantages to the user are many, including

1) It is free

2) It is efficient - Ubuntu can run on an entry level smartphone.

3) It is much more secure

4) There are no secrets. You will not have info sent to brand protection agencies, cameras spying on your movie rentals, etc without any obvious way to turn it off - or without your knowledge.

5) Freedom - you are not locked in to a walled garden app store.


Advantages for oems.

1) Reduces their dependency on MS . This is massively important for oems

2) Much more efficient - flies on a decent machine - runs fine on low spec machines.

3.) Not tied to windows license restrictions, or costs