I have to agree that the source code to OS3.1 really doesn't play much
of a role in these new systems. The changes involved in rewriting the
entire "exec" and all of the libs/devices, changing APIs, adding new
driver systems, putting emulation functions in and just a general
rewrite of the whole system means changing almost everything in my
opinion. MorphOS seems to have taken a better approach regarding this
matter by building the "ABox" concept to abstract the classic OS from
interfering with the new modern kernal/OS. This means concepts like
real memory protection, virtual memory and multiple processor systems
are implemented in a clean and efficient manner as opposed to trying
to slide it into the old framework. It is easier to build upon the
classic OS and at the same time bring modern functionality into the
system.
Recreating OS3.1 or 3.9 is great but doesn't really add anything new
or open any possibilities for the platform to evolve further. This was
one of the problems with Amithlon, it's a fantastic OS3.9 Amiga system
but doesn't add any underlying layer for the future of the platform
and OS. Meaning, a lot of extra work and time would have to be spent
to bring it up to what's considered modern standards in the industry.
You and I may not care if our OS supports the so called "modern"
standards (it's great anyway, right?), but if we want the platform to
grow and attract new users it is a very important point to
consider...
