And all of this is usable from the bootable CD/DVD! You just download the FREE ISO, burn it, reboot, and your PC is now running a modern AmigaOS written from scratch for x86 architecture.
Except when it doesn't work. Which in my case is every time. I just tried it out last night.
Never mind. My machine doesn't seem to like Linux distros either, although I would have thought I have fairly standard hardware.
IF the new Commodore USA takes off, AND they are able to negotiate AROS OEM licensing, that would aid the AROS community immensely, with licensing income, increased exposure, as well as raise AROS's profile along-side a well known brand. Unfortunately it would seem that the AROS community is not prepared for OEM licensing as such, so hopefully this can get some focus.
With OEM hardware support for a stable hardware base, AROS could really shine. Add OEM licensing for classic Amiga ROMS via Amiga Forever licensing and you can run all classic Amiga software out of the box. Such a commercial distro for Commodore computers would be called "Commodore AROS". It wouldn't in any way disturb the existing AROS ecosystem, would add to the userbase, and a successful commercial entity would probably be able to contribute to bounties for functionality to aid the whole userbase regardless of what computer they are using.
It's not the Commodore of old of course, it can never be, but at least if they pay homage to the software legacy, it can't be a bad thing. Aside from the flagship model which is the Commodore Phoenix, Commodore will release a range of small all-in-one keyboard computers (Amigo), netbooks and tablets, that would be greatly aided by an efficient operating system like AROS. I have it on good authority that the amount of pre-orders for the Phoenix alone already dwarfs the existing AROS user base. The idea for an OEM Commodore specific distro has already been floated, and there will soon be a concerted effort to get the OEM licensing and hardware support happening. All parties with a stake or interest can expect to hear from me soon. Commodore USA is now serious about AROS and determined to make it happen real soon.
Disclaimer: I am Commodore's technical adviser. My opinion is purely my own.
