Present day
Over time Linux, which is largely an open source code system, has been adapted and refined by computer enthusiasts all over the world. It has
developed into a huge number of variants because so many talented IT experts have had direct access to the basic code, whereas the codebases for Windows
and Apple are closely guarded commercial secrets. The result is that development of Linux based ingenuity has surged ahead of the commercial
interests that had tried to suppress it.
The future
In an effort to boost already astronomical profts both Microsoft and Apple are turning to new ways of making money from customers by leveraging
their market dominance. They see the gathering of personal information which can be sold on, or used to target advertising, as the future of
increased profitabilty. When you buy a PC with Windows or Apple software you are not buying a product.
You become their product.
