VIA Evaluating Its Open-Source Role

[phoronix]

Phoronix: VIA Evaluating Its Open-Source Role

Two months ago VIA Technologies had announced their intentions on joining the open-source bandwagon, but since that time we've seen little more than talk. The VIA Linux Portal was announced as a place for hosting "drivers, technical documentation, source code, and information regarding the VIA CN700, CX700/M, CN896 and the new VIA VX800 chipsets." However, this "Linux Portal" isn't anything more than a binary dungeon...

http://www.phoronix.com/vr.php?view=NjUyMg

[Svartalf]

Phoronix: VIA Evaluating Its Open-Source Role

Evaluating their role?

I'd have thought they already DID that from their announcement- but then, I half believed it to be a bluff anyhow, considering their past schizophrenic (and it STILL is...) performance in this space.

Typical, really.

[Vadi]

I think that's a bit too harsh on them.

What could've helped is a list possible solutions they can take. Anyone have any smart ideas?

[yoshi314]

What could've helped is a list possible solutions they can take. Anyone have any smart ideas?

first of all - they should ask kernel/x.org devs on what docs are most needed to help with development.

second - they should take up offer from linux driver project, to quickly get a hold of some dedicated developers.

third - they should start releasing specs in order of developer's demand, and actually talk with them.

ati has john bridgman, and alex deucher. they help a LOT right now, not only on forums, speaking with users, but also by communicating the needs of developers to the company.

via needs a few people like that, that would connect the company with the linux community. via might be a bit lost because they might not have experience with cooperating with outside developers.

[schlobinux]

I think that's a bit too harsh on them.

What could've helped is a list possible solutions they can take. Anyone have any smart ideas?

The openchrome team indeed provided them with good hints on what would help the Community at large. And anyway, they should have already guessed from Intel and AMD/ATI examples... VIA already took a step in the right direction by submitting their framebuffer code for kernel inclusion. Also Greg K-H convinced them to release some new kernel drm code. But they still have a long road to go. Without them releasing documentation and participating in the Community work, it will not move forward. This apply to the X driver, but it is also true for every other chips they manufacture (Audio, Network, Storage...)