Future of Risc OS - comp.sys.acorn.apps

Message from discussion Future of Risc OS

Ray Dawson

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More options 26 Mar 2007, 11:03

Newsgroups: comp.sys.acorn.apps

From: Ray Dawson <r...@magray.freeserve.co.uk>

Date: Mon, 26 Mar 2007 11:03:43 +0100

Local: Mon 26 Mar 2007 11:03

Subject: Re: Future of Risc OS

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Jeremy Brayshaw <jer...@brayshaw.org.uk> wrote:
> >>We already have an MSN client for RISC OS - this
> >> would be the most sensible option to develop for web cam use, but
> >> that's different to VoIP!

> > Can you see it happening?

> Well, actually I can. The MSN client for RISC OS is being actively
> developed. I guess it is a case of making a webcam facility a top
> priority for them - in other words, a lot of demand from users - then
> throwing money at the problem. If RComp knew there was enough demand
> for them to make money with this upgrade, I'm sure they would do it.

Surely first you have to ensure connectivity of web cams which are
invariably USB? And, does RISC OS have the processing power to provide
video at a reasonable frame rate?

> >> As for 'cluttering the desk top with electronic gizmos', my VoIP
> >> adaptor is nobbut a large bulge in the wire - not what I would call
> >> 'clutter'!

> > It also cost you twenty quid. The Skype software is free.

> My guess is that Skype software is free now because they want to build
> a large userbase. When everyone is 'hooked' I suspect they will charge
> for using the service. As no-one else can use their protocols, they
> will have a captive market. So I would suggest using it whilst it is
> free, but be prepared to move to another system when they start
> charging! Maybe I'm wrong (I often am!). But either way, Skype will
> never be interested in writing a client for RISC OS, and no-one else
> is able to.

Skype is free when used computer to computer. Where they make their money
is their paid for telephone numbers and the ability to make paid telephone
calls to geographic telephone numbers.

I use VoIP directly via the router for most of my outgoing telephone calls
as it's much cheaper thatn BT. I also use Skype for talking to the family
abroad via video and the desk speakers and microphone. Both my wife and
myself can chat at the same time to children/grandchildren at the other
end and see them at the same time - full screen.

But not, unfortunately, on RISC OS yet.

Cheers,

Ray D

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