If something is free, then you’re either the product, or the beta tester. But since paid software is getting worse and worse, being the beta tester is a good alternative.
In the case of Linux, especially the ones without a business built around them (e.g. Debian), they’re more like mutual aid. They’re not looking to sell it or exfiltrate your data in the future, after the “beta.”
If something is free, then you’re either the product, or the beta tester. But since paid software is getting worse and worse, being the beta tester is a good alternative.
And somehow in Windows they managed to make people pay for it and be the product.
All while technically selling alpha versions…
In the case of Linux, especially the ones without a business built around them (e.g. Debian), they’re more like mutual aid. They’re not looking to sell it or exfiltrate your data in the future, after the “beta.”
Microsoft has historically shipped Alpha versions, followed by Betas, in paid software.