It's understandable why they're making these cuts, but it sure ain't a good sign.
I hope it doesn't devolve into Intel becoming a less viable option for Linux. Intel wifi chipsets work great on Linux since they're well supported by Intel, but if that kind of support goes away, so does the future security in knowing Intel hardware will work well.
Today, open source drivers are written mainly for new entrants that are trying to undercut dominant players or incumbents in stable market niches that have largely ceased developing new products. If the current trends continue, it will take some time for any surviving components of Intel’s business to settle into the latter position.
It's understandable why they're making these cuts, but it sure ain't a good sign.
I hope it doesn't devolve into Intel becoming a less viable option for Linux. Intel wifi chipsets work great on Linux since they're well supported by Intel, but if that kind of support goes away, so does the future security in knowing Intel hardware will work well.
That is all but assured at this point.
Today, open source drivers are written mainly for new entrants that are trying to undercut dominant players or incumbents in stable market niches that have largely ceased developing new products. If the current trends continue, it will take some time for any surviving components of Intel’s business to settle into the latter position.