This question is aimed at people like Pudge, Ken Williams, David Wheeler, and others who write and distribute open source software. If you consume, but do not produce, open source software, this message is not for you.
I'm working with Apple to try and get cheaper access to the seed releases of new version of Mac OS (e.g., Panther). It's in Apple's interest to have open source software ready to work with the new version of their operating system, rather than all the messages about the new release being "XYZ is broken!" Right now you have to pay $500 to get an ADC membership. I flat-out told them that this was a ridiculous charge for people who are generally not being paid to develop the software. I have an offer from them now for $99 (same as the academic price) "early bird" access to Panther. This would buy you both pre-releases *and* the final version. I think Jaguar retailed for $125, so you'd be paying less and getting early access. Speaking honestly as open source developers, would you take them up on this offer? I know that I still think $99 is a lot of money to pay for something that I'd get for free if I used Linux, but (on the gripping hand) I'd want to upgrade eventually and this way I'd get it early and be able to ensure that my software didn't suck on the new release. Thanks, Nat (I'm leaving aside for now the question of who would qualify for the discount--before I get into that with them, I want to make sure that the price is right. No point arguing about who is given the chance if nobody will pay the asked price)
