[Feedback] Open Source Media Device

[Will Robertson]

On 7/7/07, scott at scottainsliesutton.net <scott at scottainsliesutton.net> wrote:
> Scott sent a message using the contact form at
> http://amarok.kde.org/en/contact.
>
> I'd like to introduce myself; my name is Scott, I'm 20 years old and I
> currently residing in Scotland in the United Kingdom. I have been using
> Linux for 1 year and have recently begun considering creating an Open
> Source project built upon a conglomeration of other projects.
>
> I have become frustrated with the monopoly that Apple currently has within
> the portable media device market and although I own an Apple iPod myself, I
> wrote an article on my WordPress Weblog expressing the wish to be able to
> have a Firmware replacement built upon the RockBox project with additional
> features including an Online Store consisting of free music provided by
> Magnatune, Podcast and Video Podcast support provided by Democracy Player
> with the versatility and customisability of Amarok Fast Forward as well as
> many other features to create a feature-rich alternative for Apple iPod and
> CREATIVE Zen owners.
>
> Although I do not have technical skill within the field of Computer
> Programming and other such subsets, I am currently contacting each of the
> projects whose features I would like to be able to use within my project
> requesting a response as to the feasibility of my concept as from my own
> personal research I have concluded that there is currently no function or
> application available which supports such features that are available for
> portable media devices; certainly Apple's iTunes service is the only
> service which offers Music, Podcast and Video Podcast support but I would
> like for the Open Source Community to be able to create a feature-rich
> alternative if it is at all possible.
>
> Having already contacted John Buckman, owner of Magnatune, he has given
> support to my concept, and I hope that the Amarok Development Team will
> consider my proposal for a cross-application project between yourselves,
> Democracy Player, RockBox and Magnatune also; John certainly thinks that
> it's a good idea and has promised Creative Commons content if the project
> is agreed upon by all parties.
>
> I would be most appreciative of your view on this matter. My Weblog entry
> is available to view at the following URL :
> http://ainsliesuttonscott.wordpress.com/2007/07/02/an-open-source-media-device-is-it-possible/
>
> Regards
>
> Scott
> _______________________________________________
> Amarok mailing list
> Amarok at kde.org
> https://mail.kde.org/mailman/listinfo/amarok
>

You might be interested to know about the Neuros people, they have
been making some open source players (and already got a few to market
too). There is a discussion over on the Rockbox forums
(http://forums.rockbox.org/index.php?topic=11084.0) concerning a new
player they are designing - perhaps you should take a look?

Cheers, Will.