Is Microsoft Sabotaging OpenGL to Gain a Business Advantage?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the implications of Microsoft's approach to OpenGL and DirectX, particularly in the context of Windows Vista's requirements for OpenGL calls. Participants explore the potential business motivations behind Microsoft's actions and the impact on gaming and professional 3D applications.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that Windows Vista requires DirectX translation of OpenGL calls, resulting in a significant performance reduction of 50% when using the Aero composite engine.
  • There is a suggestion that this situation may drive users towards Linux as an alternative operating system.
  • Others express concern that high-end applications may migrate away from Windows if the performance issues persist.
  • One participant argues that Microsoft's long-standing competition with OpenGL is a key factor in the development of DirectX, which has largely dominated gaming but has not significantly impacted professional 3D applications.
  • Another viewpoint suggests that if Microsoft can compel developers to use DirectX exclusively, it would disrupt not only OpenGL but also affect Linux and Apple platforms, indicating a strategic business advantage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions, with some agreeing on the negative implications of Microsoft's strategy for OpenGL, while others speculate on the potential shift towards Linux and the broader impact on the industry. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the long-term consequences of these developments.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight performance issues and business motivations without reaching a consensus on the implications for the future of OpenGL or the gaming industry.

dduardo
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Windows Vista will require Directx translation of opengl calls in order to use the aero composite engine. The cost of the translation is a 50% performance reduction. You can still run opengl without aero enabled at full speed but you won't get the drop shadows, transparencies, and other window effects.

http://www.opengl.org/
 
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wow, hmmm maybe its time for me to install linux and just work a linux box.
 
yeah, sounds like more 'high end' stuff (or the little that is still done under win) to flow to other OSs if this joke goes through.
 
neurocomp2003 said:
wow, hmmm maybe its time for me to install linux and just work a linux box.

So you can play all the games released for linux?
 
Microsoft has been after OpenGL for years - OpenGL's pie is the reason DirectX exists in the first place. DirectX has slowly taken over gaming, but it hasn't made much of a dent into professional 3d. I'm anxious to see what this will do to the professional 3d situation.
 
If microsoft can force programmers to exclusively use Directx, then they are not only disrupting opengl, but Linux and Apple as well. They are basically killing two birds with one stone. Purely from a business standpoint this is a good strategy.
 

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