Sony has always said the PS3 is more of a computer than a simple games machine, and that's becoming closer to the truth with the release of Yellow Dog Linux 5.0. Terra Soft Solutions is making the software available via download, and it just entered it's first stage.
Today, users can officially get the software from YDL.net. The second step will occur on December 11, when you can purchase DVDs from the Terra Soft store, which is priced at $99.99. And the last stage is set for around Christmas (Dec. 25), when downloads will finally become available via public mirrors. Once the software is launched for download on public mirrors, it will become free of charge.
In order to install Yellow Dog Linux, PS3 owners must first split the system's hard drive into two partitions so that GameOS and Linux can operate on dual partitions. You'll also need a USB keyboard and mouse to effectively run Linux, and the installation manual is now up on Terra Soft's website.
If you look at that manual, Sony issues the following statement regarding the PS3-
"It was fully intended that you, a PS3 owner, could play games, watch movies, view photos, listen to music, and run a full-featured Linux operating system that transforms your PS3 into a home computer."
The manual goes on to say that Yellow Dog Linux would allow some new uses to become available on the PS3. It says, "Everything you need to browse the web, check and compose e-mail, do your school homework or take your office work home is included."
Kids doing their homework on the PS3…? Parents would be even more confused than they already are!
