The XO laptop will soon be available for purchase in the US via OLPC’s “Give 1 Get 1″ program. The business model is interesting; essentially, the cost of ownership shall be $400 for one XO laptop. The price shall also provide funding for a second XO laptop that will be donated, on your behalf, to a qualifying child in a developing nation.
Orders shall be taken for two weeks, between the 12th-26th November, 2007, which shall guarantee delivery in time for Christmas. Though the intention is super, is it not slightly patronizing to force customers to donate to charity? Your thoughts, oh trusted readership? [OLPC News]
Brendan
September 24, 2007 at 1:18 PM
What’s the deal with the internet on these things? – who provides the connection in third world countries? and most importantly, is it compatible with the government’s NetAlert internet filter? :P
Report PermalinkAnonymous
September 24, 2007 at 8:57 PM
I don’t think it’s patronising, it’s only for a 2 week period. These laptops will get cheaper with economies of scale so the more people (particularly governments) buy the better.
Report PermalinkRaymond
September 24, 2007 at 9:41 PM
Not patronizing at all. More akin to buying a Firefox tee to support Mozilla. Buy the laptop, support the cause.
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