[gutsy]

The average non-power user isn't going to want to learn how to use Linux, they're comfortable with Windows so they'll stick with Windows. I predict that they'll make two very distinct version of Windows next time, one for tablets like Windows 8 and one a lot more like Windows 7 for the desktops.

[rbanffy]

The non-power user will use whatever comes with the computer, as long as it can access Facebook.

[gutsy]

But if it's too different and hard to figure it, they'll deem it as crap and that it doesn't work. That's the biggest reason why MS was so afraid to let XP die.

[astrodust]

OS X is BSD based and you don't need to be a power user to learn how to use it. I'm not sure what your argument is here. With the right UX and application suite, Linux is for all intents and purposes just as functional as Windows is.

[gutsy]

A mac is very expensive, that rules that out.

I know Linux is just as functional as Windows is. Most people on this site know that, but we aren't the ones buying most PCs. Imagine your mom, dad, brother or sister who don't use computers like crazy trying to learn how to use Linux. If it's too different, "it doesn't work at all." Too many people are afraid to learn new things, which is sad.

[astrodust]

I don't know about "very expensive" unless you're in the market for a bargain bin computer. A Mac Mini costs $599, an feature equivalent Dell is maybe $399 to $499, so there is a price premium but it's not outrageous. Plus, you do get significantly better support from the retailer, cheaper upgrade options on the operating system, and a lot of bundled apps that, for some people, are more than worth the extra dollars.

It's not that people are not afraid to learn new things, they just have priorities, and often "learn a new OS" is not on their list.

Remember, Linux has succeeded on Android, so don't think it's impossible for people to use it.