AROS is a cost-free desktop operating system that can be accessed and installed on different devices. Its portability feature makes it highly sought after, as it can be modified to suit various user needs.
The AROS project has the goal of creating an OS that is as compatible with AmigaOS 3.1 as possible. Furthermore, it can be ported to different hardware architectures and processors such as x86, PowerPC, Alpha, Sparc, HPPA, and more. It can also run as a standalone version that boots directly from the hard disk, as well as an emulation that opens a window on an existing OS to develop software and run Amiga and native applications simultaneously. Lastly, it improves upon the functionality of AmigaOS.
To achieve these goals, AROS makes heavy use of the internet to allow anyone to participate in the project, no matter their technical skills. The source code is accessible 24/7, and patches can be merged in at any time. Additionally, there is a small database with open tasks to ensure that work is not duplicated.
The history of AROS dates back to 1993 when a group of Amiga fans got together to discuss how to increase the acceptance of the Amiga machine. They realized that the primary reason for lack of success was propagation, and decided to make plans to reach that goal. AOS, or AmigaOS project, was born out of that effort.
However, in the winter of 1995, Aaron Digulla grew tired of the constant arguing and posted an RFC to the AOS mailing list to find common ground. The conclusion was that almost everyone wanted to see an open OS that is compatible with AmigaOS 3.1. So, AROS was born, and the hard work began.
All in all, AROS is an excellent software that aims to improve upon AmigaOS 3.1 while keeping compatibility in mind. Its portability and accessibility make it a popular choice for users looking for a free and open-source desktop operating system.
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