Songbird is probably one of the best open source software and cross platform media players available. Calling it the iTunes for Ubuntu, would probably be the simplest answer to describe its importance. But, the disheartening announcement came from Songbird’s staff that, they are giving a halt to their support for Linux.
Developers will continue to support Windows and Mac versions of Songbird. While, the Songbird engineers who develop on the Linux platform will maintain a version of the software for use, those builds will not be tested and may not pick up new features developed by Songbird’s team. The developers of Songbird are expected to roll out the next version of player, NOFX,at the end of the month, adding a host of features ranging from video support – import, library management and full screen playback. Work is under progress to provide full compatibility with Windows 7 and support for new handsets.
The statement on their blog read:
After careful consideration, we’ve come to the painful conclusion that we should discontinue support for the Linux version of Songbird. Some of you may wonder how a company with deep roots in Open Source could drop Linux and we want you to know it isn’t without heartache. We have a small engineering team here at Songbird, and, more than ever, must stay very focused on a narrow set of priorities. Trying to deliver a raft of new features around all media types, and across a growing list of devices, we had to make some tough choices.
It is worth mentioning here that Songbird was supporting Linux for nearly 4 years now. But, instead of making it better, with continuous support, Songbird considered it better to move against the flow! It was facing tough competition from Amarok, Banshee and Rhythmbox, and this may be a part of the reason for their decision.
Life on mac is even tougher, since iTunes is the default music player available over there and below this, there are hundreds of music players that have already established themselves well, after iTunes. What are your thoughts about the decision?
Link – Songbird Blog
Article by Sahil Malhan
Sahil Malhan is a part-time blogger with really strong passion for his work. He considers Blogging as the best source of self education. Follow him on twitter @sahilmalhan. Subscribe to feed via RSS Follow us on twitter @techtickle
Sahil has written 303 articles for us at TechTickle.