I am attending here in L.A. and wow, it seems empty. I have been
discussing this with several of the exhibitors. The isles are not nearly
as packed as in the last few Siggraphs. There are some large empty spaces
on the exhibit floor where companies pulled out.
Several high profile companies have combined their exhibits with other
companies and have fewer staffers on hand. Of course there are still big
exhibits like the dualing SGI and SUN territories at the main entrance.
I noticed the word linux here and there on displays, but haven't had a
chance to investigate more fully. I did speak to the CEO of 3d scanner
company who was very unhappy making the shift from Irix to NT. He told me
that Linux has become very attractive and he expects that they will make
the leap of faith soon. I guess thats the way it goes.
With all the press in recent months concernig Hollywoods shift to Linux,
it will be interesting to investigate further.
jeff knowtlon
