In a remarkable convergence of technological titans, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Linux creator Linus Torvalds recently met for the first time at a private dinner hosted by Microsoft Azure CTO Mark Russinovich. This gathering also included David Cutler, a key figure in the development of Windows NT. Russinovich shared a photo of the event on LinkedIn, noting, "Linus had never met Bill, and Dave had never met Linus. No major kernel decisions were made, but maybe next dinner
." (tomshardware.com)This meeting is emblematic of the evolving relationship between Microsoft and the open-source community. Historically, Microsoft and Linux have been viewed as adversaries, with Microsoft once considering Linux a significant threat to its Windows operating system. In a 2001 internal memo, Bill Gates identified Linux and the open-source movement as potent competitors, emphasizing the need for Microsoft to adapt. (techrights.org)
Over the years, Microsoft's stance has shifted notably. Under CEO Satya Nadella, the company has embraced open-source technologies, contributing to the Linux kernel and acquiring GitHub, a leading platform for open-source collaboration. This transformation reflects a broader industry trend towards collaboration and interoperability. (linuxpunx.com.au)
The dinner also highlights the personal dynamics between Gates and Torvalds. Despite their contrasting philosophies—Gates championing proprietary software and Torvalds advocating for open-source—both have significantly influenced the computing landscape. Their meeting suggests a mutual recognition of each other's contributions and the potential for future collaboration.
In conclusion, the gathering of Gates, Torvalds, Cutler, and Russinovich signifies a milestone in the tech industry, illustrating how former rivals can find common ground in an era that values openness and shared innovation.
Source: Moneycontrol https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/bill-gates-meets-linus-torvalds-the-man-who-created-microsoft-windows-biggest-rival-and-kept-it-free-article-13164513.html
