http://tech.slashdot.org/story/09/07...usivity-Debate

Not sure how much this will affect NIT users, but I figure it will have enough of an effect that I thought it wise to post this.

that's very generous, from the company that has done so much to prevent free or low cost wifi access in new york city.

I love the line "Exclusivity arrangements promote competition and innovation in device development and design" (emphasis mine)

yeah right

Design maybe, as there have been some on engadget that i have cursed the exclusivity on, but development?

Just like AT&T's exclusivity in telephones, telephone networks and long distance helped to promote competition and innovation until that darned telecommunications break-up in the 70's.

Yeah, non-exclusivity creates competition between companies that actually helps promote innovation. The only thing that exclusivity promotes is huge, fat paychecks for the fat cats at the top of the pecking order. Nothing else. The customers at the bottom get screwed nine ways to Sunday.