ATI's increasing interest in Linux

ATI has announced that the version 8.49.7 of its Linux driver, which is now available and compatible with Radeons. It enables FireGL to benefit from up to roughly 33% higher performances in OpenGL. Of course, these aren’t figures from an independent source but it does confirm AMD’s graphic division’s interest in this OS which it ignored for some time.

Recently, developers were able to offer a rather complete open source driver for the R500 (Radeon X1000) as for several months now the firm has published quite precise documentation, including the 3D component for its former GPUs. However, everything isn’t that optimistic and Nvidia’s Linux drivers have had a rather well deserved solid reputation for a long time although this comes when the company does not want to make any concessions to developers of open source drivers. Therefore, AMD seems to more than ever be keeping a watchful eye in this area.