A Toast to Creativity

In adapting to the needs of the community it serves, the Freedom Toaster project now aims to deliver even more open creative content including music, literature and Linux and open source documentation.

The Freedom Toaster project is known for providing a powerful tool for the deployment of open source software, operating systems and content to regions with limited Internet connectivity. In fulfilling this role, a need has been expressed for the Toasters to include more creative content to supplement the Gutenberg project’s electronic books that are currently available from your local Toaster.

“We’ve recognised the potential of the Toaster to fulfill a role as a content outlet, while remaining the most effective way of delivering open source software and operating systems in areas with limited Internet connectivity,” explains Jason Hudson, head developer on the Freedom Toaster Project.

“In this regard, the Freedom Toaster software is being developed to include various forms of creative content,” he continues, “including more books, music, sound samples for musicians and producers, documentation, and the ability for music samples and other content to be uploaded to the Toaster and be shared with other users.”

“This enables a new level of collaboration for music producers and DJs,” enthuses Hudson. “And it’s only a matter of time before we see other forms of creative collaboration taking place, using the Toaster as a platform.”

The open source and Creative Commons approach to licensing content makes this all possible. “Proprietary music and creative content would never allow for this form of collaboration,” says Hudson. “But with Creative Commons licenses and the general open source approach intrinsic to the Freedom Toaster project, these barriers are overcome and truly free creative collaboration becomes possible.”

The challenges facing artists in rural areas and regions with limited connectivity are also overcome. “Music production, for one, can be very expensive,” insists Hudson. “The software required costs thousands of Rands and music samples are also expensive, making it difficult for musicians to express themselves. With the Freedom Toaster, artists will now be able to obtain the tools and other materials needed for their work, irregardless of their Internet connectivity and for free.”