It's more about whether the kernel retains support for 486. I wonder how many people are still using the platform actively? Or is it just hobbyists at this stage. If no-one is using it I think the kernel devs would drop support. Though perhaps Linus has a soft spot for old x86s specifically :-)
AIUI, the Linux kernel only dropped 386 because it was getting unworkable to maintain the SMP code for it. Perhaps support could be reintroduced, limited to single-core machines (no SMP support in the kernel configuration) only. Of course it would mostly be useful as a proof of concept, but the 386 is a very well-understood architecture nowadays so that would definitely have some merit.
Do you think you'd buy an e-ink device that was hackable to explore some of these use cases? I'm thinking a battery powered, WiFi/BT, minimal linux OS with good power management, powerful enough to run chromium embedded for rendering.
I can imagine a few people on here interested in such a device for calendar, home automation, surf updates, whatever. Or does it already exist?
I'd be interested if anyone can comment on commercial bulk procurement of Pis. Any idea what the volume discounts are? And also would be interesting to know what the supply has been like for the past year(s) for commercial customers.
I've heard anecdotally that most Pis sold are used in industry, so wouldn't be surprised if they're being prioritized.
Java has been available on ARM since the days of Nokia phone dominance. Not sure what you're referring to?