A roadmap for next-generation mobo firmware @ TR

Here is an interesting look at UEFI replacements for the classic BIOS structure found on most modern motherboards.  I like how the author talks about the current Asus UEFI bios layout and claims there is room for improvement.  Of course there is room to improve, that is the nature of these things and since UEFI is more like an actual GUI program that opens up a variety of possibilities.

The BIOS was never that exciting, but its EFI replacement has the potential to make motherboards much sexier than they've ever been before.  We have some rather specific thoughts on what should be incorporated into new firmware, and we're curious to hear what you think, too.

The truth of the matter is (and is something we purposefully didn't address in our reviews) is that UEFI is too new.  I will gladly admit that Asus has the best implementation out of any we have used but when you remove the fancy graphics what you are left with is the standard American Megatrends layout, no changes just out of the box features and layout.  Heck even the menu is the same.  Yes they added some innovation like being able to take screenshots and the EZ layout screen but that only proves they spent more time on making things right.

What I would like to see is some company really pushing the boundaries, break the mold, include some new stuff, change the format, make things point and click or direct entry, don't just wrap pretty pictures around menu selections and call it good, that is what architects do when they attempt to hide bad design it didn't work for them so why would it work for this.

Maybe X79 will bring improvement or maybe it will be the same old stuff with a different color.  So far the rumors claim ALL X79 motherboards will come with UEFI interfaces.  The question will be, does the company draw from what they think people will find comfortable or will they push the boundaries and actually design something good?? 

Time will tell.

This is a good read, be sure to check it out.

Related Web URL: http://techreport.com/discussions.x/21815