Maybe the Linux user base doubled last year, but the questions are how many of them are using Linux as their main desktop OS and are they able to use Linux exclusively for their daily tasks?
Me for one, i do everything on ubuntu except b3d and any game i cannot run in wine. So does my mum now, she is useless with computers and just wants stuff to just "work", the same way every time (i do any admin for her via remote X through ssh). My dad (an ex-IT proff.) who now runs a small biz is trying it out and seems impressed so far. Some of my collegues at work use it as their primary OS too. My GF also likes it better as there are no wireless dropout problems on her PC when running it.Things I can do in ubuntu just as well as i can in windows:
-Play MP3s, Games and videos (not yet missed a codec).
-3D modelling (blender, AC3D, Wings and am considering buying MAYA or XSI next time im feeling very rich)
-2D Graphics (Paintshop Pro 9* and gimp (could have photoshop* too but dont want/need it)).
-Edit Videos / digital camera pics / sound effect editing
-Use my tablet and "space mouse"
-Videophone / Chat using MSN, ICQ, Skype etc
-3G broadband (when out and about)
-Syncronise my PDA
-Email, browse web, ftp etc.
-Website design
-Office stuff
-VMware
-Programming in blitzmax/minib3d/irrlicht & learning C++
-Run a web/print/file/ssh server
-Google earth (A must have of course :)
-Other stuff (cant think right now)
(* Needs Wine for PaintShop/PhotoShop)
Things i still need windows for:
-B3d stuff, running b3d based tools and Giles
-Cams on skype (although skype are supposed to be working on this. Can use cameras in AMSN tho :)
-Odd misc nicknacks like the "IKEA home designer" (just bought a place and needed a new kitchen :)
Despite popular myths Ive, never had to compile anything except my own stuff. I and every other linux users I know are not zealots of the "Everythings gotta be free!" ideology and will buy software if its useful. Personally I have never really had any serious problems on ubuntu with "non standard" standards as it is pretty standard (except the latest releases as they tend to be a bit ''bleeding edge'').