Final answer:
The development of open-source operating systems like Linux has significantly changed the economics of high tech by reducing the cost of operating systems and increasing competition and innovation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The development of open-source operating systems like Linux, created by Linus Torvalds, has had a significant impact on the economics of high tech. Prior to the emergence of open-source systems, proprietary operating systems dominated the market, often charging high licensing fees.
However, with the availability of free and open-source options like Linux, the cost of operating systems decreased, allowing more companies to enter the market and reducing the monopoly power of larger players. This created more competition, innovation, and affordability in the high-tech industry.