Is IBM’s OS/2 and REXX Still Around?

Yes, they are! Despite their absence in the mainstream market, both OS/2 and REXX have found their continuance in niche settings. This article explores the current status of these two historical IBM products, their development and usage, and the reasons for their continued existence.

Introduction

The question of whether IBM’s OS/2 and REXX are still around is often met with a mix of nostalgia and curiosity. About a couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to attend the IBM booth at CeBIT, the largest IT fair in Europe. An elderly gentleman approached me, inquiring about the location of OS/2 since he couldn't find it in the hall. It saddens me to inform such an enthusiast that his beloved operating system is no longer supported or developed by IBM. It’s a reality that many other discontinued operating systems, such as Windows 95, also face. In this piece, we delve into the specifics of OS/2 and REXX, exploring their current status, usage, and the reasons behind their survival in some niche environments.

OS/2: A Historical Perspective

OS/2, originally known as “the operating system of the future,” was a joint effort by IBM and Microsoft in the 90s. It held significant promise for the computing world, aiming to bridge the gap between DOS and Windows. Despite its initial hype and numerous features (such as multitasking, device driver support, and an advanced file system), OS/2 eventually faded into history due to market competition and strategic missteps from both companies.

In 2005, IBM officially discontinued OS/2, although some individuals and companies continue to use the operating system in niche applications. One such example is the University of Gottingen in Germany, which hosts a museum dedicated to OS/2, showcasing its historical significance and continued use in research and educational settings. Another instance is the continued use of OS/2 in terminals and legacy systems within financial institutions, where the stability and security of the system are critical.

REXX: An Ancient but Enduring Language

REXX, a programming language known for its simplicity and ease of use, was another creation of IBM. REXX originated in the 1980s and was designed to be a scripting language, making it accessible to both novice and experienced programmers. Despite Microsoft’s popular scripting language, PowerShell, emerging with Windows, REXX has not only survived but thrived in certain specialized environments, particularly within IBM’s mainframe world.

REXX still has a strong presence on IBM’s z/OS, which is the operating system for IBM’s mainframe computers. Many businesses with legacy applications on z/OS continue to utilize REXX scripts for system management and automation tasks. The language is valued for its simplicity and the ability to perform complex tasks without the need for other programming languages.

Conclusion

While OS/2 and REXX are no longer widespread in the mainstream consumer market, they retain a strong presence in niche applications and industries. These systems continue to be valued for their stability, security, and ability to operate effectively in legacy environments. Whether in a museum or a cutting-edge mainframe system, the legacy of these IBM creations is not only important but also enduring.

FAQs

Q: Why did OS/2 fade into history?
OS/2's decline can be attributed to a combination of market competition, strategic missteps by IBM and Microsoft, and the emergence of Windows, which exploited the political and technical failures of OS/2.

Q: Can I still get support for OS/2?
While IBM officially discontinued OS/2 in 2005, unofficial support and community efforts have continued to provide assistance to users and organizations that still rely on the system.

Q: How is REXX used today?
REXX is widely used in mainframe environments, particularly on IBM's z/OS. It is favored for its simplicity and its role in managing and automating complex systems.