It’s this year’s third mobile Linux announcement, but it could be the most significant. A new version of Ubuntu Linux is to be developed for mobile phones and other portable devices. Known as the ‘Ubuntu Mobile and Embedded’ project, the distribution will be first released in October 2007. According to Ubuntu:
…It is clear that new types of device – small, handheld, graphical tablets which are Internet-enabled are going to change the way we communicate and collaborate. These devices place new demands on open source software and require innovative graphical interfaces, improved power management and better responsiveness.
The Ubuntu announcement follows news from Access and Palm that both are currently developing new, Linux-based mobile operating systems. These join the mobile open-source market already being supported by large firms like Nokia. Interestingly, it also follows hot on the heels of news about Dell releasing Ubuntu-powered desktop PCs and the availability of a distribution designed for installation on the Sony PlayStation 3. Despite the ongoing dominance of closed-source, Windows operating systems, fans of free software have lots to be happy about…. and even more to look forward to!
