Canonical rejiggers Ubuntu for laptots

Netbook Remix on the way to OEMs

By Austin Modine • Get more from this author

Posted in Operating Systems, 4th June 2008 22:26 GMT

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Canonical, the corporate sugar-daddy of Ubuntu, is unveiling a new version of the operating system designed specifically for the now en vogue market of ultra low-cost laptops.

Although Ubuntu Netbook Remix isn't yet widely available to system builders, Canonical is showing a demonstration of the trimmed-down OS at the Computex expo in Taipei.

Netbook Remix is based on the standard Ubuntu Desktop edition with ~~netbook~~ laptot accommodations in mind for internet browser-centered usage, smaller screens and power conservation. Among the changes is a launcher that provides access to the internet more quickly and provides a speedier avenue to a small selection of applications.

A good walk through of the user interface is provided by the folks at Ars Technica.

Canonical said its been working closely with Intel through its Moblin initiative to optimize Ubuntu Netbook Remix for the Atom processor.

"Our goal is to deliver a superb user experience while making it simple and cost-effective for device manufacturers to be able to bring their devices to the consumer market place," stated Ubuntu founder Mark Shuttleworth.

Canonical expects to have the OS installed in consumer devices later in 2008. Right now it's busy working with OEMs and ISVs to make sure popular desktop applications are certified to run on the edition. ®