Canonical plans Ubuntu slates

Posted on 14 Jun 2010 at 15:42

Canonical - creator of the popular Ubuntu Linux operating system - is looking to get itself a slice of the burgeoning slate market, according to one of its senior executives.

In comments made to Network World, vice president of OEM services Chris Kenyon stated that a customised version of the Ubuntu operating system would be making an appearance on slate and tablet-style devices some time early next year.

Following on from the company's work on a netbook-oriented operating system, known as the Ubuntu Netbook Remix, the as-yet un-named slate operating system would likely be based around the next generation release of Ubuntu - 10.10, or 'Maverick Meerkat' - and include full support for multi-touch displays and a customised user interface designed specifically to cater to the needs of a tablet-style device.

Although no manufacturers have yet announced that they are planning a device, Kenyon's comments suggest that Canonical has agreements - at least in principle - with companies to bring Ubuntu-based slates to market by the start of 2011. It's a move which will bring it into competition with other Linux-based platforms including Intel and Nokia's Meego and Google's Android OS, along with Apple's IOS-based iPad.

Whether Ubuntu-based slates could offer stiff competition for Apple's popular iPad - which is likely to be firmly entrenched in the market by the time Ubuntu's offering makes it to shop shelves - remains to be seen.

Author: Gareth Halfacree

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