Once Dell confirmed that it would offer the Linux operating system on select PCs in the future, Linux enthusiasts anxiously awaited the announcement of which Linux distributions would be offered. Dell today announced that it would preinstall the Ubuntu operating system on some PC and notebook models.
Canoncial, the lead sponsor behind the Ubuntu project, has started working on the operating system to ensure that it will properly work on Dell PCs and notebooks. "Dell are going to work with us to make sure Ubuntu works fully on its hardware," said Chris Keynon, director of business development for Ubuntu.
Along with appealing to popular demand, the computer company will likely save money by stripping out the cost of purchasing the operating system license from Microsoft. It appears that OS support would be provided by the open source and Linux communities, while Dell would exclusively provide hardware support.
Michael Dell previously disclosed that he has Ubuntu installed on his personal laptop.
Dell has not announced models, configurations or prices of PCs and notebooks that will feature Ubuntu. Dell also did not eliminate the possibility of other Linux distributions being installed on future product lines.
Linux fans hope that Dell embracing Linux will begin a shift in which more PC vendors will switch to open source technology.
