Canonical, the company that supports open-source PC operating system Ubuntu, has announced a mobile version of the Ubuntu platform.
The new interface will be available to network operators, manufacturers and chip makers. It’s aimed at high-end ‘superphones’ and at entry-level smartphones, with features that include gesture controls from all four edges of the screen. In addition, a ‘PC experience’ is promised when high-spec Ubuntu smartphones are docked with a monitor, keyboard and mouse.
Jane Silber, CEO of Canonical, said “We expect Ubuntu to be popular in the enterprise market, enabling customers to provision a single secure device for all PC, thin client and phone functions. Ubuntu is already the most widely used Linux enterprise desktop, with customers in a wide range of sectors focused on security, cost and manageability. We also see an opportunity in basic smartphones that are used for the phone, SMS, web and email, where Ubuntu outperforms thanks to its native core apps and stylish presentation.”
Over 20 million desktop computers currently run the Ubuntu OS.