Ubuntu is probably the most popular among Linux distributions. It seams that the Linux kernal is all around us these days mostly as the core that drives modern mobile operating systems like Android. So it is no surprise that the most popular desktop distro is planning to make it's way to smartphones, tablets and even smart TVs.This announcement was made by Mark Shuttleworth, the founder of Ubuntu, who said that the company is currently focussing on the release of Ubuntu 12.04 which is due for release in April 2012. The upcoming release will be a long term support release and will focus on stability and improvements to the Unity UI. Following which they will shift their focus to mobile devices.
“This is a natural expansion of our idea as Ubuntu as Linux for human beings. As people have moved from desktop to new form factors for computing, it’s important for us to reach out to out community on these platforms. So, we’ll embrace the challenge of how to use Ubuntu on smartphones, tablets and smart-screens,” Shuttleworth said.
Ubuntu's approach to building one OS to suit all form factors is what Microsoft is currently working on with Windows 8 and it's Metro UI. While Microsoft will enter the market before the mobile version of Ubuntu is ready, Shuttleworth is confident that Ubuntu will have a part to play in the mobile market currently dominated by Android and iOS.
We have no doubt that a linux based operating system is a force to be reconnec with, especially one that comes backed with a name and reputation of Ubuntu. But the keyword is apps, and the biggest problem seen by the similar Meego (Maemo) operating system was the poor support from developers to build cross platform apps.
Will Ubuntu face the same fate ? or will you be happy using an Ubuntu based smartphone or tablet ?