ARM and Canonical to Bring Full Ubuntu Desktop Experience to Low-Power, ARM Technology-Based Computing Devices
Popular Commercially-Supported Linux Distribution Ubuntu to be Available on Low-Power ARM SoCs With Rich Integrated Graphics and Video Subsystems and a Proven Track Record of Low-Power Design
CAMBRIDGE, England, November 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ARM ((LSE:
ARM); (Nasdaq: ARMH)) and Canonical Ltd, the commercial sponsor of Ubuntu(R),
today announced that it will bring the full Ubuntu Desktop operating system
to the ARMv7 processor architecture to address demand from device
manufacturers. The addition of the new operating system will enable new
netbooks and hybrid computers, targeting energy-efficient ARM(R)
technology-based SoCs, to deliver a rich, always-connected, mobile computing
experience, without compromising battery life.
The combination of a commercially supported, optimized Ubuntu
distribution for ARM, together with Canonical's ability to tailor solutions
to specific ARM technology-based devices and OEM requirements, ensures that
highly-optimized systems can be rapidly deployed into the fast growing mobile
computing market. ARM's wide partnership with leading semiconductor and
device manufacturers strengthens the mobile computing software ecosystem and
extends the market reach for Ubuntu-based products.
"The release of a full Ubuntu desktop distribution supporting latest ARM
technology will enable rapid growth, with internet everywhere, connected
ultra portable devices," said Ian Drew, vice president of Marketing, ARM.
"The always-on experience available with mobile devices is rapidly expanding
to new device categories such as netbooks, laptops and other internet
connected products. Working with Canonical will pave the way for the
development of new features and innovations to all connected platforms."
"This is a natural development for Ubuntu, driven by the demand from
manufacturers for an ARM technology-based version," said Jane Silber, COO of
Canonical. "Joining the considerable community of free software developers
working on the ARM platform ensures that a fully-functional, optimized Ubuntu
distribution is available to the ARM ecosystem, providing wider choice for
consumers looking for the best operating system for their digital lifestyles."
This version of the Ubuntu Desktop operating system will target the ARMv7
architecture including ARM Cortex-A8 and Cortex-A9 processor-based systems.
Canonical's support of a full ARM distribution will strengthen the ARM Linux
ecosystem and widen the opportunity to leverage ARM technology into
fast-growing markets. This partnership further highlights both ARM and
Canonical's support for open source initiatives and leverages contributions
from key open source communities including Linux kernel, Debian, GNOME, and
Mozilla communities. The Ubuntu ARM distribution for desktops and netbooks
will be officially available from April 2009.
About ARM
ARM designs the technology that lies at the heart of advanced digital
products, from wireless, networking and consumer entertainment solutions to
imaging, automotive, security and storage devices. ARM's comprehensive
product offering includes 32-bit RISC microprocessors, graphics processors,
enabling software, cell libraries, embedded memories, high-speed connectivity
products, peripherals and development tools. Combined with comprehensive
design services, training, support and maintenance, and the company's broad
Partner community, they provide a total system solution that offers a fast,
reliable path to market for leading electronics companies. More information
on ARM is available at http://www.arm.com.
About Canonical Ltd
Canonical Ltd, the commercial sponsor of Ubuntu, is a global organization
headquartered in Europe committed to the development, distribution and
support of open source software products and communities. World-class 24x7
commercial support for Ubuntu is available through Canonical's global support
team and partners. Since its launch in October 2004, Ubuntu has become one of
the most highly regarded Linux distributions with millions of users around
the world.
ARM is a registered trademark of ARM Limited. Cortex is a trademark of
ARM. Limited.. All other brands or product names are the property of their
respective holders. "ARM" is used to represent ARM Holdings plc; its
operating company ARM Limited; and the regional subsidiaries: ARM, Inc.; ARM
KK; ARM Korea Ltd.; ARM Taiwan Limited; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting
(Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Belgium N.V.; AXYS Design Automation Inc.; ARM
Germany GmbH; ARM Embedded Technologies Pvt. Ltd.; and ARM Norway, AS.
Ubuntu and Canonical are registered trademarks of Canonical Ltd.
Contact Details:
ARM PRESS OFFICE: +44-208-846-0797
Vicky Hayden
Text 100
+44-20-8846-0859
vicky.hayden@text100.co.uk
Michelle Spencer
ARM
+44-1628-427-780
michelle.spencer@arm.com
Erik Ploof
ARM
+1-425-880-6033
erik.ploof@arm.com
