Dell Adds MP3/WMA/WMV/DVD/HDMI Support and More to Latest Ubuntu Linux PC Offerings
By Alexander Grundner |
July 22nd, 2008
Comments (2)
Kudos to Dell for adding support for these popular codecs and technologies out of the box. Multimedia support has been a long time bug-a-boo (mostly on the legal end) since Dell decided to launch their Ubuntu Linux PC lineup last year. However, that’s now changed. Dell is now bundling support for popular multimedia codecs (including DVD playback of studio flicks), Bluetooth, HDMI, fingerprint reader, Dell wireless, and even pre-installing proprietary ATI video graphic drivers (instead of opting for the generic open ATI drivers) on select systems (note: many of Dell’s Linux systems use Intel’s open graphics chipsets, in case pre-installed proprietary drivers are an issue for ya). At this point, I can’t see anything holding back Dell from rolling their lineup to the mass consumer market, instead of a side offering, which is currently the case. I guess we’ll have to see.
Current Ubuntu line-up: XPS M1330n, Inspiron 1525n, Inspiron 530n. There’s also word that the XPS M1530n and the new Studio 15n will be unveiled this August running Ubuntu (just in time for LinuxWorld). Rumor has it that the Dell E Netbook will also be added to the mix. Personally, I’d like to see the line expanded to include the XPS ONE.
UPDATE: Regarding the side offering bit: If you roll over Dell.com’s Laptops or Desktops drop-down menu under Products in the header, you’ll now find a link to “Open-Source PCs” that takes you directly to Dell’s Ubuntu PC offering. Nice!
July 23rd, 2008 at 6:01 pm
I cant decide between the Acer One and the Dell E Video but Ubuntu Remix will be the deciding factor.
Linpus Lite is very nice (my neighbour bought the One) but the Ubuntu Remix would be a lot better.
No reason why the couldnt/shouldnt do it.
Go Dell!!
July 23rd, 2008 at 7:45 pm
For those unfamiliar with Ubuntu Netbook Remix, here’s the press release.
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