Ubuntu for Android turns smartphones into computers - Telegraph.co.uk

In an approach similar to that adopted by Google's Android operating system, Ubuntu for Android is also easy for manufacturers to adapt. It uses thumb gestures from all four edges of the screen to switch between apps and allow users to find content, a global search similar to that found on Windows 8 tablets, voice and text commands, compatibility with both native and web apps and personalized homescreens.

The device targets what Canonical calls "aspirational prosumers", who want the latest devices, and – possibly more successfully - the "entry-level basic smartphone". It aims to help "operators grow the use of data amongst consumers who typically use only the phone and messaging but who might embrace the use of web and email on their phone".

^{The Motorola Atrix also tried to use a phone to run a computer but did not sell well}

It could also be attractive to corporate clients who are turning away from BlackBerry but want secure, unified features across mobile and PC.

"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" said Jane Silber, CEO of Canonical. "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."

"We are defining a new era of convergence in technology, with one unified operating system that underpins cloud computing, data centers, PCs and consumer electronics" said Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Ubuntu and VP Products at Canonical.

Over 20 million desktop PCs currently run Ubuntu, and Canonical claims that close to 10 per cent of the world's new desktops and laptops will ship with Ubuntu in 2014. The OS is most popular in servers, however, and the phone is likely to take some time before it is offered to consumers.

The code will be released as a file which for Samsung's Galaxy Nexus phone by the end of the month, replacing Android, and devices running the software will be demonstrated at next week's CES show in Las Vegas.