If you were interested in the new Ubuntu Phone smartphone operating system unveiled by Canonical earlier this month ahead of CES 2013, a video created by Brad Linder at CES 2013 this week might be of interest to you. This video provides a more detailed hands-on look at the new Ubuntu Phone OS. Check it out after the break.
“By bringing its leading open PC platform to the mobile arena, Canonical gives handset manufacturers and mobile carriers the ability to converge phone, PC and other thin client access into a single device.”
Features and Capabilities of Ubuntu Phone OS
The Ubuntu Phone OS is designed to offer a seamless experience across various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs. One of the standout features is its ability to run the same applications on both mobile and desktop environments, providing a unified user experience. This convergence is achieved through a unique interface that adapts to the screen size and input methods of the device being used.
The OS also supports a wide range of gestures for navigation, making it intuitive and user-friendly. For instance, swiping from the left edge of the screen brings up the launcher, while swiping from the right edge allows users to switch between open applications. This gesture-based navigation eliminates the need for physical buttons, giving the device a sleek and modern look.
Potential Impact on the Mobile Market
No hardware manufacturer or carrier support has been announced as yet by Canonical for its new Ubuntu Phone OS, but the potential impact on the mobile market is significant. If adopted widely, it could offer a viable alternative to the dominant Android and iOS platforms. The open-source nature of Ubuntu Phone OS could attract developers and manufacturers looking for more flexibility and control over their devices.
Moreover, the ability to run desktop applications on a smartphone could appeal to business users and professionals who need powerful computing capabilities on the go. Imagine being able to connect your phone to a monitor and keyboard to use it as a full-fledged PC. This could revolutionize the way we think about mobile computing and blur the lines between different types of devices.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite its promising features, the Ubuntu Phone OS faces several challenges. The mobile market is highly competitive, and gaining a foothold will require significant support from hardware manufacturers and carriers. Additionally, the success of the OS will depend on the availability of applications. While the ability to run desktop applications is a strong selling point, the OS will also need a robust ecosystem of mobile apps to attract users.
Canonical will need to work closely with developers to ensure that popular applications are available on the platform. They will also need to address any performance and compatibility issues that may arise from running the same applications on different types of devices.
As soon as more information comes to light, we will keep you updated as always. The future of the Ubuntu Phone OS is still uncertain, but its innovative approach to convergence and open-source philosophy make it a platform worth watching.
Source: Liliputing
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