Ubuntu recently took to Kickstarter to try and fund their first smartphone, the Ubuntu Edge. Unfortunately, they did not raise the funds they needed for the project. Despite this setback, they are still diligently working on Ubuntu Touch, which is their mobile operating system.
Ubuntu Touch will apparently launch on the 17th of October as Ubuntu Touch 1.0. The new OS is designed to work seamlessly on both smartphones and tablets, offering a unified experience across different types of devices.
“We are exactly one month away from the release of [Ubuntu 13.10] Saucy Salamander,” Skaggs wrote on the 17th. “As part of that release, Ubuntu is committed to delivering an image of Ubuntu-Touch, ready to install on supported devices.”
“Only four and a half weeks to go, and phone 1.0 will be a reality!” Minier excitedly exclaimed.
Features and Capabilities of Ubuntu Touch
Ubuntu Touch aims to bring a fresh perspective to the mobile OS landscape. Unlike other operating systems, Ubuntu Touch is built around the concept of convergence. This means that the same OS can run on a smartphone, tablet, or even a desktop computer, adapting its interface to suit the device. This is a significant departure from the traditional approach where different devices require different operating systems.
One of the standout features of Ubuntu Touch is its use of Scopes. Scopes are essentially home screens that aggregate content and services in a single view. For example, you could have a Scope for music that pulls in content from your local library, online streaming services, and even YouTube. This makes it easier for users to find what they are looking for without having to jump between different apps.
Another key feature is the emphasis on privacy and security. Ubuntu Touch is designed to give users more control over their data. For instance, it includes built-in encryption and allows users to manage app permissions more granularly than other mobile operating systems.
Developer and Community Support
Ubuntu released the developer edition of Ubuntu Touch back in February, and since then, it has garnered significant interest from the developer community. The open-source nature of the OS means that developers can contribute to its development, create custom ROMs, and build apps specifically for Ubuntu Touch.
Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, has also been working closely with hardware manufacturers to ensure that Ubuntu Touch can run on a variety of devices. While the OS will launch next month, the first devices are expected to hit the market by the end of the year or early next year. This staggered release allows for more thorough testing and optimization, ensuring a smoother experience for end-users.
The community around Ubuntu Touch is vibrant and active. Forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites provide a wealth of information and support for both new and experienced users. This community-driven approach has been one of the strengths of Ubuntu on the desktop, and it is expected to be a significant asset for Ubuntu Touch as well.
In conclusion, while the Kickstarter campaign for the Ubuntu Edge smartphone may not have succeeded, the development of Ubuntu Touch continues to move forward. With its unique features, strong focus on privacy, and robust community support, Ubuntu Touch has the potential to make a significant impact in the mobile OS market.
Source PCWorld
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