James Delahunty
22 Feb 2012 7:44
"Ubuntu is the killer app for multi-core phones in 2012."
That's according to Canonical Ltd., the commercial entity backing Ubuntu linux and related products. Ubuntu for Android brings the free Desktop experience to multi-core Android smartphones which are docked with a keyboard and monitor, essentially turning the phone into a PC on demand.
According to Canonical, the phone experience is pure Android; it's a normal Android phone. When the device is connected to a computer screen, however, it launches a full Ubuntu desktop on the computer display, the same Desktop experience used by millions of home and business users on their Ubuntu PCs.
Android applications such as contacts, telephony and SMS/MMS messaging are accessible from the Ubuntu interface, as all data and services are shared between the Ubuntu and Android environments, which run simultaneously on the device.
"The desktop is the killer-app for quad-core phones in 2012" said Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Canonical. "Ubuntu for Android transforms your high-end phone into your productive desktop, whenever you need it."
Canonical points out that today's IT departments often provide both a PC and a smartphone for every employee. Ubuntu for Android then presents an alternative solution, whereby IT departments can cut the burden per employee to just one smartphone.
The customized version of Ubuntu drops in cleanly alongside the rest of Android, and the necessary Android modifications are designed for easy integration. Hardware requirements include support for HDMI and USB, standard features in high-end handsets planned for late 2012.