IBM and Canonical Launch Linux- and Cloud-based Desktop Software in the U.S.

IBM and Canonical Launch Linux -and Cloud-based Desktop Software in the U.S.
Open Standards-based Alternative to Microsoft Windows 7 Offers 50 Percent Savings, Runs on Existing Hardware

ARMONK, N.Y. - 20 Oct 2009: Today IBM and Canonical are introducing a cloud- and Linux-based desktop package in the U.S. designed for use on a company's existing fleet of personal computers (PCs) or even low-cost netbooks.

IBM and Canonical expect to enlist hundreds of partners to offer the IBM Client for Smart Work in the U.S. in 2010. The current partner ecosystem includes regional systems integrators, ZSL and CSS Corp; virtual desktop provider, Virtual Bridges, and its distributors, Midas Networks and KalariSys; and several online, vertical industry businesses. IBM is also targeting the education market by collaborating with university faculty through the IBM Academic Initiative.

The U.S. solution includes several open standards-based components:
  • Word processing, spreadsheets and presentations from IBM Lotus Symphony, which is a free-of-charge download on the Web;
  • Email from IBM Lotus Notes or the cloud-based LotusLive iNotes launched earlier this month, which starts at $3 per user, per month;
  • Cloud-based, social networking and collaboration tools from LotusLive.com from $10 per user, per month; and
  • Ubuntu, an open platform for netbooks, laptops, desktops, and servers.
"Canonical is proud to partner with IBM to help open up the American corporate desktop through Ubuntu," said Mark Shuttleworth, founder of Ubuntu and CEO of Canonical. "IBM's smart client package running on Ubuntu will allow U.S. organizations the financial freedom to redistribute the costs of expensive software licenses into IT projects that will innovate and drive critical growth."

IBM developed this package based on client feedback and surveys, including a study conducted by the IT analyst firm Freeform Dynamics, commissioned by IBM, which showed that Linux desktops were easier to implement than IT staff expected if they targeted the right groups of users.

Ubuntu News - Announcement
http://www.ubuntu.com/news/ibm-cloud-based...otus-openclient