ARM partners with Ubuntu for netbook assault

 

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By Stuart Turton

Posted on 13 Nov 2008 at 11:32

ARM is working with Canonical, the sponsor of Ubuntu, to take on the netbook market.

The Cambridge-based chip designer will work with Canonical to create a version of Ubuntu optimised for its ARMv7 architecture.

The companies will then offer netbook manufacturers a unified hardware and software platform, which ARM claims will be able to offer all-day battery life.

Intel has already had great success with its Atom processor in the burgeoning netbook market, but has so far encountered little resistance. However, if ARM can back up its all-day claims with performance, Intel may have cause to worry.

ARM's processors, including the Cortex A8 and A9, are already found in a number of multimedia internet devices, including those produced by Archos.

"The release of a full Ubuntu desktop distribution supporting latest ARM technology will enable rapid growth," says Ian Drew, vice president of marketing for ARM.

"The always-on experience available with mobile devices is rapidly expanding to new device categories such as netbooks, laptops and other internet connected products. Working with Canonical will pave the way for the development of new features and innovations to all connected platforms."