HP dumps Linux in UK

 

Gallery

By Stuart Turton

Posted on 6 Feb 2009 at 08:19

HP has confirmed that it will not be offering a Linux option on its new range of netbooks in the UK.

Three versions of HP's Mini 1000 netbook will be available in the US, with the company offering a premium-priced Vivienne Tam model, a regular XP version and one bundled with its customised Ubuntu desktop, called the Mobile Internet Edition.

However, UK customers will only be offered the Vivienne Tam model which is currently on sale for £450.

The decision means that the only HP netbook customers can buy bearing a Linux OS is the year-old Mini 2133, which as our review notes has problems with "performance, or rather the palpable lack of it, courtesy of the VIA C7-M 1.2GHz processor."

The HP Mini 1000 attempts to correct this problem by switching out the VIA C7 for an Intel Atom.

Asked to clarify why the decision has been taken to drop Linux option, HP responded with the following statement.

"HP assessed the current EMEA market and believes that the Compaq 700 and HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition better address the market and consumer needs".

Customers who wish to utilise HP's customised Ubuntu desktop will soon be able to download an installer from the company's website, the company has confirmed.