Ubuntu for Mobile: What the Move Into Phones and Tablets Meant

The announcement

Ubuntu planned to widen compatibility of its OS to newer devices. Some commentators said this would put it in competition with Android. The author thought “could” was more accurate than “would”.

Why the author was sceptical

Linux appeals to a small group of enthusiasts, but Google drew many people to Android in the first place. The author described Ubuntu as the system that revived old laptops and netbooks, or a simple choice for a relative who only needs email and sports scores. A mobile version, in their view, was a very different product.

Prediction: tablets first

Since Ubuntu already runs on many old computers, the author expected a tablet port before any phone. They had used it on three netbooks, and one buyer liked that it did not come with Windows.

Open source and patents

At best, the author hoped for a truly open platform where users could modify the software without fearing a voided warranty. They also wondered whether partner manufacturers could use it to avoid the patent disputes facing Android. No major company had attacked Linux at that point.