Canonical Launches Ubuntu Edge Superphone - PC Combination Campaign
Canonical, the developer of the Ubuntu operating system has turned to a crowdfunding site in an attempt to launch a handset pre-installed with its software. The company is seeking to raise $32m over the next 30 days to produce 40,000 devices.
Canonical launched the biggest ever crowdfunding campaign to develop the Ubuntu Edge, converging mobile convenience with desktop power in a single device.
By supporting Ubuntu Edge, the Indiegogo and Ubuntu communities will be accelerating the adoption of new technologies in mass-market consumer phones. Backers committing $600 on day one, or $830 thereafter, will receive one of these mobile devices in May 2014.
"Ubuntu Edge is the ultimate convergence device - challenging established norms for PCs and smartphones," said Mark Shuttleworth, Founder of Ubuntu. "The crowdfunding approach is a new way to prove demand for cutting edge technologies and new classes of devices; supporting the Ubuntu Edge is the best way to catalyze the next generation of personal devices from the industry."
The Ubuntu Edge will dual-boot Ubuntu phone OS and Android, and will transform into a PC when docked with a monitor, with the full Ubuntu desktop and shared access to all the phone?s files. For this it needs the power of a PC, so Ubuntu Edge will be equipped with the latest components and a 128GB of storage. The device replaces the traditional glass screen with a pure Sapphire crystal, so tough it could only be scratched by diamond. It will also pioneer the use of long-life silicon anode battery technology. A special dual-LTE solution will all allow high-speed roaming with access to 4G-LTE broadband in both Europe and the US.
Ubuntu Edge specifications: (subject to change)
- Dual-boot Ubuntu Edge into either Ubuntu or Android, and convert into a fully integrated Ubuntu desktop PC
- Quad-core CPU and at least 4GB RAM
- 128GB of storage for photos, music, content
- 4.5in 1,280 x 720 display with scratch-resistant Sapphire crystal glass
- Camera made for low-light, fast response and close up pictures: 8mp rear camera, 2mp front
- Dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4, NFC
- Stereo speakers (Active Noise Cancellation)
- Connect to HDMI TVs and monitors easily with MHL connector, 3.5mm jack
By supporting Ubuntu Edge, the Indiegogo and Ubuntu communities will be accelerating the adoption of new technologies in mass-market consumer phones. Backers committing $600 on day one, or $830 thereafter, will receive one of these mobile devices in May 2014.
"Ubuntu Edge is the ultimate convergence device - challenging established norms for PCs and smartphones," said Mark Shuttleworth, Founder of Ubuntu. "The crowdfunding approach is a new way to prove demand for cutting edge technologies and new classes of devices; supporting the Ubuntu Edge is the best way to catalyze the next generation of personal devices from the industry."
The Ubuntu Edge will dual-boot Ubuntu phone OS and Android, and will transform into a PC when docked with a monitor, with the full Ubuntu desktop and shared access to all the phone?s files. For this it needs the power of a PC, so Ubuntu Edge will be equipped with the latest components and a 128GB of storage. The device replaces the traditional glass screen with a pure Sapphire crystal, so tough it could only be scratched by diamond. It will also pioneer the use of long-life silicon anode battery technology. A special dual-LTE solution will all allow high-speed roaming with access to 4G-LTE broadband in both Europe and the US.
Ubuntu Edge specifications: (subject to change)
- Dual-boot Ubuntu Edge into either Ubuntu or Android, and convert into a fully integrated Ubuntu desktop PC
- Quad-core CPU and at least 4GB RAM
- 128GB of storage for photos, music, content
- 4.5in 1,280 x 720 display with scratch-resistant Sapphire crystal glass
- Camera made for low-light, fast response and close up pictures: 8mp rear camera, 2mp front
- Dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4, NFC
- Stereo speakers (Active Noise Cancellation)
- Connect to HDMI TVs and monitors easily with MHL connector, 3.5mm jack
