The latest discussions on desktop technologies are now never complete, without reference to the devolution of desktops. Today these behemoths of lore are fast-becoming devices of the past as newer technologies power faster, more sophisticated form factors for computation. Desktops, by and large will be around for time to come but are ’evolut-ing’ with most branded software deploying newer technologies, as in the new OS by Mac. The new Lion OS has multi-touch capabilities with close to 250 plus feature-revisions, additions!
Open source desktop with Ubuntu
Open source technologies too are definitely part of the micro-evolution of the conventional desktop functionalities. In the case of Ubuntu, the open source software backed by Canonical, which has been a fast adaptor to emerging technologies with three verticals- cloud, thinner client computing and business consumer based-technologies, users have an alternative to the influence of Windows. From the standpoint of Ubuntu’s adaptability to desktop computing, it is positively poised to determine the next generation of desktops. This is largely because desktop computing, is fast emerging as to be happening in anything but the machine itself and Ubuntu is defining these capabilities to become the desktop of the future.
Ubuntu desktop for two consumer levels
Ubuntu can be viewed at becoming next generation desktop at two levels. First it will continue to be the most popular desktop software on FOSS platform, given the more structured, almost professional follow-through and deployment capabilities it possesses in reviewing and updating with releases, patches etc.
In open source software, Ubuntu continues to offer the best user experience. (Overlooking Unity, the desktop’s complete acceptance and the longer adaption-cycle of Ubuntu, professionals.) Like other FOSS, it lowers of high OS costs, optimizes Office productivity and anti-virus software. Even fourth generation hardware and legacy hardware can continue to run in homes as new generations of users learn the nuances of opensource software firsthand, with Ubuntu Desktop.
With Ubuntu 11.10 round the corner and Ubuntu Cloud breaking the class ceiling into one million user segment, it has indeed put down strong foundations.
Ubuntu for organizational consumers
At another level, Ubuntu is being considered as a strong contender in Proprietary desktop software strongholds, the institutional and business organizational use.
Traditionally, open source software was viewed largely for savings on massive licensing fees and technologies, but today Ubuntu goes beyond being an alternative and becoming the first choice. This is largely due to the increasing technology freedom it gives organizations to customize to their requirements. It allows them to build leaner, easier intra-use with minimal management costs and threshold hardware.
Ubuntu will define the next generation of desktops due to the increased productivity it can bring to an organization, secure features, despite larger-user base as well as easier management and technical stability. With their innovative Ubuntu Partner Programmes and similar services, Ubuntu is looking to provide PCs that boot up with minimized lag-time, become faster and never crash. Typical security of 24-hour updates and LTS of three years will mean foolproof and immediate patching of malicious software.
Next generation Desktop with Ubuntu
Ubuntu is the harbinger of newer capabilities for the Desktop and it has to be acknowledged that its developers’ remain focussed on offering the true open source experience whether for personal use or at enterprise level.
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