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PHL among countries to get first crack at Ubuntu smartphones


Filipinos may be among the first to get a first crack at using smartphones powered by the Linux-based Ubuntu operating system.
 
Canonical said Smart Philippines will be among its first partners to ship Ubuntu smartphones manufactured by China-based Meizu.
 
“Ubuntu’s entry to the mobile phone market is definitely exciting. We see this as an interesting opportunity to help bring mobile innovations quicker to the market, lower access barriers and provide more choices in terms of apps and devices,” an Ubuntu blog post quoted Smart's wireless chief wireless advisor Orlando Vea as saying.
 
“We’re very keen to work with Ubuntu and the developer community in making this happen as it supports our goal to bring the mobile Internet to every Filipino,” Vea added.
 
Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, also announced online campaigns with BQ and Meizu to make Ubuntu phones available globally.
 
Also, Canonical said it is working with partners to ship the first Ubuntu devices on the latest hardware in 2014.
 
The Ubuntu phones focus on content and services "rather than hiding them behind stores and apps."
 
It said this "gives consumers a fresh and rich way to engage with their favorite videos, music and other mobile activities."
 
Also, it said this means OEMs and operators have unprecedented customization opportunities with a common user interface toolkit.
 
“The mobile industry has long been looking for a viable alternative to those that reign today. Ubuntu puts the control back into the hands of our partners and presents an exciting platform for consumers, delivering an experience which departs from the tired app icon grid of Android and iOS and provides a fluid, content-rich experience for all,” said Canonical founder Mark Shuttleworth.
 
A separate report on The Verge noted the Ubuntu phones will likely target emerging markets, "where Ubuntu will have an easier time standing out beside iOS and Android." — ELR, GMA News
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