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Dell explains Linux delays

By David Meyer , ZDNet UK on May 7, 2007 

 

Summary

Language, driver and training considerations are behind Dell's decision to limit the launch of pre-installed Linux to the United States, the PC manufacturer claims.

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Dell has revealed the reasons behind its decision to delay the availability of Linux sold in the United Kingdom.

The PC manufacturer is rolling out a number of models with pre-installed Ubuntu Linux later this month. But initially those models will only be available to customers based in the United States.

It emerged last week that UK customers would not be offered pre-installed Ubuntu for the time being. Shortly after, Dell's EMEA director of client marketing, Eric Greffier, elaborated further. Speaking to ZDNet UK he suggested that the greatest volume of responses to its Linux survey had come from the United States, but he also pointed to wider considerations.

"We can't just look at the commercial view," said Greffier. "The challenge behind Linux is about support. In the United States, they are going to do it on one product, in one language. We have to have the right troubleshooting scripts translated into [many more] languages." He also cited driver certification and training as further reasons to delay pre-installed Linux.

"We are adjusting the roadmap for the rest of the world, but this has just not been announced yet," Greffier added.

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