IBM launches Linux PCs outside Microsoft operating system

08 December 2008

IBM has introduced a new line of business computers that works on a combination of Linux open source software and the company's own `Lotus Symphony' software, and does not require the use of Microsoft's ubiquitous operating system.

The system, jointly developed by IBM, Virtual Bridges and Canonical, claims significant savings compared with Microsoft-desktop software by amplifying Lotus collaboration software and Ubuntu to a larger user base through virtualisation.

The new operating system facilitates word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications based on the open document format while also makes available the IBM Lotus Notes applications.

With 15 on-demand business applications available, the system is also ready for customising and building on current tools, IBM said in a release.

It would offer users a saving of $500 to $800 on Microsoft software licences and an additional $258 per user on upgrading hardware to support Windows Vista and Office, IBM said.

The new system also claims to use less power per unit and reduced power to run the configuration as also reduced air conditioning requirements from lower powered desktop devices.