Dell has launched two desktops and a notebook running Ubuntu Linux 7.04: the XPS 410n and Dimension E520n desktops and the Inspiron E1505n notebook. Starting at $599, the Inspiron notebook is powered by an Intel Pentium Dual Core T2080 microprocessor and includes a 15.4-inch display, 512MB of memory, an 80GB hard drive, built-in Wi-Fi support, and a CD/DVD drive that can burn CDs but not DVDs. Both the Dimension (starting at $599) and XPS desktops (starting at $849) include Intel Core 2 Duo E4300 processors, 1GB of memory, a 250GB hard drive, and a 256MB Nvidia Geforce 7300LE graphics card. The XPS, however, includes a 19-inch display, versus a 17-inch for the Dimension, and a read/write DVD drive. The Dimension has the same drive as the Inspiron.
The long-awaited release is a landmark for Linux in the consumer market. Until now, no computer maker with the market strength of Dell has made a similar commitment to supporting the free software. To help customers get more help with running Linux, Dell has created a Linux forum that offers buyers an online channel for discussing experiences and sharing information. The systems come with hardware support through Dell"s normal support channels. Software support will come from a variety of dedicated Web sites and Linux forums. Buyers can also choose service upgrades from Canonical, the sponsor of Ubuntu.