While Microsoft has been blanketing the media with promotions around its new Windows XP release, new versions of three major commercial Linux distributions also hit store shelves this week. The new software from Red Hat, SuSE and MandrakeSoft promises a better experience for seasoned Linux users, and may also strengthen Linux"s attractiveness to ordinary end-users in the home or office.
SuSE and MandrakeSoft, in particular, have recently focused on improving the experience of installing and using Linux for new users, while Red Hat -- the biggest Linux seller -- has retained more of a business focus. Red Hat is also venturing into the embedded market, which handles such non-PC devices as kiosks and set-top boxes, with the announcement of a new version of its Embedded Linux Developer Suite this week.