World’s First Ubuntu Linux Tablet Converts Into A Complete PC, Thanks To Convergence

 

Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition – Tablet Mode (Image: Canonical)

Short Bytes: Believing in convergence, Canonical has unveiled the world’s first tablet that runs on Ubuntu Linux. The Ubuntu-maker promises  that it’s a device that can provide you a complete Ubuntu desktop experience as you plug-in a keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Built by Spanish OEM BQ, the price of this device hasn’t been revealed. According to the sources, we can expect a price tag of $260.
Few years back, when Ubuntu Linux showed off its new Unity PC interface, people called it one master interface for laptops, PCs, and tablets. Well, that day has finally arrived as Canonical has unveiled the world’s first Ubuntu tablet, Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition.

Believing in Convergence, Ubuntu maker Canonical has announced its first ever tablet that transforms and gives you the complete desktop experience. Just plug-in a keyboard and mouse and your 10.1-inch tablet turns into a windowed interface. As you add a monitor, it becomes a full Ubuntu PC. Sounds cool to me.
In its statement, Canonical says that Aquaris M10 is the first in a series of converged devices. So, get ready for some more in near future. Built by Spanish OEM BQ, the price of this device hasn’t been revealed. According to the sources, we can expect a price tag of $260.
In a statement, Jane Silber, Canonical CEO said: “We’re bringing you everything you’ve come to expect from your Ubuntu PC, now on the tablet with BQ, soon on smartphones. This isn’t a phone interface stretched to desktop size – it’s the right user experience and interaction model for the given situation.

Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition – Desktop Mode (Image: Canonical)

What are the specifications of Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition?

Apart from offering an Ubuntu convergent experience, Aquaris M10 is the first tablet running on Ubuntu Linux. Here are its specifications:

• A 10.1-inch IPS touch display with HD 1920×1200 pixel resolution at 240 ppi
• MediaTek quad-core MT8163A 1.5GHz processor
• 2GB RAM and 16GB internal storage, approximately 11GBs is available for use
• MicroSD slot (up to 64GB)
• 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, FM Radio
• 8-megapixel camera with autofocus and dual flash
• Front mounted speakers
• Micro HDMI port
• 7,280mAh Li-Po battery

What are the key Ubuntu convergence features?

Aquaris M10 Ubuntu Edition – Windowed Mode (Image: Canonical)

Ubuntu makes multitasking and windows management easier. It brings a full range of desktop applications and thin client support for productivity and mobile. You get to manage applications easily and get the advantage of integrated services with desktop notifications.
According to Canonical, convergence makes file browsing and file and folder management much easier. As you switch the interface, the responsive applications detect the point/click input and re-shape according to the UI. “Also, in terms of applications, we have something no other OS can provide: a single, visual framework and set of tools for applications to run on any type of Ubuntu smart device,” says Jane Silber
Apart from Canonical, the similar convergence approach is being pushed forward by Microsoft in the form of Windows 10. The company launched Windows 10 last July and showed us what it’s trying to achieve with Continuum.
About this competition, Silber says, “We share a vision with Microsoft. I think they have a very similar view of what’s happening in the personal computing space.” She adds: “On the one hand it’s competition, on the other hand it’s reinforcement.”