Install and Use Ubuntu

Ubuntu MIB (The mobile OS version) is currently being tested on the LPIA or Low Power Intel Architecture type devices.  It is now being tested on the Samsung Q1 Ultra, which is a cool looking mobile device.  What most of us would like to see is Ubuntu on the iPhone.

Here is the FAQ for The Ubuntu Mobile and Embedded Project (Courtesy of the Ubuntu site)

• What is the Ubuntu Mobile and Embedded Project?
  • The Ubuntu Mobile and Embedded project aims to derive an operating system for mobile internet devices using Ubuntu as a base. Sponsored by Canonical and Intel, the project has been launched at UDS-Sevilla following a preliminary announcement to the Ubuntu community. We will extend Ubuntu by providing infrastructure for mobile development. All of the necessary components will be integrated into the Ubuntu package archive, ready to install and run, or to tailor for custom mobile applications.
• What platforms does it run on?
  • Currently, the project is focused on x86 processors, using architectures created by Intel’s LPIA platform. The only tested device so far is the Samsung Q1 Ultra.
• Is it available? When is it going to be launched?
  • The preliminary code is already available in the Ubuntu Gutsy Gibbon repositories. Bear in mind that this is incomplete and alpha code. We expected to have a first release at the same time as Gutsy, in October.
• Can I run it on a Nokia N770/N800/N810?
  • As stated above, our current focus in in x86 processors. It should run on ARM if somebody ports it, but for now, if you have a Nokia Internet Tablet, stick with Nokia’s software.
• How about the Sharp Zaurus clamshell models, like the SL-C3200?
  • See question about Nokia N770/N800/N810 (note, no proprietary binary parts are necessary; see http://www.openembedded.org)
• What are the current minimum requirements (processor, memory, storage space, etc.)?
• How can I get started testing this on my x86-based device?
  • Set up the environment using the Image Creator. There are also tutorials and some background information in the UME Guide.
• I want to work on porting to another platform. How should I go about this?
• What’s the difference between UME packages and regular i386 packages?
  • For the kernel there are a few changes to support the LPIA architecture better (TODO: check with Amit). For the user applications, they have a special rule to enable or disable resources when compiled for LPIA. We may use the hildon interface and/or disable something that we don’t have/don’t need. We want to improve usability for small screens and fingers.

A word about bare bones systems.

Earlier we discussed building a system and picking the components.  When the big box from the delivery truck arrives, the next task can be unpleasant if you don’t like to tinker.   If you don’t like to turn a screwdriver or think that somehow you will bend every pin on that expensive CPU or get electrocuted by the power supply, then the bare bones system is for you.  Browse the Tigerdirect or Egghead websites and look at all the options.  No need for any software, as Linux will free you from the Microsoft pay as you upgrade model.  Do you really want to pay several hundred dollars to look at a spreadsheet or a powerpoint presentation???  Open source software is gaining popularity and can replace 98% of what the traditional Windows box can do.  In my opinion, it can do the 98% of things 200% better.  Windows sucks.