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Ubuntu Netbooks: Strong Demand at System76
As I scour the market for a potential Ubuntu netbook purchase, I've stumbled onto two interesting tidbits of info: First, Ubuntu netbook demand recently exceeded supply at System76. Second, another niche Ubuntu PC maker will introduce a netbook this August. Sorry I don't have specific "sales figures" for you. But I do have anecdotal pieces of info...
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System76 Netbook
As I scour the market for a potential Ubuntu netbook purchase, I’ve stumbled onto two interesting tidbits of info: First, Ubuntu netbook demand recently exceeded supply at System76. Second, another niche Ubuntu PC maker will introduce a netbook this August.Sorry I don’t have specific “sales figures” for you. But I do have anecdotal pieces of info…
First up, System76 President Carl Richell says demand for the company’s Starling NetBook and Meerkat NetTops has been particularly strong. In an email to me, Richell wrote:
“We’ve had some challenges due to growth this year. Starling NetBook demand drove us out of stock two weeks earlier than projected. Meerkat NetTops were out of stock for 2 weeks forcing delays — they’re back now. Two products launches are awaiting enough stock to fulfill initial orders — the Meerkat Ion NetTop and The Leopard i7 desktop. We’re adjusting to higher Ubuntu product demand.”
How much higher demand? That’s difficult to say since System76 is privately held. But earlier this year, Richell told me his 1Q 2009 revenues rose 61 percent compared to 1Q 2008. It sounds like the System76’s momentum continues.
More Netbooks Coming
Meanwhile, I hear another Ubuntu PC specialist is preparing a netbook launch — with availability expected sometime in August. As soon as I firm up the product details I will be sure to share them.
I’m also closely watching system updates at Dell, which continues to offer Ubuntu netbooks and laptops. However, Dell.com’s US website (www.dell.com/ubuntu) as of July 27 still was not offering Ubuntu-based desktop PCs.
Dell in early July told ComputerWorld the company was simply transitioning to a new Ubuntu desktop offering. But so far the Ubuntu desktop has yet to debut on Dell’s site.
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