Microsoft to Partner With Ubuntu Linux?

The speculation has started. Now that Microsoft has lined up patent agreements with three Linux companies, some pundits think the software giant will pursue a deal with Canonical — keeper of the Ubuntu flame.

Ziff Davis Media’s Linux-Watch blog suggests that a Microsoft-Ubuntu relationship is only a matter of time. The VAR Guy begs to differ. Mark Shuttleworth, the man behind Ubuntu, is on record stating that he’s not interested in a patent deal with Microsoft.

Instead of reaching out to Ubuntu, The VAR Guy thinks Microsoft will continue pursuing deals with smaller Linux companies — such as Collax. Then, when all the small fries are in Microsoft’s corner, the real showdown between Microsoft and Red Hat will begin.