Canonical has announced its first smartphone for the mobile version of Ubuntu OS – Ubuntu Edge. With Ubuntu Edge smartphone company plans to merge the desktop computer and mobile devices. The Ubuntu Edge is a very ambitious and beautifully crafted smartphone that will be capable of running a full-fledged Ubuntu desktop operating system alongside Android.
Though the specs are currently tentative, company has released the details about the technical specifications for the Ubuntu Edge. As for internal specifications, the Edge features the “fastest multi-core CPU”, 4GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, 4.5-inch 1,280 x 720 HD sapphire crystal display, 8MP low-light rear camera, 2MP front camera and stereo speakers. As for the connectivity, Ubuntu Edge will offer dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4 and NFC along with MHL support.
Ubuntu Edge smartphone will let users dual boot Ubuntu mobile OS and Android. You’ll also be able to launch a fully integrated Ubuntu desktop PC — connect to any monitor and this Ubuntu phone transforms into an Ubuntu PC, with a fully integrated desktop OS and shared access to all files. You will be able to launch the Ubuntu desktop from within Android using our existing Ubuntu for Android app.
The company plans to crowd-funding with $32 million Indiegogo campaign to get the device on its feet. Ubuntu says it wants to raise $32 million for the Ubuntu Edge from “enthusiasts and mobile computing professionals”. According to company founder, Mark Shuttleworth, the Indiegogo route meant to solve an “innovation gap” that’s arisen during talks with manufacturers over its grander vision. According to Shuttleworth, the Edge will only come to market if backers make it happen, as “none of the phone manufacturers are yet ambitious enough to try to put both things in one package.”
Canonical will charge $600 (£390) for the first day of the campaign (and the first 5000 customers) with free shipping to the US and UK. After that, it will cost $830 for the smartphone with free shipping in US and UK, add $30 for all other destinations.
Ubuntu Edge Smartphone Technical Specifications (Tentative)
- Dual boot Ubuntu mobile OS and Android
- Fully integrated Ubuntu desktop PC when docked
- Fastest multi-core CPU, 4GB RAM, 128GB storage
- 4.5in 1,280 x 720 HD sapphire crystal display
- 8mp low-light rear camera, 2mp front camera
- Dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4, NFC
- GPS, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, barometer
- Stereo speakers with HD audio, dual-mic recording, Active Noise Cancellation
- MHL connector, 3.5mm jack
- Silicon-anode Li-Ion battery
- 64 x 9 x 124mm
Ubuntu Edge smartphone aims to hit the market next year, in May 2014. Stay tuned for more information about Ubuntu Edge smartphone.
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