Ubuntu Linux is now ready to power your appliances and robots
Ubuntu Linux has spread to quite a few platforms in its 10-year history, if not always successfully. Today, though, the open source software is tackling what could be its greatest challenge yet: the internet of things. Canonical has released a version of its stripped-down snappy Ubuntu Core for connected devices like home appliances, robots and anything else where a conventional PC operating system wouldn't fly. It's designed to run on modest hardware (a 600MHz processor will do) and provide easy updates, all the while giving gadget makers the freedom to customize the software for whatever they're building. It promises to be extra-reliable, too -- it only applies updates if the code checks out, so you won't lose control of your smart thermostat due to a buggy upgrade.
Snappy Ubuntu Core is getting off to a modest start. The early focus is on hardware for enthusiasts and pros who don't mind jumping in with both feet. Right now, you'll mostly see the software on developer boards like the Beaglebone Black and Odroid-C1, an educational drone from Erie Robotics and some Intel Xeon-powered servers. However, Canonical promises The Next Web that partnerships with big-name companies are coming. It may not be too long before you're outfitting your home with Ubuntu-based devices that are more powerful (and hopefully more trustworthy) than what you use today.
