ARM and Linux systems could be on their way

Aug 19, 2009 10:41 GMT  ·  By

Despite the growing interest and popularity of the upcoming Windows 7 operating system, there are still some very high hopes for the open-source Linux alternatives, especially considering the popularity of small-sized, low-power PC systems such as netbooks or smartbooks. On that note, a recent report on the Internet claims that Round Rock, Texas-based Dell is currently exploring the possibility of adopting ARM processors for an upcoming line of Linux-powered smartboooks. The collaboration between Dell, one of the world's leading PC vendors, and ARM chip manufacturers could be a serious threat for the Wintel PC market space.

Smartbooks are still a long way from gaining the popularity and success rate that has been recorded with today's Intel and Windows-powered netbook systems. However, if this market segment will be supported by leading PC vendors such as Dell, the new PC segment could prove a real challenge for both Intel and Microsoft, which won't be part of this segment.

Smartbooks are essentially the ARM and Linux alternative to today's Wintel netbooks. These systems are designed as low-power PCs that provide the very basics in computing experience, in a compact, energy-efficient and ultraportable form factor that is specifically built for things such as Internet browsing. Dell has some experience with Linux, as it has been playing with this operating system for some time now. It's exactly this experience that the company could use and help the smartbook market grow. Dell's interest in the field of ARM-powered Linux products was recently revealed at the OpenSource World conference.

It's still early to say how Dell's contribution will affect the smartbook market, but it's clear that Intel and Microsoft will have something to think about, especially since almost all netbook makers will probably experiment with the ARM and Linux platform for some of their upcoming portable PCs.