Skip to main content

Ubuntu coming to Nexus 7 and 10 tablets

tablet-heroWe recently reported about operating system Ubuntu’s introduction to the smartphone world, set to be released this coming October. Now, according to TechCrunch, Ubuntu’s taking it a step further by entering the tablet world. It’s not too surprising since there aren’t that many differences between the way operating systems operate on both phones and tablets.

Still, it’s a big step for the company, particularly because its OS also functions just as well on desktop computers – a bragging right that most other operating systems can’t claim. This could potentially be a big boost in Ubuntu usage since it means apps will work across all three platforms.

For users, a universally compatible operating system is great since it allows tablets operating via Ubuntu to connect to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse and function exactly as a desktop would. In other words, you’ll be able to have multiple windows of apps open with all of them running at the same time. Disconnect, and it seamlessly converts back to tablet mode.

Another really interesting feature that the platform will offer is a multi-tasking option. Some apps will be able to operate in a split-screen mode. So, while you’re Skyping with your family while on the road, you can simultaneously browse the Web or make your next Words With Friends move.

The platform will be made available for developers to test out on Nexus devices – more specifically, the Galaxy, 4, 7, and 10 – this upcoming Thursday, so we should be able to learn more about the functionality once it’s in the hands of users. It shouldn’t take long for developers to figure out a way to make the system available on other devices, though functionality won’t likely be as up to speed.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Joshua Pramis
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Spending a childhood engrossed in such technologically inspiring television shows like Voltron, Small Wonder, and Power…
Windows 7 vs. Windows 10
ubuntu

Windows 7 has been around for a long time, and it’s one of Microsoft’s most popular operating systems. But its time has now long passed, and Microsoft no longer officially supports it for the general public. It's essential to move on to something more secure and modern.  

If you're still concerned about the move, though, here are a few ways in which Windows 10 is better than Windows 7.
The look: Start menu and apps

Read more
On the day of its death, Windows 7 is the second-most popular operating system
Windows 7 Laptop

Windows 7 was first available for consumers to purchase in October of 2009, and nearly more a decade later, its time is finally coming to end. Today, January 14, officially marks the end of support for the Windows 7 operating system, meaning Microsoft will no longer provide free security updates.

Even so, Windows 7 is still much-loved and is still quite popular, falling second only to Windows 10. According to data from NetMarketShare, Windows 7 holds a 32.75% share of the operating system market, behind Windows 10's 47.65%. That's also larger than MacOS Mojave's 10.14% share, and way ahead of the Chrome OS share of 0.39%.

Read more
Amazon drops the price for the Fire HD 10 Tablet with hands-free Alexa
Amazon Fire HD 10 review (2017) DT homepage

Previous

Next

Read more