Linked by Thom Holwerda on Wed 20th May 2009 20:59 UTC
When Dell announced a shift in its Linux strategy last week, accompanied by a new netbook, many wondered why Dell insisted on pre-loading Ubuntu 8.04, instead of newer versions of the popular Linux distribution such as 8.10 or 9.04. BetaNews contacted Dell about it, and Dell replied explaining their rationale behind opting for 8.04.
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Member since:2006-09-22
(...)Now, if only Ubuntu themselves would take a similarly conservative approach to their new releases, opting for quality and stability over release numbers... like that will ever happen.
On the other hand, it's a good thing that they keep working on not-so-stable stuff so, in a few years, Dell can update their OEM Ubuntu to something newer but already solid. Getting the distro in the hands of we geeks is a good way to bring it to the real world without pissing off customers. If you don't want to "beta test" then... keep using a LTS release
Dell probably has a long way to go with their Linux deployments, but at least they're trying and getting better at it.
Member since:2009-01-27
Now, if only Howie S himself would take a similarly conservative approach to his new releases...
Howie, you miss the point of 6 month updates, combined with less frequent LTS releases - they are designed to give people choice, which is a good thing. If you prefer stable releases, then go the LTS route... ignore the releases in between... and stop complaining that they are put out for the benefit of others who want them. Nobody is forcing you to upgrade. Nobody says you have to have the latest - take control of your own situation.
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/23/13 23:22 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/23/13 22:04 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/23/13 22:01 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/23/13 17:52 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/22/13 22:23 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/22/13 13:38 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/21/13 22:06 UTC
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Linked by Thom Holwerda on 05/21/13 15:53 UTC
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Member since:
2005-07-14
Without having seen Dell's actual factory-installed product, I'd have to say their choice to stick with 8.04 is the absolutely right call. It just makes sense. 8.04 will be supported up until 11.04 rolls out (yes, that's right, April of 2011.) As well, it's always risky jumping on the latest Ubuntu release before it's had time to get all the bugs worked out of it. Good on Dell for choosing stability over 'freshness'. Now, if only Ubuntu themselves would take a similarly conservative approach to their new releases, opting for quality and stability over release numbers... like that will ever happen.