Canonical, the company behind the Ubuntu version of Linux, has announced that the Ubuntu version of the Intel Compute Stick will go on sale starting this week.

The Compute Stick is basically a computer in an HDMI dongle, allowing users to simply carry their computer around in their pocket, as long as they know that will have an HDMI-capable display wherever they need to use it.

"Consumers are looking for a more personal, flexible and cost-effective computing experience, and also looking for a choice of OS," said Jan Silber, CEO of Canonical, in a statement. "It's great to see Ubuntu becomes part of the Compute Stick family. This is another example of how we're working with Intel to bring a wide range of devices to market to give as many people as possible the chance to discover Ubuntu."

The stick itself will feature the 64-bit version of Ubuntu 14.04 LTS and includes an Intel Atom 1.3 GHz quad-core processor. The device also features 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage. Of course, this isn't the power needed for high-quality media production, but for business-people on the go or those needing to use fairly processor-light applications, the Compute Stick should be fine.

The Compute Stick follows the release of other HDMI-based devices, including the hugely popular Google Chromecast, which is essentially a video and content streaming device with which users can stream content from their smartphone and computer to their TV.

The Ubuntu-based Compute Stick is not the only version of the device available, with a Compute Stick with Windows version already on sale. The Windows version of the device costs $150 and features slightly better hardware, including 2 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage. Not only that, but a Windows 10 version of the device has been announced and is set to go on sale when Windows 10 is released, and those with a Windows 8.1 version of the Compute Stick will get a free upgrade to Windows 10 when it comes out.

The Ubuntu version of the Intel Compute Stick will be sold by online retailers such as Amazon and Newegg and will also be available from brick-and-mortar stores like Best Buy. Canonical did not give a specific release date other than to say that it would be released the week of July 6. It will cost $110.

It is likely that we will begin to see more and more devices of this nature as computer parts become smaller and more powerful, allowing for complete computing experiences straight from a small dongle.

Via: TheNextWeb

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