Erle-Copter Erle Robotics

Ubuntu could soon been powering all manner of connected devices and autonomous machines with the newly unveiled Snappy Ubuntu Core, which has been designed specifically for the Internet of Things.

As the latest and lightest version of the Ubuntu operating system, Snappy -- as we will affectionately refer to it -- is aimed at developers who want to create connected devices or robots using an open, safe system that isn't overly clunky, and so can be easily customised.


The benefits of Snappy, according to Canonical, Ubuntu's parent company, are that it provides "bulletproof security", along with regular, automatic updates and of course, access to the wider Ubuntu ecosystem. "This is the smallest, safest Ubuntu ever, on devices and on the cloud," said Canonical founder Mark Shuttleworth.

The cloud-based technology will see software and security updates pushed out automatically to all connected devices. All updates will be preceded by application data backup, which will allow for a rollback if the update should for any reason fail -- even though Canonical insists that they are "guaranteed to succeed every time".

The company has highlighted pioneers in robotics and drones as those who will explore, initially at least, applications for the operating system. Supporting this will of course be an app store, which will see open-source software delivered directly to devices and robots.


One such example of this is the Erle-Copter -- the world's first Ubuntu Core-powered drone. The operating system will allow the drone both to say secure and be updated with additional capabilities as new apps are developed. "An open platform attracts innovators and experts to collaborate and compete, we are excited to lead the way with open drones for education, research and invention," said Erle Robotics CEO Victor Mayoral Vilches.

Canonical has also been working with the Open Source Robotics Foundation in order to make sure Snappy underpins the work it is doing. "Ubuntu Core enables our new app store for open robots," commented the Foundation's CEO, Brian Gerkey.

Beyond robots, Ninja Blocks' Ninja Sphere will also benefit from Snappy Ubuntu Core, through the medium of a home app platform. This will basically allow for the connection of a whole range of devices, including big names in home automation like Nest. "The open Ninja Sphere controller based on Ubuntu Core is a perfect base for building apps that interact with devices and sensors in your home. We look forward to the growth of a new ecosystem of inventors and creators and are delighted to provide them with a blank canvas for their creativity," said Daniel Friedman, CEO of Ninja Blocks.