Today KiWi PC Announced that they are now offering an entry-level desktop PC package "designed with the concerns of senior citizens in mind".

KiWi PC on Thursday announced that it is now offering an entry-level desktop PC package "designed with the concerns of senior citizens in mind."

The KiWi PC desktop runs a customized version of Ubuntu Linux 10.10, optimized for social networking and communication. Designed to be a one-box solution, the KiWi PC includes a 19-inch monitor, one-year of tech support, pre-loaded software, access to a download store, and lifetime upgrade support (just pay for parts) from KiWi PC.

The KiWi PC screen defaults to an interface called Me Menu, which displays frequently visited Web sites, e-mail, and other programs. The system's Evolution Mail program integrates e-mail and social media from various providers like Yahoo, Gmail, MSN, Jabber, AOL, and QQ. Chat is also supported through Evolution Mail.

The system's included keyboard is color-coded to assist the senior in navigating the Web, and the system comes with a 250GB hard drive for local storage. The system is essentially an entry-level nettop, with 2GB of memory, an Intel Atom D510 processor, DVD burner, integrated Intel GMA graphics, and the previously mentioned 19-inch monitor. KiWi PC's user interface is customizable, including colors, themes, and font scaling (very important for those with eyesight issues).

Since the KiWi PC is Linux-based, it won't be subject to the countless Windows viruses and malware that seems to always find their way on to your great-aunt's PC. She will of course still have to watch out for phishing schemes, but at least you won't have to worry about her KiWi PC becoming a member of a botnet after she clicks on a Facebook link. Linux viruses and malware do exist, but Linux-based anti-malware tools tend to be free as well. It goes without saying that your senior user will have to have a wired Internet connection at his or her home in order to use the KiWi PC.

KiWi PC's desktop is available now on KiWiPC.com for a price of $499.99, shipping included.