Dell drops Ubuntu powered PCs?

Dell has decided to stop selling home computers pre-installed with the Ubuntu operating system, a flavour of Linux, on its web store – at least for the moment.

So PC Pro reports, pointing out that a search for Ubuntu on the Dell UK website just produces the one laptop model now (the Latitude 2100, which is a business notebook).

However, when prodded by PC Pro regarding this development, Dell said it would continue to sell Ubuntu powered PCs over the phone.

A spokesperson for Dell commented: “We’ve recently made an effort to simplify our offerings online, by focusing on our most popular bundles and configuration options, based on customer feedback for reduced complexity and a simple, easy purchase experience.”

“We’re also making some changes to our Ubuntu pages, and as a result, they are currently available through our phone-based sales only.”

Which seems to suggest that Ubuntu will be returning to Dell’s online store on home computers, although exactly when – or indeed if they will – the company wouldn’t be drawn on.

On the whole, it’s definitely not positive news for Linux enthusiasts.