Canonical is hoping to crowdsource its first smartphone, the Ubuntu Edge, with a $32,000,000 goal on Indiegogo.
The Edge will dual boot the Ubuntu phone OS and Android, and will be able to run the Ubuntu desktop OS directly from the phone. The desktop OS and applications are integrated with the smartphone OS, so users can switch between the mobile and desktop OS without file-syncing or transfers.
As far as Android is concerned, Ubuntu desktop can open from within Android using the Ubuntu for Android app. After launch, an update will be added to Ubuntu mobile for desktop integration.
The Edge has a 4.5in 1,280 x 720 HD sapphire crystal display, and will be shipped with a quad-core CPU, 4GB of RAM and 128GB of Storage. It also features an 8MP rear camera and 2MP front camera, along with stereo speakers with HD audio.
HTML5Â apps written for other platforms can easily be brought over to Ubuntu, and QML toolkit is available for richer applications. Developers can also use Ubuntu SDK “to write and upload a single native application that has desktop, tablet and phone interfaces.”
Additional specifications include:
- MHL connector, 3.5mm jack
- Silicon-anode Li-Ion battery
- Dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4, NFC
- GPS, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, barometer
The Ubuntu Edge is expected to launch in May with a starting price of $830, but early contributors can grab one for $600. To contribute to the project, check out the Canonical Indiegogo page.
Source: Indiegogo
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EtNhlVn3ETQ?feature=player_detailpage&w=600&h=320]
