Dell caves in to Linux lovers, offers Feisty PCs

Dell is trying a second time to sell personal computers with Linux preinstalled, this time using the up-and-coming Ubuntu version of the open source OS.

At the end of May, the number two PC maker will begin selling some consumer-focused laptop and desktop models with Ubuntu's new 'Feisty Fawn' version of Linux installed, according to a Dell spokesman. It plans to broadcast the Linux move on its IdeaStorm website, which launched in February to gather feedback directly from customers about what they want.

When buying the Dell systems, customers will have the option to purchase support from Ubuntu backer Canonical, said Jane Silber, the start-up's director of operations.

Dell, suffering market share losses to top PC seller HP, is trying reinvigorate its direct ties with customers, an approach that has long been the company's hallmark. Linux-based PCs was an "overwhelming" request from the IdeaStorm site, said the Dell spokesman.

He added: "We heard loud and clear from customers that they wanted this." And of those who wanted Linux, "80 per cent came back and said Ubuntu", he said.

Dell began selling Linux PCs in 1999 and added laptops in 2000. But in 2001, Dell reversed course, cancelling the Linux PCs because of insufficient demand. Today, Dell certifies Red Hat or SuSe Linux for use on some business-oriented PCs but, except when larger customers place custom orders, customers must install the operating system themselves.

This time, things are different, said the spokesman. "We think great strides have been made since 2001," he said. "Linux has evolved to a point where there is something available for consumers," though Linux PCs will appeal mostly to a Linux enthusiast market that's more limited than that for Windows Vista.

And Dell validated the Linux request through its own research, according to the spokesman: "There definitely are those who are Linux zealots but we did some checking as well."

IDC analyst Al Gillen, who still doesn't see a major Linux draw for most Windows PC users, said: "I don't think this is going to be a knock-the-ball-out-of-the-park home run." But, he added, the move is notable for the fact it's Dell making it: "Dell typically doesn't do stuff if they don't think they're going to get enough volume to justify it."

Stephen Shankland writes for CNET News.com