Dell: Linux Not Cutting It on Desktops

Dell Computer has decided to stop shipping its desktop and notebook PCs with Linux preinstalled, citing weak demand and slow adoption. The open source OS was largely introduced into the mainstream PC market last year, following efforts of Linux advocates to build support on the desktop. Vendors such as Dell and IBM quickly embraced the OS, but now acknowledge that move may have been premature.

Dwindling financials have led many open source companies to slow and even cease development of applications Linux needs to compete with Windows. This in turn has caused a huge problem for PC manufacturers, who sell their computers pre-loaded with software. Dell claims, however, that it will watch the Linux community and when the time is right, consider going back to it.

Dell will continue to offer Red Hat Linux as an option for servers and corporate workstations, where business remains high. Windows Me is currently available for home users, with an upgrade coupon for the upcoming Windows XP.