Ubuntu Edge: Smartphone And Desktop PC In One State-Of-The-Art Device

The fine line between full-featured smartphone and powerful computer has been blurred with news that Canonical is developing a pocket-sized dual OS superphone that runs both Android and Ubuntu. When running Ubuntu mobile, users of the new Ubuntu Edge will be able to launch apps and access settings by swiping the edge of the display. Cabling the phone to a monitor and pairing it with a wireless keyboard and mouse allows power users to launch a full version of the Ubuntu desktop computing platform, with seamless transition between environments.

In Ubuntu Edge, navigation is undertaken using screen edge swipes

Canonical has been working on combining an Androd smartphone and the Ubuntu desktop since early 2012. This idea of a hybrid smartphone/PC has been in the works for months.

Jono Bacon, Ubuntu's community manager described the Ubuntu Edge as a device that will "dual boot Ubuntu and Android, and will transform into a PC when docked with a monitor—with the full Ubuntu desktop and shared access to all the phone’s files. For this it needs the power of a PC, so Ubuntu Edge will be equipped with the latest, fastest processor, at least 4GB of RAM and a massive 128GB of (SSD) storage."

The Ubuntu Edge is being developed as an open device, so won't be tied to any particular network. The phone is designed to work in any country that provides GSM/3G/LTE-based network services, and will pack dual LTE antennas for super-fast surfing wherever in the world you might find yourself.

SPECS:

sapphire crystal display is used in Ubuntu Edge

Dual-boot Ubuntu Edge into either Ubuntu or Android
A fully integrated Ubuntu desktop PC when docked
Fast and powerful device with multi-core CPU and at least 4GB RAM
128GB of Solid State Device (SSD) storage for photos, music, content
A 4.5-inch 1,280 x 720 HD display with a pure sapphire crystal screen, the hardest natural substance after the diamond
Cameras made for low-light, fast response and close up pictures: 8mp rear camera, 2mp front
Faster connections all over the world with dual-LTE, dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4, Near Field Communication (NFC)
Connect to HDMI TVs and monitors easily with MHL connector, 3.5mm jack
GPS, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, barometer
Stereo speakers with HD audio, dual-mic recording, Active Noise Cancellation
Silicon-anode Li-Ion battery
124 x 64 x 9 mm (4.9 x 2.5 x 0.35 in) size
USB on-the-go support via an 11-pin connector.

Canonical said: "Upon completion, the Ubuntu Edge will be the realisation of Canonical’s distinctive vision for a single operating system driving phones, tablets, conventional computers and TVs."

The Ubuntu Edge project has already gone from concept sketches through to test handsets, and is currently at the pre-production prototype stage. It's not intended to make a break for commercial release, but rather be manufactured as a strictly limited edition enthusiast device. As such, the Canonical has opted to take the crowdfunding route to turn the idea into reality.

Ubuntu Edge will include a 4.5-inch HD display panel, a multi-core processor, 128 GB of storage and an 8 MP camera to the rear

Ubuntu Edge features GPS, accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, barometer

A rather lofty funding goal of US$30 million has been set, but as Indiegogo backers have already stumped up nearly $7 million in just a few days, we'll wager that this one's ripe for success. All of the early bird levels have gone, so backers will need to pledge at least $775 to secure a Ubuntu Edge. Canonical expects delivery to take place in May 2014.

Future Trends

Ubuntu Edge: Smartphone And Desktop PC In One State-Of-The-Art Device