Canonical causes a ruckus by asking which new apps users want on Ubuntu

[A Guy]

To say Ubuntu has a dedicated fanbase is probably a bit of an understatement. As the most widely-recognized Linux distribution, Ubuntu has helped push Linux beyond the fringe of desktop computer use.

But because it's Linux -- and because Linux and open source are intertwined so tightly in the minds of many -- things get a little dicey when there's mention of closed source software being packaged with Ubuntu by default.

Take the recent survey they posted. It's a reasonable enough request - which apps would you like to see in Ubuntu which currently aren't available? Where the trouble arises is with the selections listed in the survey, apparently: Photoshop, iTunes, Skype, Hulu.

Oh god, no! What the hell are they thinking?!

I'll tell you what. They're thinking that Ubuntu needs those apps in order to appeal to a much broader group of people. Windows still owns the desktop computer market, and the lack of recognizable apps like iTunes keeps many people from even considering Linux as an alternative.

It's the truth, whether the Ubuntu community wants to admit it or not. I've tried to extol the virtues of Linux to plenty of retail customers and more than one has replied "can I run iTunes on it?" When I say no, their interest disappears completely.

Bringing apps like those mentioned would be a bold move by Canonical, but one that would indeed pay off in the long run.

http://www.downloadsquad.com/2010/01/17/canonical-causes-a-ruckus-by-asking-which-new-apps-users-want-on/

A Guy

[hellnoire]

The only one I'll complain about is WoW because it's a waste lol.

[shan]

y is that ??? i think its a wonderful idea because many people i know would totally go for ubuntu if it had things like windows

[kv777]

great to hear that (although i don't use skype,itunes or photoshop) it gives an confidence to new users when they know that there are certain applications they are familiar with can be run on Ubuntu

[LunarWolf]

If Linux (ubuntu) can run every program like Windows can run, I will gladly welcome ubuntu with open arms.

[shan]

although ubuntu doesnt have a photoshpo software it has gimp which cames close and alternative to itunes and skype is readly avialable

[brayden]

shan, GIMP is not really that comparable. I've tried to do many things that i could do in photoshop but in GIMP it wouldnt' happen. Just simply wouldn't happen. that's all.. and hellnoire, I think WINE Is able to run WoW pretty well though i haven't checked appdb in ages.

[sm1]

What I really want in linux is fully functional MS Office, Divx, IE, WMP, PowerDVD running without any wine or crossover support. But MS won't be interested.

[kv777]

What I really want in linux is fully functional MS Office, Divx, IE, WMP, PowerDVD running without any wine or crossover support. But MS won't be interested.

you want microsoft products run on linux.there are very good alternatives for all the apps you mentioned.GIZMO has some cross platform apps check it Here.

[sm1]

Thanks for the link. But still I will be missing windows apps as I have been using it for a long time particularly MS Office.