Ubuntu MATE, the newest member of the Ubuntu family has signed a hardware deal with LibreTrend, meaning that there will be new computers which will ship with Ubuntu MATE as the default operating system.
As the name suggests, LibreTrend respects the open-source philosophy and incorporates only FOSS software.
“Ubuntu MATE is an official flavour of Ubuntu focussed on usability and stability, which has gained massive traction in the Linux community over recent months. Inspired by the traditional GNOME 2 interface of classic Ubuntu releases, Ubuntu MATE is the perfect distribution for easing the transition between Microsoft Windows or Mac OS and Linux. LibreTrend are the designer and manufacturer of the LibreBox, a computer geared towards providing a complete ‘out of the box’ Linux experience, with a heavy focus on hardware compatibility. All the hardware in the LibreBox is Free Software friendly and %100 supported by ‘blobless’ Linux drivers,”
The LibreBox Mini PC has an Intel 1037U 1.8 GHz Dual Core CPU, 4 GB DDR3 RAM, a a 500GB HDD, 4 USB 2.0 ports, 1 HDMI port, 1x VGA, 1x Ethernet (RJ45), 1x Microphone Input, and 1x Headphone Jack and is priced at €349 ($387).
Somehow unrelated, but still worth mentioning:
To show its support for FOSS, Ubuntu MATE created a habit of donating money to open-source projects each month. From June’s funds, Ubuntu MATE has supported Geary and Transmission.