HP has revealed it won't be launching a Linux version of its Mini 1000 netbook in the UK.
HP told ZDNet that it will not offer the Linux version of the new HP Mini 1000 in "quite a few of the European markets", including the UK.
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If fact, UK consumers that want to get their hands on HP's rival to the Eee PC, which was launched in October last year, have only one model to choose from at the moment - a red and pink floral design created by Vivienne Tam and priced at £399. A plain black version is expected to be released in February. Both run Windows XP.
The Vivenne Tam version of the HP Mini 1000 is currently the only model available in the UK
The HP Mini 1000 is a 10.2in laptop weighing 1.1kg and with a depth of 25.2mm. Powered by an Intel Atom N270 processor, it comes with either 8GB or 16GB of onboard SSD (solid state disk) storage. Connectivity includes wireless LAN and Bluetooth and users also benefit from a webcam and built-in microphone for video chat.
HP said it had "assessed the current EMEA market and believes that the Compaq 700 and HP Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition better address the market and consumer needs".
See also: HP Mini 2133 netbook ditches Via processor
Comments
Frederic Baille, CEO Linutop said: Linutop strongly believe in giving users the maximum freedom of choice and flexibility An open source operating system is the ideal platform that allows users to get most of their devices Additionally open source allows running systems more cost-effective because users do not have to pay for an operating systems and applications from the established vendors We are convinced that open source operating systems will become even more popular amongst many professional and semi-professional users in the future Even in the area of consumer technology there is strong opportunity for open source It will be very interesting to see how the market reacts on the Google mobile phone with its open source operating system and what effect this might have on the established systems like SymbianBusinesses are under incredible pressure to become more flexible and reduce costs at the same time This will drive demand for more developer friendly and cost efficient systems