Ubuntu software store - main screen

The team of programmers are now preparing a new software manager called Ubuntu Software Store, which adds some interesting features:

• Even better usability;
• Improved sorting software to multiple levels of categories;
• More information about programs (link to homepage, screen-shots, users ratings and comments);
• Sale of commercial software;
• And many more.

Yes, Ubuntu Software was inspired by the iTunes Store, Android Market, etc. I think it’s a good idea. Over 8 million users, Ubuntu is already an interesting target group for the commerce software maker and Ubuntu Software Store could be a great distribution and sales channel.

Ubuntu software store - detail of app

In the discussions you will find many people who are against: “Closed software in Linux distributions? No!”. But I think it’s a great way. I like open source OS. I can customize anything without fear of the license etc. With the programs it is different. Why do you not purchase high-quality graphics editor, if you need something better than the Gimp?

The reason why Linux on the desktop still takes only about 3% of desktop users is:

1. great demands on the user’s knowledge,
2. lack of commercial software for particular tasks,
3. small number of games.

Thanks Ubuntu, paragraph 1 is no longer true. Really there is nothing to worry about. Then next time I will write articles about why and how to switch to Ubuntu. Point 2 and 3 could support the project just Ubuntu Software Store. Certainly, this is the way for more years. It’s a chance for the future of Linux on the desktop.