Dell scraps online sales of Ubuntu PC and laptops

Dell has pulled PCs preloaded with the open-source Ubuntu operating system (OS) from its online store in the UK.

Only one product, the Dell Latitude 2100 laptop, is currently advertised in Dell's business range as available with Ubuntu.

The PC maker reportedly said late last week that it had removed most of the consumer Ubuntu PCs from its site.

Dell confirmed the move in a statement, saying that the company is simplifying its online offerings "based on customer feedback for reduced complexity and a simple, easy purchase experience".

"As the Ubuntu systems are primarily targeted towards advanced users and enthusiasts, and the vast majority of consumers purchase PCs with Microsoft Windows pre-installed, they are currently available only through phone-based sales," the firm said.

However, Dell said that this was not a permanent move.

"Dell are making some changes to the Ubuntu pages which means that they are only available via phone-based sales today," the firm said in a separate statement sent to V3.co.uk. "The team is re-working the Ubuntu pages, so the bundles have been taken down now, but they may be up again soon. At this point, we don’t know when this will be."

Dell confirmed that Ubuntu is still available pre-loaded onto laptops and desktops from its Inspiron, Vostro and Studio lines, as well as the Inspiron Mini 10 and 10HD netbooks.

"Dell has offered select consumer systems with Ubuntu preinstalled for more than two years, and are continuing to do so," added the statement.

The vendor has yet to say whether it will offer business customers an alternative way of ordering the Ubuntu-based ranges online.

Dell has been contacted as to whether it will continue to sell Ubuntu-installed PCs in Australia.