Xandros Announces Desktop 2.0 Linux Operating System

Market Wire, 20050229

Xandros, Inc., the leading developer of innovative Linux solutions for the desktop market, today announced the release of the Xandros Desktop 2.0. With a strong user focus, Xandros Desktop 2.0 offers an intuitive, elegant, graphical environment that's easy to use, and installs with 4 clicks of a mouse. Based on Debian Linux 4.0 and a Xandros-enhanced KDE 3.1.4, Xandros Desktop 2.0 provides seamless compatibility with Microsoft Windows programs, including MS office and MS networks. Linux-based, Xandros Desktop assures stability and security, along with the freedom that an open environment provides.

"Let's face it, most users are fed up with viruses, worms and the installation of patches. For the first time there is a real alternative, a new desktop for the masses. You work with Xandros just like the 'other' desktop, only better," commented Andy Typaldos, CEO of Xandros Inc. "Whether you're at home, school, or at work you'll find that Xandros Desktop OS is just what you need to share files, write a report, surf the Internet, listen to music, play games, or do almost anything else. Xandros 2.0 has unmatched compatibility with Windows. Even PC users, who never heard of Linux before, can easily install and use this desktop. It is simple, secure and invites users to migrate from Windows to Linux in a heartbeat."

Key features include a four-click install with automatic disk partitioning and drag-and-drop CD burning within Xandros File Manager. Users of the Deluxe Edition also have the option to run Microsoft Office and other key Windows programs. Both Standard and Deluxe editions seamlessly share files and resources on Windows networks and offer single-click access to a huge inventory of free Linux software.

Xandros Desktop 2.0 offers speedy, stable, standards-compliant browsing with the ability to surf multiple web sites in one tabbed window. The easy-to-use mail reader comes with automatic spam filtering and the ability to turn off annoying pop-up ads and banners. The versatile instant messenger lets users chat with others on MSN, Yahoo, AOL, ICQ, and IRC. The weather, news, and dictionary definition lookup can be added to the user's desktop panel.

The full-featured OpenOffice.org 1.1 suite handles Microsoft Office documents, spreadsheets and presentations. The word processor comes with a full set of tools including a spell-checker, thesaurus, auto correct, document review. The spreadsheet program is compatible with Microsoft Excel. The Publisher-compatible presentations program can export dynamic web shows to Macromedia Flash. The Deluxe edition of this sleek desktop solution also allows running Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and Macromedia Dreamweaver and other key Windows programs.

The built-in Xandros Disc Burner let users write music or data CDs directly from Xandros File Manager. It's simple to copy CD's, perform drag-and-drop backups, or convert audio CD tracks to WAV, Ogg, or MP3s. Xandros Desktop 2.0 easily connects to hundreds of digital cameras and records sounds from any microphone or stereo. The ability to play MPEG movies, Macromedia Flash movies and streaming video, streaming audio, MP3, WAV, MIDI and other audio files completes this multimedia extravaganza.

In Stores December 9th

Xandros Desktop 2.0 will be available directly from Xandros online December 9th at www.xandros.com, as well as from software retailers. The recommended retail price for the Standard Edition, including 30 days of e-mail support, is USD $39.00.

The Deluxe Edition of Xandros Desktop OS carries a suggested retail price of USD $89.00. It includes a special Xandros version of CrossOver Office 2.1 that allows users to run Microsoft Office and other key Windows software, and CrossOver Plugin to expand their Linux web browsing experience. It also provides the ability to allocate install space from a Windows XP (NTFS) partition, a 350-page user guide (boxed version only), a second disc with bonus applications, games, and tools, and 60 days of e-mail support.

Current registered users of the Standard Edition of Xandros Desktop OS 1.x can upgrade to the 2.0 Standard Edition for USD $ 24.99 or to the 2.0 Deluxe Edition for USD $69.00. Current registered users of the Deluxe Edition of Xandros Desktop OS 1.x can upgrade to the 2.0 Standard Edition for USD $ 24.99 or to the 2.0 Deluxe Edition for USD $45.00.

A 30-day trial version of the Standard Edition of Xandros Desktop 2.0 will be available for download at www.xandros.com. The retail Standard and Deluxe editions are also available for download.

About Xandros

Founded in 2001 with headquarters in New York and research and development facilities in Ottawa, Xandros, Inc. is the leading developer of easy-to-use desktop Linux solutions targeting home and enterprise markets. Xandros Desktop OS is a low-cost alternative operating system that is simple to install and use. It also provides seamless compatibility with Microsoft Windows programs and networks. For more information please visit www.xandros.com.