Canonical is developing a lightweight version of its popular distribution Linux, Ubuntu, for tablets that could be implemented in commercial devices since 2011. So far, this operating system was available only in versions for servers, PCs and laptops.

The Ubuntu for tablets will be a lighter version of Linux from Canonical, Which also added to the platform a interfaz simplified user and support for multitouch screens.

So far, Canonical now has the support of some chip makers, including free scale, Texas Instruments and Marvell, Companies that make ARM processors for mobile handsets. The first prototype tablets Ubuntu might be available before the end of this year, according to spokesmen for Canonical.

With its new proposal for a lightweight Ubuntu, Canonical will compete in the segment operating systems for tablets and other mobile devices with an increasing variety of alternatives, already included Android (Google) Meego (Intel and Nokia), iPhone OS (Apple) or Windows Mobile (Microsoft).