OSCON: Canonical Set to Expand Online Software Store
As part of a forthcoming Ubuntu Server push, Canonical is preparing to expand its online software store to include a range of third-party applications, Works With U has learned. Much of the Ubuntu Server strategy will be announced at LinuxWorld Expo in San Francisco this August.
Canonical’s software store currently offers a handful of applications. But the company is exploring ways to expand the store’s application portfolio, according to Gerry Carr, a marketing manager at Canonical. I spoke with Carr about the strategy here at OSCON (Open Source Conference) in Portland, Oregon.
By expanding the software store, Canonical could stir interest in Ubuntu server, creating customer pull that also attracts more partners (VARs, integrators and more ISVs) into the Ubuntu server ecosystem.
Still, online software stores can be mixed blessings. For Apple, an online software store has become the killer application tied to the iPhone 3G launch. But for Red Hat, an online software store — known as Red Hat Exchange — has delivered mixed results since launching roughly a year ago.
It’s unclear which third-party applications Canonical will offer via its online store. Alfresco, Openbravo and Zimbra are expected to endorse Ubuntu Server at LinuxWorld Expo in August. But I’m not sure if that means those vendors will offer up their applications in Canonical’s store.
