Canonical is showing off their new Ubuntu Mobile, a version of Ubuntu designed for UMPCs. The first stable release is expected at the same time as Hardy Heron and I could not make the beta work, so I have not tried it out, but from the information on the Ubuntu website, I think this has a good chance of being the iPhone of UMPC operating systems. (In a good way, I mean. iPhone minus being completely locked down and closed-source.)

What I mean by that is that Ubuntu Mobile has what looks like a very pretty, impressive, and intuitive interface, similar to the iPhone. Additionally, another goal is to make Ubuntu Mobile customizable so each OEM can put their own interface on it if they want to suit the goals of their particular device. (More info.) As a demonstration of how this slick interface might help Ubuntu Mobile and the UMPCs that use it out, imagine this: A non-tech savvy user walks into a store and ends up looking at the UMPCs. Assuming all the hardware is the same, the customer will see three choices. First he will see an Eee PC-like interface. It works, but it is not the prettiest thing ever. Than he sees a Vista desktop compressed onto a small screen. It looks familiar, but not particularly easy to use on such a small device. Finally he sees Ubuntu Mobile. It looks slick and easy to use. In other words, faced against an Eee PC-like interface and Vista, Ubuntu Mobile is the clear winner in looks and apparent ease of use.

Of course, that assumes that all the hardware is the same, so I guess we need some prettier Linux UMPC hardware… (Image)

Below are some screenshots from the Ubuntu website: