Most of the “early” netbooks/UMPCs include interfaces that are – quite frankly – bad. They are either the same interfaces that were designed for standard screens, just smaller, or locked-down highly simple interfaces with limited functionality. The trend now is definitely towards something different, but what is “something?”

The Ubuntu Netbook Remix takes one approach – an almost completely new interface. This means the interface is designed completely for small screens, making it seem ideal for a UMPC. This might seem to be the only option, but there is another.

The other option is to take the existing interface and make small modifications to it so that it is more suited to UMPCs. An OSNews article shows that with only very simple modifcations, a standard GNOME interface can work well on a very small screen. The advantage of this approach is that it is potentially more familiar to a non-techie who does not care to learn a new interface. On the other hand, it is unlikely that the modified interface will be as good as a completely new one, since it is based on the old ideas.

In the end, it will probably come down to personal choice. Those who want the best interface and don’t mind learning something new will choose the completely new one, while those who just want to get going with their UMPC will choose the modified old interface. Perhaps some middle-ground that combines the two could be reached?

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