Another Linux Distro: Linare

[mike808@users.sourceforge.net]

Anyone else know anything about them?

Distro Name: Linare
Homepage: http://www.linare.com/

Linare Linux is a Linux-based core operating system designed for the 
desktop platform, used in personal and business computing.

Our system provides everything needed in a typical office environment, 
including word processing, spreadsheet, drawing, games and presentation 
programs. Linare Desktop software is available for just US$19.95. Plus 
Linare offers live, 24-hour, customer support, so our customers can make 
an easy transition.
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And from http://www.linare.com/about.php

Linare also offers its Desktop OS Software Linare Linux. This user 
friendly, reliable and virus free  operating system is available for 
just $19.95. Features of Linare Linux include a full office suite 
compatible with Windows Microsoft Office, which includes word 
processing, spreadsheet, drawing and presentation software. It also 
comes with a full Internet suite, bundled with a GAIM messenger that can 
be used with Yahoo, MSN, AOL and ICQ protocols. Linare Linux includes 
Mozilla mail software, the increasingly popular Outlook-styled email 
program, and the Mozilla Internet Browser.

The software also comes with several popular add-ons for playing digital 
audio, sending instant messages, burning CDs, videoconferencing, and 
synchronizing data filed on handheld computers. Multimedia support 
includes Real Player, provided by the global leader in digital media.

Besides focusing on superior-quality products and the Linux community, 
Linare also maintains a reputation for top-of-the-line customer service. 
Those who purchase our products have access to Linare's 24-hour, 
seven-day-a-week technical and installation support. We go out of our 
way to help you; we know that your happiness is our business!

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Commentary:
This appears to be the OS shipped with Linare's PCs sold through 
walmart.com.

http://linare.zoovy.com/product/00012345679

I know nothing about the distro other than that. It appears to have no 
proprietary software in the distribution, and the cost is $19.95 USD.

They offer a 5-year "Assurance" program for $50. The benefit?

"Future product versions will be available at no additional cost for 
five years period from the date of purchase. Product packaging and 
shipping cost will be charged accordingly."

That's bold, but allowed by the GPL. Charging for GPL software,
and then charging for vaporware future versions of GPL software.

That said, it appears that the product exists only to be "included" with 
the $200 USD desktop PC they sell through Wal-Mart.com. I doubt that 
this is a compelling featureful distro.

If someone does locate a copy, it would be interesting to see what it's 
based on or if it is homegrown.

Mike/

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