Would you crowdfund a $500 Ubuntu "open to the core" laptop?
UPDATE - I've removed the silly US restriction. I know there are more options in Europe, China, India, etc, but why shouldn't you get access to the "open to the core" laptop! This would definitely come with at least 3 USB ports (and at least one USB 3.0 port).
Since Jolla had success with crowdfunding a tablet, it's a good time to see if we can get some mid-range Ubuntu laptops for sale to consumers in as many places as possible. I'd like to get some ideas about whether there is enough demand for a very open $500 Ubuntu laptop.
Would you crowdfund this? (Core Goals)
- 15" 1080p Matte Screen
- 720p Webcam with microphone
- Spill-resistant and nice to type on keyboard
- Intel i3+ or AMD A6+
- Built-in Intel or AMD graphics with no proprietary firmware
- 4 GB Ram
- 128 GB SSD (this would be the one component that might have to be proprietary as I'm not aware of another option)
- Ethernet 10/100/1000
- Wireless up to N
- HDMI
- SD card reader
- CoreBoot (No proprietary BIOS)
- Ubuntu 14.04 preloaded of course
- Agreement with manufacturer to continue selling this laptop (or similar one) with Ubuntu preloaded to consumers for at least 3 years.
Stretch Goals? Or should they be core goals?
Will only be added if they don't push the cost up significantly (or if everyone really wants them) and can be done with 100% open source software/firmware.
- Touchscreen
- Convertible to Tablet
- GPS
- FM Tuner (and built-in antenna)
- Digital TV Tuner (and built-in antenna)
- Ruggedized
- Direct sunlight readable screen
- "Frontlight" tech. (think Amazon PaperWhite)
- Bluetooth
- Backlit keyboard
- USB Power Adapter
Take my quick survey if you want to see this happen. If at least 1000 people say "Yes," I'll approach manufacturers. The first version might just end up being a Chromebook modified with better specs, but I think that would be fine.
Survey Closed.