“Epitera is carving out a brand new niche in the Linux
marketplace-mainstream consumer and corporate PC users. The
Israel-based company today announced the launch of a new,
easy-to-use Linux desktop environment targeted at the PC and
Internet appliance user. The announcement was made at COMDEX 2000
in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.”
“The new desktop environment will include a complete set of
pre-installed applications, and it features automatic application
downloads and updates as well as remote-access customer support.
The most visible example of the desktop’s user-friendly approach is
a highly intelligent assistant-a genie named Kandu-that the company
says will provide the user with more intuitive and proactive
support than the assistant found on other operating
systems.”
“Let’s face it, no one has yet come up with a way for the
average consumer to use Linux,” said Yoram Salinger, CEO of
Epitera. “Linux is solidly established in the Internet server
market, but unless you’re a system administrator or hacker, you
probably don’t use Linux. We’re going to change all that.”
“The fully animated and entertaining Kandu character oversees a
three-level help and support system for end users. First, he uses
everyday language (natural language processing – NLP) to
communicate with the user – and even recommends specific solutions
should a problem occur. Second, additional assistance is provided
by the Epitera software manager, which can automatically download
and install necessary applications. Third, a customer support
center can access a user’s computer remotely to assist with
difficulties.”