Mandriva, the global Linux distributor, strengthens Intel’s
contribution to education by actively participating in Intel’s
Classmate PC project. Several technology companies joined forces to
produce Classmate PC, a portable computer for students in
developing countries.
Mandriva and Intel spent eight months customizing the Mandriva
Linux operating system for Classmate PC, including integrating
drivers and adapting applications specially developed for this
project. Classmate PC will be produced in Brazil and launched in
the second quarter of 2007. Following the launch, Classmate PCs
running Mandriva Linux 2007 will be available to Mexico, India and
developing countries. Mandriva Linux is deployed in more than 140
countries around the world and supports over 75 languages.
Classmate PC weighs 2.9 lbs and includes a Celeron-M 900Mhz CPU,
256MB RAM, up to 2GB of flash memory, two USB ports, a seven inch
LCD display, wireless network, and a waterproof keyboard. Mandriva
Linux 2007 includes Internet, office and multimedia applications,
as well as Intel drivers designed to improve the educational
process within classrooms and at home.
“Classmate PC reinforces Mandriva’s commitment, along with our
partner Intel, to the development of technologies,” explains Paul
Guillet, Mandriva Brazil Country Manager. “We didn’t have to think
twice about participating in an initiative that improves
educational options for Brazilian children through the use of
technology,” he concluded.
From now through the end of March 2007, approximately 800
Classmate PCs have been distributed to public schools, selected by
the Brazilian government, for initial tests. The commercial launch
of Classmate PC begins in the second quarter of 2007.