Russian Post migrates to Linux for losses, Apr 25, 2008

The Russian Post has started testing the free software to be used in ordinary post offices. Cutting costs for software is one of the main reasons to migrate to Linux. No details are reported. However, according to some sources, the Russian Post might prefer Red Hat.

Linux Ubuntu installation on PCs sold by Excimer and NT Computer is to be launched within the nearest month. Consequently, Ubuntu sales in Russia might reach 300 thousand units. Ubuntu 8.04 released on April 24, 2008 is more likely to be preinstalled.

“Software distributives, developed on the basis of Linux and tested within 2007-2008 might actually be installed in schools by 2009 end”

An experiment is underway in a number of St. Petersburg schools to install Linux OS in computer rooms with by September 1st. However, it is not clear so far who will be funding the program. A number of computers with Linux OS already appeared in Alexander Ponosov’s school.

Analysts say the Russian open software market is to grow 4-fold and reach $200mln by 2010. Server software will account for the largest sales volume in the segment. The development prospects of Linux client platform are not high in Russia and mostly depend on the government policy.

The HP company might start the production of PCs with preinstalled Linux system. However, the vendor's global initiative is not yet relevant in Russia. HP's Russian office said there is not much demand for open source OS in this country.