Dell listens to customers - Linux systems and no preinstalled software option

Dell has listened to the ideas that came in through the Dell IdeaStorm project and has published some of its plans. This includes systems with Linux pre-installed, a "no extra software" option and more "carbon neutral" systems.

Pre-installed Linux on Dell PCs
One of the hottest ideas on Dell IdeaStorm was the inclusion of pre-installed Linux and OpenOffice. Dell says they have seen a consistent request to provide platforms that allow people to install their operating system of choice. They are listening, and as a result, they are working with Novell to certify their corporate client products for Linux, including our OptiPlex desktops, Latitude notebooks and Dell Precision workstations.

As this community knows, there is no single customer preference for a distribution of Linux. In the last week, the IdeaStorm community suggested more than half a dozen distributions. We don't want to pick one distribution and alienate users with a preference for another. We want users to have the opportunity to help define the market for Linux on desktop and notebook systems. In addition to working with Novell, we are also working with other distributors and evaluating the possibility of additional certifications across our product line. We are continuing to investigate your other Linux-related ideas, so please continue to check here for updates.

Dell computers with no extra software
Another popular suggestion was to start offering a "no extra software" option. Currently Dell XPS customers already have this option to opt-out of almost all preinstalled software and Dell says they will expand this effort in the coming months. In addition to focusing on the software installation process, Dell has also taken steps to make it easier for customers to remove software once they receive their PC. Today, customers can kick-off an un-install of almost any application by declining the EULA (End User Licensing Agreement) associated with software.

Carbon Neutral
Another suggestion Dell has listened to is the call to make the Plant a Tree for Me program available to a much wider audience:

the program enables customers to contribute to a tree planting program to offset the carbon associated with the production of electricity to run their system. Some early work you might be aware of includes our efforts to make our products as energy-efficient as possible, which can help cut emissions associated with power generation -