http://www.desktoplinux.com/news/NS8192503123.html

Xandros on Thursday launched what it claims is the first Linux distribution with third-generation wireless support, at CeBIT in Hannover, Germany. Xandros Desktop OS 3.1 Deutsche Version Business Edition supports the high-speed universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) and authentication against Windows Primary Domain Controllers (PDC) and Active Directory servers, according to the company.

"Third-generation mobile communications is taking off in Germany, and many of our customers have access to the service," said Andreas Typaldos, Xandros CEO. "Keeping up with the changing trends and increasing demands, we are pleased to announce UMTS support as a Xandros 'first.'"

A Xandros spokeswoman said that no English or other language version of the new desktop is planned at this time. Xandros wants to test the market in Europe -- which is far ahead of the US in using 3G technology -- first before deciding when the time is right to release subsequent versions, she said

Key features of the German Business edition, according to Xandros, include:

* High-speed Internet access anywhere, anytime through third-generation mobile UMTS support
* Runs Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and many other Windows programs
* StarOffice support for MS Office and new OpenDoc formats
* Drag-and-drop DVD burning
* Seamless file and print sharing on Windows networks
* FireFox web browsing

The new desktop include built-in Xandros Anti-Virus, the Xandros Firewall Wizard, encrypted home folders, and secure access to virtual private networks, Xandros said.

Xandros Desktop OS 3.1 Deutsche Version Business Edition comes enabled for mass deployment by the all-graphical xDMS, Xandros' Deployment and Management Server. Its graphical xDMS environment enables administrators to easily deploy thousands of Linux desktops, the company said. Administrators then can add, update, and remove applications, schedule maintenance, monitor jobs, and perform many other tasks using powerful remote management tools, it added.

Xandros to announce new desktop Linux products in April

The Xandros spokeswoman also said the company is planning to announce an entirely new line of desktop Linux products designed for both home and business use. The announcement will be made at LinuxWorld Conference and Expo in Boston next month, she said.