xbiz world
xbiz premiere

Linux PCs Available From Wal-Mart Online

Sun Microsystems' Java Desktop System is now available on a line of basic, bargain-priced home computers exclusively through Wal-Mart's online store; and currently not offered through any of the company's retail outlets. Starting at only $288, the Microtel PCs are the first offering of the alternative operating system targeted towards consumers rather than the business, governmental, or educational markets. While most of the mainstream vendors have shied away from offering Linux-based systems to consumers, Wal-Mart has marketed this type of personal computer through its Website since 2002, when the Lindows equipped Microtel appeared with breakthrough prices as low as $199. While Windows-based systems overwhelmingly dominate the personal computer market, consumer demand is building for more secure and cost-effective solutions to their "real world" needs – something that this new offering seems to address. A basic entry-level setup currently sells for $288 and is powered by a 1.2-gigahertz AMD Duron processor. This system includes 128 MB memory, a 40 GB hard drive, CD-ROM drive, an Integrated 10/100 Ethernet connection, a 56 Kbps modem, a keyboard, stereo speakers and the LindowsOS 4.0 operating system – but no monitor. According to Wal-Mart's Website, the system is designed for Web browsing including pop-up ad blocking, sending and receiving e-mail, contact management including an address book, instant messaging, playing audio CDs and MP3 files, networking printers and PCs, including Windows-based models, and suitable for playing a variety of games – in short, the typical needs of many home users – or of current PC users looking for an additional machine. Whether more widespread offerings of these types of systems and software are made will depend on the public's adoption of these initial forays into "non-MScentric" personal computing; and peripheral vendor's abilities to support the needs of this growing community of users.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Elly Clutch, Girthmasterr to Host 2026 XMA Creator Awards

XBIZ is pleased to announce Elly Clutch and Girthmasterr as co-hosts of the 2026 XMA Creator Awards, presented by premium creator platform Fansly.

FSC: TAKE IT DOWN Act Provisions Take Effect May 19

The Free Speech Coalition has issued a reminder notice that the notice-and-removal requirements of the federal TAKE IT DOWN Act will go into effect on May 19.

Venus Berlin Joins ASACP as Media Sponsor

Venus Berlin has signed on as an in-kind media sponsor for the Association of Sites Advocating Child Protection (ASACP).

XBIZ Miami's Host Hotel Sold Out; Additional Hotel Added

Guest rooms at XBIZ Miami’s exclusive conference venue, Goodtime Hotel in South Beach, are now completely sold out.

Penthouse Wins Trademark Infringement Case Against Fraudulent Domain

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has ruled in favor of Penthouse World Media in a case against a website using an infringing domain.

'Collective Corruption' Relaunches Through PAYSITE

Fetish and BDSM membership site Collective Corruption has relaunched through PAYSITE.

RocketGate Taps Joël Drapeau for Senior Account Executive Role

Payment processing company RocketGate has hired industry veteran Joël Drapeau as its new account executive for business development and client relations.

VR Reloaded: Inside the Next Era of Immersive Adult Entertainment

For years, virtual reality in adult entertainment hovered somewhere between “quirky novelty” and “exciting promise of things to come.” While the technology hinted at a radically different way to experience erotic media, early experiments often required bulky headsets, complicated downloads, and production techniques that weren’t yet quite up to the task.

Pineapple Support Names Ocean Hanx Brand Ambassador

Pineapple Support has named creator Ocean Hanx as its newest brand ambassador.

Meta Restores Playboy Germany Facebook Page After Court Order

The Facebook page of Playboy Germany, the German-language edition of the magazine, is now back online after a two-month suspension by Meta, following an order by the Düsseldorf Regional Court.

Show More