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

Segpay Names Tom John CTO

Segpay has appointed Tom John as its new Chief Technology Officer.

JustFor.fans Launches Curated 'Tom of Finland' Section

JustFor.fans (JFF) has launched a curated section based on artist Tom of Finland's work, featuring creators inspired by it.

Dutch Police Raid Servers Hosting 'Motherless' Website

A Dutch National Police Corps cybercrime team on Tuesday conducted raids on hosting companies in three cities, seizing servers owned or used by controversial adult website Motherless, as part of an investigation into possible illegal content.

MyMember.site Rolls Out 'TantumPay' Solution

MyMember.site has debuted its TantumPay payment processing solution.

StreamPayments Joins ASACP as Corporate Sponsor

Payment service provider and consultancy firm StreamPayments has signed on as the latest corporate sponsor for Association of Sites Advocating Child Protection (ASACP).

AdultHTML Introduces Custom AI Projects Development Service

AdultHTML has introduced its customizable AI projects development service.

Eporner Must Face Copyright Suit After Judge Affirms Jurisdiction

A U.S. district court has ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by adult website operators against tube site Eporner, even though Eporner is based outside the United States.

BranditScan Launches Public API, Affiliate Program

BranditScan has launched a public API and a new affiliate program enabling creator platforms to integrate the company’s anti-piracy services and earn recurring commissions.

Kenna James, Derek Kage Cap AEBN's Top Stars for 2nd Quarter of 2026

AEBN has revealed its most popular performers in straight and gay theaters for the second quarter of 2026.

Segpay Partners With Corey Silverstein for Legal Services

Segpay has partnered with adult industry attorney Corey D. Silverstein for specialized legal compliance and policy support for its merchant network.

Show More