Ubuntu features the Ubuntu Software Center that aims to be a simpler way of installing applications that the traditional repository system. While the tradition repository system is still what is used in the background, the Ubuntu Software Center improves the experience by hiding unnecessary details of a hierarchy of dependencies.
Just a few versions back the Software Center added support for commercial applications making it a Linux app store of sorts, since then the collection of software (applications and games) has be steadily increasing. In parallel, Canonical also features a music store as part of Ubuntu One that allows you to download DRM-free music and sync it across all your computers.
Now Canonical has announced that eBooks and eMagazines are also going to be available for purchase on the Ubuntu Software Center. Through a partnership with Pearson Technology Group and Linux New Media Canonical will offer a collection of high-quality PDF versions of a number of books and magazines.
VP Business Development at Canonical, Steve George says in the release: “Through this innovative partnership we are adding eBooks and magazines to the wide range of applications currently available in the Ubuntu Software Center, creating a fantastic revenue opportunity for Ubuntu developers and content creators.”
Officials from Pearson Technology Group and Linux New Media also commented on this partnership:
Paul Boger, Vice President and Publisher, Pearson Technology Group: “We’re excited to be one of the first publishers to add our books to the Ubuntu Software Center. This partnership will bring our content to a wider audience of people, and create a central repository for users who want to learn about Ubuntu.”
Brian Osborn, CEO, Linux New Media: “Publishing our magazine titles through the Ubuntu Software Center provides us with a new way to serve our readers globally. By providing our titles electronically, users can gain immediate access to the content they seek and enjoy it on any number of devices, wherever they are.”