Corel takes the lead with Linux

Canadian graphics and office suite software giant Corel has begun a major push into the world of Linux.

Corel's version of the Linux operating system shipped earlier this year, both as a free download from the Corel Web site and as a boxed product complete with manual and additional features (including WordPerfect Suite 8 Light for Linux) for $59.95. UK pricing has yet to be set.

Corel Linux is purported to have a simple four-step installation process - which is a welcome novelty for this alternative OS. It also comes with a file manager, a Web-based update feature, an e-mail client and a Web browser, and a graphical KDE desktop.

Corel also announced WordPerfect Office 2000 for Linux at the beginning of February, with an RRP of £149. The suite consists of the same applications as that for Windows (WordPerfect, Quattro Pro and Corel Presentations) and Corel Linux is also included.

Of course Corel is most famous for its graphics products and it has already previewed Corel Draw and Photo-Paint for Linux. The applications are scheduled for release in the Autumn, which means that by the end of the year, PC users will have a credible alternative operating system to Microsoft Windows that has some heavyweight applications behind it.

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