We are happy to announce that Linux Mint entered in a joined partnership with Mattel and Microsoft. This partnership will result in Linux Mint being pre-installed on a new range of computers sold throughout the World and in a number of toys and games distributors.
The partnership will introduce the following changes for our distribution:
- All included components will be based on Mono. Technologies not using Mono will be rewritten or replaced by Mono alternatives.
- All present editions will be discontinued. New editions will replace them, namely a “Masters of the Universe Edition” for boys, a “Barbie Edition” for girls, and a generic “Microsoft Professional Edition” for small to medium companies.
- The default browser will be replaced by an emulation of Internet Explorer.
- All editions will come without an office suite but with full compatibility with Microsoft Office.
- Linux Mint won’t be available for download anymore, only through the purchase of one of these computers.
- The system will protect users against central software sources, such as the getdeb website, APT repositories and the download of .deb formatted files.
- APT and the .deb compatibility will be replaced with a new software manager including the latest offers from Microsoft. Users will be able to pay online for DLC without having to go to the shop to buy their favorite software.
On behalf of the team, I would like to say that I’m very excited about this. I have no doubt the community will be overjoyed by the news and I can’t wait for you all to finally see Linux Mint near you, in a retail store.
Oh… wait, it’s not going to be called Linux Mint anymore. It’s going to be called…. “April Foo OS” 
