Dell is shipping its XPS 13 Developer Edition laptop with the latest version of Ubuntu pre-installed. Canonical and Dell have worked together to certify Ubuntu 18.04 LTS (Bionic Beaver) on the XPS 13 to ensure a seamless experience from first use.

Project Sputnik, the code name for Dell’s Linux project, was first launched in 2012 with Ubuntu pre-installed on the then current Dell XPS 13 model. Since then, Canonical and Dell have certified Ubuntu on many models including the Precision workstation range.

The new Dell XPS 13 Developer Edition is available in the US with 10 configurations featuring up to 1TB SSD, up to 16GB RAM and the latest 8th generation Intel Quad Core processors. The XPS 13 Developer Edition is said to provide impressive power for a range of applications whether for use in enterprise, at home or by developers.

All configurations feature InfinityEdge 13.3” near borderless display housed in a sleek silver magnesium body, which is the smallest in its class. Display options are available in either Full HD or Ultra HD resolutions with the option of touch on the latter.

“When Project Sputnik debuted over five years ago, we launched with one config of our XPS 13 developer edition on Ubuntu 12.04. Fast forward to today and thanks to the interest and support of the community, we are able to announce that our seventh generation XPS 13 developer edition now comes with Ubuntu 18.04 LTS. 18.04 represents Project Sputnik’s fourth preloaded LTS. We’re already looking forward to Sputnik’s fifth LTS in 2020,” said Barton George, Project Sputnik and Linux Lead at Dell.

Launched in April, Ubuntu 18.04 LTS includes a switch back to the GNOME desktop, minimal install for more control over the applications required by each user and full snap integration for easier access to the likes of Spotify, Slack, Skype and more. Every Ubuntu LTS provides support and security updates for 5 years.

“Building on our longstanding relationship with Dell over the last six years, we look forward to seeing 18.04 LTS roll out on further models in the coming months,” added Will Cooke, Desktop Engineering Director, Canonical.