Kiwi is an Ubuntu Linux-based operating system, designed for Romania's user base, and available for free.
Kiwi is a free operating system designed for users in Romania and based on Ubuntu Linux. Available on a single CD, the project offers options for both live CD usage and installation on the hard drive.
One of the standout features of Kiwi is its inclusion of both proprietary software and non-open multimedia codecs. While free data formats and software are preferred, compromises are sometimes necessary for the sake of freedom. The Kiwi team believes it's better to run a combination of free operating system and proprietary codecs than to exclusively use proprietary operating systems and software.
In terms of its relationship to Ubuntu, Kiwi plans to release versions in line with the latest Ubuntu. Any features deemed appropriate for Ubuntu will be suggested for inclusion, with the aim of keeping the differences between the two operating systems contained to packages that aren't included in Ubuntu for various reasons.
As for development, most of the work on Kiwi is supported by Startx SRL. However, the vast majority of what's on the CD is the result of volunteer efforts from the free software community, including developers of Ubuntu, Debian, GNOME, Xorg, GNU/Linux, and other elements of the free software ecosystem. The translations included in the system are the result of work from Romanian and Hungarian free software localization teams, as well as individual translators.
All in all, Kiwi is an impressive free operating system that provides a viable alternative to proprietary systems. With its focus on free software and open standards, it's an excellent choice for users in Romania looking for a powerful and flexible operating system.
One of the standout features of Kiwi is its inclusion of both proprietary software and non-open multimedia codecs. While free data formats and software are preferred, compromises are sometimes necessary for the sake of freedom. The Kiwi team believes it's better to run a combination of free operating system and proprietary codecs than to exclusively use proprietary operating systems and software.
In terms of its relationship to Ubuntu, Kiwi plans to release versions in line with the latest Ubuntu. Any features deemed appropriate for Ubuntu will be suggested for inclusion, with the aim of keeping the differences between the two operating systems contained to packages that aren't included in Ubuntu for various reasons.
As for development, most of the work on Kiwi is supported by Startx SRL. However, the vast majority of what's on the CD is the result of volunteer efforts from the free software community, including developers of Ubuntu, Debian, GNOME, Xorg, GNU/Linux, and other elements of the free software ecosystem. The translations included in the system are the result of work from Romanian and Hungarian free software localization teams, as well as individual translators.
All in all, Kiwi is an impressive free operating system that provides a viable alternative to proprietary systems. With its focus on free software and open standards, it's an excellent choice for users in Romania looking for a powerful and flexible operating system.
What's New
Version 9.04: N/A