Dell confirms desktop Linux expansion

Dell's open source programme is facing increasing scrutiny

Dell has announced plans to further expand its offerings of desktop Linux systems. 

The company currently ships Linux desktops and notebooks only in the US and limits these offerings to consumers.

But Lionel Menchaca, digital media manager at Dell, said on a company blog that international expansion is in the works, as well as the addition of a small business product line. 

Dell's commitment to expand its desktop Linux offerings comes as the firm's open source programme is facing increasing scrutiny.

Customers had highlighted issues concerning international expansion and business availability. 

The vendor introduced the Linux systems after users raised the proposals on Dell's IdeaStorm website. But critics have argued that social voting services such as IdeaStorm have seldom translated to business success.

The movie Snakes on a plane, for instance, gathered a large online fan base before its release, but failed to ring up sales at the box office.