SAN DIEGO, June 24, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Computer-makers, for the first time, can take advantage of a low-cost, flat-fee licensing plan (www.lindows.com/builders) allowing them to bundle LindowsOS on as many machines as they want, doing away with the standard per-machine costs machine-builders have historically paid. This business-friendly approach to computer software bundling will make computers more affordable and help computer manufacturers become more profitable.
"We spent a lot of time talking to literally hundreds of computer builders getting their input," said Michael Robertson, Chief Executive Officer of Lindows.com, Inc. "They told us they wanted a simple choice that wouldn't require per-copy tracking, registration codes, and long-term commitments, all of which negatively impacts profits. The Lindows.com Builder (www.lindows.com/builders) program at $500 per month is a radical departure from the per-copy licensing program most computer builders are used to. This will be a huge savings for computer assemblers in both licensing and logistical costs which will ultimately make them more profitable and deliver savings to their customers as well."
A recent report filed by IDC, states that unbranded PC computer vendors account for 58 percent of the total worldwide PC market. These computer builders, who represent such a significant margin of the market, will now have an affordable choice beginning today (www.lindows.com/builders).
Large or small PC manufacturers, which include System Builders, OEMs VARs, System Integrators, White Box manufacturers and resellers, can sign-up for the Builders licensing program (www.lindows.com/builders) which charges a flat monthly-fee permitting builders to ship an unlimited number of computers running the latest version of LindowsOS. Whether shipping a handful or a thousand units, computer companies can avoid the traditional per-machine license plan.
Builders who join the program are eligible to receive LindowsOS certification ensuring complete compatibility. Builders also receive access to the Builder's Resource Area which includes a number of tools and support to help Builder's effectively test, install and sell LindowsOS.
Builders' customers receive high-touch, world class, e-support for LindowsOS products and gain access to the Click-N-Run Warehouse which allows them to customize their computer with access to thousands of software products. See www.lindows.com/warehouse for more details. Builders also receive:
-- Automated sign-ups 24-hours-a-day - one easy online form.
-- Immediate access to software - download LindowsOS at any time.
-- Desktop Customization - Builder's logo is the first image
customers see
-- Access to Click-N-Run Warehouse (where builder's customers receive
trial membership allowing them 3 free product downloads
www.lindows.com/warehouse)
-- Hardware Burn-in Tools
-- Eligibility for LindowsOS Certification
-- Marketing Collateral
-- Builder's support
-- Access to Builders Resource Area
-- Ability to customize CDs
-- No Activation Codes
-- No Forecasting
-- No Long-term Commitments
See Builder's FAQ for more details.
"Lindows.com's OEM licensing plan will drastically change the economics for computer manufacturers and lower the overall price of computers everywhere," stated Rich Hindman, Vice President of Microtel Computer systems, who currently ships LindowsOS for major retailer, Walmart.com. "This type of program is not only easy and effective; it is a catalyst for change in the computer industry. Customers get great value and gain access to the Lindows.com Click-N-Run Warehouse (www.lindows.com.warehouse) which is a tremendous value in terms of software savings."
Lindows.com Builder's plan, available now, is completely online allowing computer manufacturers to sign-up electronically at http://www.lindows.com/builders. Once signed up, users gain immediate access to digital versions of the LindowsOS software enabling them to download and test the software with their configurations.
Using any major credit card, builders can sign-up for the program by paying $500 per month. With no long-term commitments, no paper work and online registration, computer builders can focus their energy on delivering their product.
Lindows.com's Builder Program means no activation codes, no audits, no volume pricing, and no forecasting. Read the Builder FAQs.
Builders interested in learning more about the program, can visit www.lindows.com/builders or contact builders@lindows.com.
To receive Lindows.com press releases or newsletters via email, visit www.lindows.com/mailing.
About Lindows.com, Inc.
Lindows.com is a consumer company that brings choice to computer users. Lindows.com, Inc. was started by Michael Robertson, founder and former CEO of MP3.com. LindowsOS is a modern, affordable, easy-to-use operating system that allows users access to hundreds of applications via the Click-N-Run(tm) Warehouse. All applications in the Click-N-Run Warehouse (www.lindows.com/warehouse) are licensed on a per-person or family basis and can be downloaded, installed and run with just one-mouse click.
About Microtel Computer Systems
Microtel Computer Systems, through its built-to-order business model, designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements, and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Microtel desktop PCs are sold through U.S. retailers, System Integrators, and VARS/VADS. Visit www.buymicrotel.com for more information.