Corel LINUX Grabs E-Commerce Bundling Deal

Software solutions developer Corel Corp. (Nasdaq: CORL) has announced a deal to bundle its distribution of the Linux operating system with hardware solutions produced by EBIZ Enterprises (OTC BB: EBIZ).

The deal centers around EBIZ’s e-commerce Web site, TheLinuxStore.com, and will add factory-installed versions of the Corel LINUX OS package to such EBIZ branded products as Element L Systems, the PIA (Personal Internet Appliance), desktops and workstations.

“We are excited to see an organization the size of Corel commit their resources to the growth of Linux,” commented EBIZ president Stephen Herman.

Building Upon Earlier Agreement

The current strategic deal builds upon a September 1999 agreement that EBIZ struck with Corel to load its low-end Element-L computer system series and PIA systems with Corel’s WordPerfect 8 for Linux.

“It is fitting that we are supplying our Linux software to a company that provides desktops, servers and workstations aimed exclusively for the Linux user,” commented Corel president and CEO Dr. Michael Cowpland. “Corel is very dedicated to the development of Linux and to bringing it into the commercial world, and we are proud to partner with another company who shares our commitment.”

About the Companies

With the help of the Debian Project, Corel released its Linux distribution in November 1999 at the first annual Linux Business Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

EBIZ had previously included its own customized version of the Debian Linux distribution with its hardware solutions. The company’s PIA product is an appliance that is designed to bring low-cost Linux-based Internet access to international consumers.

TheLinuxStore offers e-commerce patrons a selection of computers, peripherals and software, along with books and “GeekGear.” Vendors whose Linux-based products are available include Alpha Processor, AMD, Applix, Caldera, Compaq, Intel, Macmillan USA, O’Reilly Publishing and Red Hat.

The Penguin in 3D

Corel recently joined S3 Incorporated Professional Graphics Division (Nasdaq: SIII) to display 3D graphics on a Linux desktop at the CeBIT 2000 IT trade show in Hannover, Germany.

The S3 Professional Graphics Division (PGD) is currently developing the 3D Linux driver for the Fire GL1 accelerator, which will be included in an upcoming release of the Corel LINUX OS package.

“Last year, we began our partnership with Corel to deliver 2D graphics to the Linux desktop,” commented S3 PGD president Ian Cartwright. “We are now adding 3D graphics support through our expanded driver development for the Fire GL brand and plan to continue collaborative efforts with Corel to bring high-performance hardware/software solutions to the Linux corporate desktop market.”