Newcastle-based Broadband Computer Company has introduced a new Linux-based Laptop called Alex, designed to simplify common computing tasks by offering easy access to web browsing, email and social networking.

The company said that its 15.4-inch Alex laptop would offer a set of programs including office and image editing tools.

Users will get telephone support, software updates and broadband access against a monthly fee of 39.95 pounds for two years. Southampton-based ISP Murphx will provide broadband. Company also offers the Alex package at an upfront charge of 399.52 pounds plus a monthly subscription of 9.99 pounds for those with broadband.

Alex laptop's customized operating system is based on the most widely distributed version of the open-source operating system- Ubuntu Linux.

There is a USB latchkey, which is used to log into the computer in place of a password.