In what can be termed as IBM's direct attack at the Microsoft operating system, more so as Windows 7 is just round the corner, the IBM Client for Smart Work package will soon see a US launch by the company, in partnership with Canonical, the business entity behind Ubuntu Linux.

Designed for netbooks and low-end PCs, the cloud- and Linux-based desktop packages - which were essentially made for the emerging markets and were launched in Africa last month - would chiefly aim at enticing the customers away from Windows 7, especially as they come at half the price of Microsoft's new OS' upgrade.

Running on the Ubuntu Linux, the US version of the packages comprise quite a few IBM products, like word processing and spreadsheets via Lotus Symphony, e-mail via Lotus Notes or LotusLive iNotes, and collaboration tools from LotusLive. com.

Furthermore, the Linux that IBM-Canonical team is bringing to the desktop would offer a potential next-generation thin-client which, though dependent on cloud services, is essentially based on an actual OS instead of merely running in a Web browser.

Extolling its new product, IBM said: "Since the IBM Client for Smart Work is based on Eclipse, Linux and open Web standards, it can integrate with any third-party software. This gives companies the freedom to use technologies of their choice, extend their functions and preserve existing investments."