News Intel lets Linux into Centrino camp

Penguins can now fly, thanks to Intel allowing "official" Linux fuelled Centrino based laptops. This from News.com:

SAN FRANCISCO--Improvements to Linux have led Intel to permit Linux laptops to sport the Centrino brand for the first time.

Centrino is the chipmaker's brand name for a three-part package for mobile computers: the Pentium M processor, a supporting chipset and a wireless chip. Although Linux can run on existing Centrino notebooks, Intel until now wouldn't permit companies to sell Linux laptops using the Centrino logo.

The reason for the change: With the release of the 2.6.8 Linux kernel, the open-source operating system's power management abilities now meet Intel's requirements for Centrino notebook battery life, said Karen Regis, manager of mobile programs and promotions at the chipmaker.

"It was important to deliver what people expect out of the brand," Regis said, speaking at the launch of the new Sonoma version of the Centrino technology.

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