SuperOS: Like Ubuntu But Easier

One problem I run into a lot when recommending Ubuntu to complete Linux newbies is they aren't used to installing codecs or using the terminal when they want to play DVDs, MP3s and other file types. Explaining the legal situation is something I make a point of doing but some people "just want it to work". This is what has led me to Super Ubuntu or SuperOS as it's now called. Once the recently released SuperOS 9.10 was adequately seeded I downloaded this enhanced version of Ubuntu and took it for a spin.

If you can't download it, buy SuperOS on DVD from our cart for $5.95.

Installation
One nice thing about recommending Ubuntu and other Ubuntu-based distros is that users are almost always able to get Ubuntu installed because of it's dead simple installation process. I noticed little if any difference between the Ubuntu and SuperOS installation. Here's the most detailed Ubuntu installation guide you'll ever need.

Appearance
Like the installation, you won't find many changes in the SuperOS appearance from its Ubuntu base. This is to be expected though as the distro is focused on providing all the benefits of Ubuntu plus something extra.

Play Anything Out Of The Box
I downloaded and tested several files and sure enough, you can play almost any media file type right out of the box on the Ubuntu-based SuperOS. This helps complete beginners feel more at home. Here's some file types that SuperOS supports out of the box. VLC plays DVDs, MP3 support is included along with QuickTime video, Real video, Windows Media Video, Flash Video, DivX, Xvid, and more.

Ubuntu Tweek
I checked this out for the first time because it comes pre-installed on SuperOS. Many of these options are very convenient and allow a higher level of customization to computer, applications, startup, desktop, personal, and system preferences. Ubuntu Tweak is useful enough I've scheduled a desktop customization project for myself so that I can fine tune the options and create a more personal desktop. I'll try and post some of that project here.

App-Runner
This small open-source utility makes it easy to run scripts and executable file types on Ubuntu. I was able to download Adobe Air installation .bin file, right click on it and select Scripts --- run --- any App - as normal user, which open the Adobe Air installation perfectly. This feature is a success in my book and very newbie friendly.

This is just a few of the advantages that SuperOS 9.10 offers out of the box over Ubuntu 9.10. Check out the full list of changes for SuperOS 9.10 over at the release announcement and if you're an Ubuntu struggling to play your media on Ubuntu, give SuperOS a try.

Download SuperOS
Buy SuperOS on DVD