Linux releasing its source code is seen as a major step, and those who are keen on operating systems will be pleased with this. Rockchip’s RK3188 processor is known to be among the fastest ARM Cortex-A9 chips around.

The 28nm quad-core processor supersedes the Samsung Galaxy S III and Google Nexus 7 chips. Judging by this detail alone, it’s no wonder why users are so thrilled with this source code release by Linux. Another great thing about this release is that the chip does not cost that much. It is hugely popular with the TV box makers and the Chinese tablet.

Gaining Access to Source Code

It is known that the majority of devices carrying the RK3188 processor, ship with the Android 4.1 or 4.2. However, soon enough it is possible that you will run Fedora, Ubuntu, or other desktop Linux operating systems on an RK3188 device. While people may get a hold of some Linux source code for the RK3188 chipset and post it somewhere, this can’t quite match a completely functional version of Ubuntu.

Some developers who are capable enough may use this source code in order to port Linux-based operating systems to work on these devices. Some devices are well known in this regard, such as the PicUntu, which can be used for this purpose.

The RK3188 chip is renowned for its speed and is known to be far quicker than any ARM-based processor. This refers to ARM processors that were released before the first half of 2012. However, it does not beat most x86 processors, which means that it would be unreasonable to consider it ahead of all others. Therefore, it’s unreasonable to expect Ubuntu to run on an MK802 IV the way it does on a laptop or desktop PC that carries an Intel Core i5 CPU.

Speed is of Tremendous Importance when Considering a Processor’s Worth

What users find exciting is the prospect of operating Linux on this kind of device. ARM-based hardware is noted for its good speed even though it is a lot cheaper than others. It is also way more energy efficient compared to lot of other devices that carry x86 processors. In view of this, you may be able to transform a $75 device such as the Tronsmart T428 into a Linux-powered PC. Such an upgraded device would be capable of running desktop apps such as GIMP, Firefox, LibreOffice, and many others.

You also have the power to transform a very small ARM-based mini PC into a home media server. There is also the possibility that you may even transform it into a web server. With these types of awesome abilities, it’s no wonder that users are pleased with this Linux release. Linux appears to be spreading its influence in small but very significant steps. It may very soon emerge as a major force at the rate with which it is moving from strength to strength.

[Image via androidinthelivingroom]