During vUDS we discussed 32 vs 64 bit, in particular what the messaging about the choice should be. The discussion started with outlining available data, and what further data we should be collecting for future analysis. At the moment, neither of the images is compatible with all machines out there (out of the box without modifying any bios/boot options). And we believe that 64-bit image has now become more compatible for new installations, and is more advantageous for people to install.
http://summit.ubuntu.com/uds-1308/meeting/21877/client-s-32v64-bit/ Thus on the download pages starting from 13.10 release the messaging will be adjusted to direct users by default at the 64-bit image, and hints will be given as to when users should select a 32-bit option instead. Similarly I'd like to ask all other flavours to carefully asses their demographic and target audience and potentially also adapt similar messaging strategy on their flavour websites to promote 64-bit images by default. Do note that AMD64-based processor, the Opteron, was released more than 10 years ago in April 2003. Below is the summary of above changes on the ubuntu.com/download pages for 13.10: http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop ================================== In both download boxes (LTS & 13.10): * On the right hand side above the "Choose your flavour" replace: "If you have a PC with the Windows 8 logo or UEFI firmware, choose the 64-bit download. Read more" with "If you have an older PC with less than 2GB of memory, choose the 32-bit download." * Update the Choose your flavour drop-downs, with first option - the default: - 64-bit - 32-bit (for machines with less than 2GB RAM) When the drop-down is expanded, 64-bit should be listed first. http://www.ubuntu.com/download/server ================================ Match the LTS Choose your flavour drop down to the desktop drop-downs - 64-bit - 32-bit (for servers with less than 2GB RAM) When the drop-down is expanded, 64-bit should be listed first. http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop/zh-CN ======================================= The warning message on the right & the LTS download box stay the same. (The Ubuntu Chinese 12.04.0 LTS does get re-published for point releases, and UEFI support was only introduced in .2 images) The Ubuntu Kylin box, will have the buttons change around: * 64 bit button on top * 32 bit button following below Regards, Dmitrijs. -- Ubuntu-release mailing list [email protected] Modify settings or unsubscribe at: https://lists.ubuntu.com/mailman/listinfo/ubuntu-release
