Canonical today announced that two smartphone makers have agreed to manufacture and sell devices running the Ubuntu mobile operating system. The two hardware developers include bq, based in Spain, and Meizu, based in China. Both companies committed to bringing devices to the market this year. Further, Canonical said it has support from several large network operators to sell the Ubuntu smartphones in various markets. No U.S. carriers have yet said they'll sell Ubuntu devices. Canonical CEO Mark Shuttleworth said in December that it had forged partnerships with hardware makers, but did not name them at the time. Ubuntu is a Linux-based operating system that Canonical has been working on for years as an alternative to Android and iOS. The most recent release, version 13.10, was distributed last October. Canonical said more details about the first two smartphones will be revealed during the Mobile World Congress trade show, which starts February 24.


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