#Japan #Tokyo #Avnet #Ubuntu Pro #Canonical

Avnet Partners with Canonical for Ubuntu Pro

In a significant development for the Japanese technology market, Avnet, a global distributor of electronic components, has become the official distributor of Canonical's enterprise-grade Linux solution, Ubuntu Pro for Devices. This strategic partnership aims to bolster software lifecycle management and enhance security for embedded and IoT devices.

As industries expand their utilization of IoT and edge computing in manufacturing, social infrastructure, medical devices, and industrial equipment, maintaining security and stability post-product launch has become increasingly critical. However, many manufacturers face challenges in continuous security updates, vulnerability management, and ensuring compliance with regulations. With the introduction of Ubuntu Pro for Devices, this innovative solution offers long-term security maintenance, vulnerability management, device management, and enterprise-grade support specifically tailored for Ubuntu-based embedded systems and IoT devices.

This offering enables continuous management of the software environment throughout the entire product lifecycle, thus ensuring long-term security and reliability, reducing operational risks, enhancing product value, and addressing various regulatory requirements.

Avnet's expertise spans across diverse technological domains, including semiconductors, embedded computing, software, cloud, and edge computing. Leveraging this knowledge, the company has successfully provided technical support to customers in Japan. The collaboration with Canonical allows Avnet to provide comprehensive assistance, from hardware selection to software integration, product development, mass production, and ongoing operation, thereby fortifying the security, maintainability, and scalability demanded by Linux-based embedded systems.

By combining Ubuntu Pro for Devices with globally acquired engineering support in fields such as embedded Linux, IoT, and edge AI, Avnet aims to offer system-level solutions that integrate hardware and software. This approach will not only reduce the development burden and risks for customers but also accelerate development timelines while enhancing long-term operational security. Avnet is committed to driving the development and practical implementation of next-generation embedded systems in the Japanese market.

Comments from Leadership

CS Chiang, Canonical's APAC Sales Director, expressed enthusiasm about bringing Avnet on board as a distributor for Ubuntu Pro for Devices. He stated, "We are thrilled to welcome Avnet as the distributor for Ubuntu Pro for Devices. With Avnet’s extensive technical knowledge and broad customer base, we anticipate a significant advancement in the adoption of Ubuntu-based embedded devices and IoT solutions within the Japanese market."

Yasumoto Motegi, President of Avnet Japan, commented on the heightened importance of security, software maintenance, and compliance in embedded systems as companies leverage edge computing and AI. He stated, "As a global technology solutions provider, we offer support throughout the product lifecycle, from planning and design to mass production and operation. With the implementation of Canonical's Ubuntu Pro for Devices, we can enhance our technical support to encompass not only hardware but also OS, security, and software lifecycle aspects."

Continuing on this trajectory, Avnet aims to utilize its global partner ecosystem and engineering expertise to empower customers to efficiently introduce safer and longer-lasting embedded IoT products to market. The company aspires to simplify technical complexities across the entire process, from product development to production and operation, and contribute to enhancing its customers' competitive edge in the market.

About Canonical

Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu, specializes in open-source security, support, and services. Its portfolio encompasses a diverse range of critical systems, from ultra-small devices to large-scale clouds, covering everything from kernels to containers, databases to AI. Canonical serves a variety of clients, including major tech brands, startups, government entities, and home users, providing reliable open-source solutions to all. For more information, visit canonical.com.

About Avnet

Avnet serves as a global technology solutions provider, capitalizing on an extensive ecosystem to offer customers knowledge and experience related to design, products, marketing, and supply chain at every phase of the product lifecycle. The company turns ideas into intelligent solutions, reducing time, cost, and complexity in the commercialization process. For nearly a century, Avnet has supported customers and suppliers worldwide in realizing technological transformations. For further details, visit avnet.com/japan.