A new version of a world-beating PC operating system has been released by a Manx-based software company.

Canonical, which is headquartered in Douglas with offices scattered throughout the world, has unveiled its Ubuntu Linux 8.1

The new version is already causing a stir in techy circles as Canonical’s version of Linux is one of the most widely-used in the world.

Codenamed Intrepid Ibex, there are a number of improvements in the free download, including photo software which uploads snaps to social networking sites.

There is also support for PSPs, iPods and MP3 players as well as full support for 3G laptops.

You can download Ubuntu for free at Ubuntu.com

(Image: Ubuntu logo).