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Microsoft Surface Pro can run Linux

By Michael Heller

Published: Feb 12, 2013, 3:44 PM

Windows Tablets

For a while, there were concerns that Microsoft was planning to lock down Windows 8 tablets in the same way that it had locked down Windows RT tablets, which would have meant a locked bootloader and therefore no option to set up a dual-boot system. But, the Microsoft Surface Pro team has confirmed that the tablet will be able to run Linux.

The information came via a Reddit Ask Me About Anything session with Panos Panay who is a Corporate Vice President at Microsoft and works on the Surface Pro Engineering Team. Reddit user Nygmatic asked, "For the Surface Pro....is the boot loader unlocked? Can I do what I want with my (potential) property? Or am I locked in to Windows 8?" Panay cleared up any concerns saying:

Like other Windows 8 machines, you can access BIOS settings and turn off secure boot, enabling you to load other OSes.

So, there you have it. Windows RT and Windows Phone may still be locked down, but Windows 8 tablets will work just like any other Windows device, meaning you could turn off secure boot and load up Ubuntu anytime you want.

source: Reddit via Venture Beat

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Michael Heller is known for his clear and informative articles on mobile technology. He explores important topics such as the rollouts of 5G networks and the advancements in mobile payments, offering readers insights into the evolving tech landscape.