After the release of the Ubuntu Software Center in Ubuntu version 11.10, Canonical shows that it knows the appeal of apps and the company now sees its Ubuntu Linux operating system running on tablets and smartphones. Canonical seems to be targeting not only mobile devices but also smart TVs.

"It's important for us to reach out to our community on these platforms," Canonical founder Mark Shuttleworth told Vaughan-Nichols, a blogger for ZDNet. "So, we'll embrace the challenge of how to use Ubuntu on smartphones, tablets, and smart screens."

However, tablets and smartphones running on Ubuntu are not expected to appear earlier than mid-2012.

"The device world is highly competitive and highly dynamic, while Android and iOS dominate handheld devices, disruptive elements could still establish themselves," he told Vaughan-Nichols. "Ubuntu and Windows can still be a real force."

The company is expected to provide more details on its plans at the Ubuntu Developer Summit taking place this week.