A preview version of Ubuntu was announced by Canonical for both the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 tablets to be released on Feb. 21.

The Touch Developer Preview download will be available on the Ubuntu website and will come with installation tools to help transfer the its Linux-based operating system to tablets as well as smartphones such as the Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 4.

The Ubuntu tablet interface will work on devices from 6in to 20in, and pixel densities ranging from 100ppi to 450ppi.

The new Ubuntu comes with a variety of features of tablet users that include a "side stage," a multi-tasking feature that allows you to run tablet apps and smartphone apps on a single screen, according to CNET. It reportedly runs similar to Samsung's Multi Window multi-tasking feature.

Additionally, all of the apps created for the OS will be able to run on smartphones, tablets or any other device running Ubuntu. Applications will not need to be re-written or tweaked in any way to run on different hardware.

Users will also be able to create multiple accounts on one tablet, full encryption, and a customizable home screen. This gives tablet users a way to add personalization to their device along with a way to safeguard personal information.

Mark Shuttleworth, the founder of Canonical and Ubuntu, was quoted by IT Pro saying that the tablet was developed with security as an essential issue that will drive the appeal for users to operate Ubuntu.

"We see [Ubuntu for tablets] being adopted in enterprise settings...and there will be full encryption of each users' data...[so] tablets can be passed around factory floors or in healthcare and military settings," Shuttleworth explained.

The full release version of Ubuntu will be released in October, according to ZDNET. The company does not expect to ship devices with Ubuntu pre-installed until 2014.

Canonical plans on showing off the new Ubuntu at the upcoming Mobile World Congress that will take place in Barcelona, Spain starting on Feb. 25.

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Nexus 7