VMware launches for Kindle Fire, Linux, Mac

VMware, the all-encompassing virtual desktop software is eking its way to the Kindle Fire, Linux and Mac computers. An update has also been added to the iPad and Android clients. Ultimately, the Kindle Fire will soon become an interesting choice for users in an enterprise environment.

Sticking the power of a connected Windows desktop on a Kindle Fire is an excellent move. And one which may sway the modding community towards a 7-inch tablet.

According to VMware, the company is “doing it for the kids”. Says director Pat Lee, “More and more people want the freedom to choose the device that best fits their computing needs in school and into the workplace.”

Vmware wants to ensure that students have “readily-available access to their applications and a consistent learning experience across devices.” Translated: Vmware wants to ensure that their product is pushed out into as many devices as possible.

The new Vmware client includes the same “Rich desktop experience” seen in previous versions of the software. PcoIP, an advanced compression technology pushes data over existing network protocols at breakneck speeds.

In keeping with the multi-tasking mayhem of the Mac, the OSX Vmware client provides a full-screen experience for Lion users. This infers “seamless switching” between Mac apps and the virtual desktop. The inherent hassle of setting up a Vmware session is now simplified by Vmware view.

Linux users can download the new VMware client at the Ubuntu Software Centre. Kindle Fire users can grab the client on the Amazon App store.

The VMware Fusion virtualisation software, introduced last month, shipped with an interesting loophole. It let Mac users access virtual desktops without special software.

Connecting to a virtual Windows desktop has been Vmware’s forte since 1998. Competition includes the Microsoft Virtual Desktop Manager and Virtual Dimension.