Super OS — an Ubuntu‑based 'out of the box' Linux distribution

Key characteristics

Unlike a minimal or stock Ubuntu install, Super OS packaged a selection of commonly requested extras so desktop functionality worked immediately after installation. Typical additions included proprietary multimedia codecs, firmware and hardware drivers, browser plugins and a set of convenience utilities and multimedia applications. The distribution aimed to preserve the same desktop experience and underlying package management as Ubuntu.

• Preinstalled multimedia codecs and format support
• Additional proprietary drivers and firmware for common hardware
• Extra applications and tweaks for usability
• Compatibility with Ubuntu repositories and update channels

History and development

The project began as Super Ubuntu and later rebranded to Super OS. It used remastering tools such as Reconstructor and other customization utilities to create modified installation images from Ubuntu bases. By basing on current Ubuntu releases, Super OS sought to benefit from the upstream distribution's stability and large ecosystem while delivering an enhanced desktop out of the box.

Installation, compatibility and maintenance

Installation followed the same general process as Ubuntu, producing a system that continued to use Ubuntu package repositories and tools such as APT. Because packages and updates were drawn from Ubuntu-compatible sources, users could install software and receive updates similarly to a regular Ubuntu installation. However, adding proprietary codecs and drivers raised licensing and redistribution considerations in some jurisdictions; projects like Super OS typically noted these differences compared with official Ubuntu images.

Use cases and notable distinctions

Super OS was most suitable for users who preferred a desktop that required little manual configuration after installation—people who wanted multimedia playback, hardware support and common applications working immediately. It differed from canonical releases by packaging additional, often proprietary, components and by being a community remaster rather than an officially supported Ubuntu flavor. For users seeking a ready-made alternative with similar goals, other derivatives and distributions—each with different philosophical and licensing choices—offer comparable approaches.

For further information or project resources see the community project page: Super OS project.