I just got back to my desk to discover my Windows Firefox had updated itself to 2.0.0.6.
Another opportunity for the Zonbu team to spring in to action. Since the Linux version doesn’t auto-update itself, it will be interesting to see how quickly Zonbu rolls out this security patch to its users.
This is the kind of high value service that makes the monthly subscription fee worthwhile for average users.
-Mr. Zonbu
Real life with the Zonbu Mini-PC 
I have my Ubuntu box set for auto updates. Granted it takes a few days before security patches hit the repos. I honestly don’t see the value of the subscription plan, other than the web storage space. But you can buy that directly from Amazon’s S3 and it works out considerably cheaper than the $12.95 Zonbu charges. I like the device a lot though. I ordered the standalone desktop version Zonbox with out the subscription plan yesterday for $256 shipped. I looked at building a via C7 fanless mini-itx myself, but found that the total cost of all the parts for a 512 MB with a 4 GB flash card costs more than the $256 shipped Zonbu is charging, and the it would be considerably bigger and uglier looking. I think the device itself is the real bargain here.
Thanks for the comment Gregg.
I hear what you’re saying, but you don’t sound like the main target audience for the Zonbu. In fact, you sound more like me. I have no doubt that a tightly controlled system like the Zonbu is going to result in fewer support issues for light-use end-users than a full on Ubuntu install is. Don’t get me wrong, I have Ubuntu on servers and laptops here, and I think its a great OS, but its not for everyone – at least not yet.
The sandbox that Zobu is building actually suits most users, and I’ve discovered it even suits me for a lot of my home use. I just don’t need to worry about anything, I can just go about my business.
I’m looking forward to hearing your thoughts when your box arrives.
-Mr. Zonbu
True, I guess I’m not the target user for the service, but I’m definitely excited about things I can use this tiny, quiet, always-on device for. The only thing I wish it had is a TV out. They really need to include that in the next version. I’ll post about my experience with it after it’s delivered, which hopefully will be soon.
Is there really any need to update to the patched version? Would these patches have any effect on Zonbu or linux users one way or the other.
Gary, that’s a good question.
Before I made the post I headed over to the FF site and looked at the change log. There was nothing that indicated the security problems were specific to Windows, so I assume Linux users will benefit as well.
-Mr. Zonbu
[…] Release Notes & Firefox now 2.0.0.6 Five days ago I wondered out loud how long it would take the Zonbu team to push the latest Firefox security upgrade out to Zonbu […]