While there is a lot that I don’t really like about Linspire, they are the one company that I see working day after day to ensure that the average Windows user can honestly make the migration over to Linux. Today I learned that Linspire has teamed up with Micro Center to answer the call for a growing Linux desktop demand.

SAN DIEGO and HILLIARD, Ohio, May 11 /PRNewswire/ — Linspire, Inc. and Micro Center today announced that the two companies have formed a broad-based partnership to meet the rising demand for desktop Linux among mainstream computer users. Beginning today, all 20 Micro Center stores nationwide will sell Linspire’s Linux-based operating system in both the boxed version and pre-installed on desktop and laptop personal computers.

The partnership follows recent market research reports that predict revenues from desktop Linux PCs will grow to $10 billion by 2008. In addition, internal surveys by Micro Center reveal that more than 75 percent of its customers have an interest in running a Linux-based operating system.

“Micro Center is partnering with Linspire to provide an alternative operating system solution for our customers,” said Kevin Jones, vice president of merchandising for Micro Center. “Linspire is not only affordable, but its open architecture is of interest to many of our Micro Center shoppers. Our customers have indicated their desire to use a Linux-based operating system as either their primary or alternative OS. We want to establish Micro Center as the premier retailer to meet the needs of those customers.”

Micro Center will offer Linspire pre-installed on a number of PowerSpec desktop computers with prices ranging from $199 to $499. WinBook brand laptops starting at $699 will be available mid-year. System builders and hobbyists can also purchase specially priced OEM editions of Linspire in Micro Center’s “Build-Your-Own-PC” areas, bundling the affordable operating system with motherboards and other system components. [Read the rest]