Key Points
- AWS IoT Greengrass is now available as a snap package for Ubuntu Core, creating a seamless path from edge devices to the cloud.
- Ubuntu Core’s security, reliability, and hardware compatibility make it ideal for enterprise IoT deployments.
- Companies can build industrial IoT solutions faster with less risk using AWS and Canonical’s supported, open-source ecosystem.
Canonical and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have teamed up to make building industrial Internet of Things (IoT) devices simpler and more secure. A new snap package for AWS IoT Greengrass is now available in the Canonical Snap Store, letting businesses deploy and manage edge devices running Ubuntu Core with AWS cloud tools.
What This Means for IoT Developers
AWS IoT Greengrass is a popular open-source platform that brings cloud computing capabilities to local devices. For example, a factory sensor could process data locally with Greengrass before sending important results to AWS cloud services. Now, with Greengrass packaged as a snap—Canonical’s universal software format—developers can install and auto-update it easily on Ubuntu Core, Canonical’s stripped-down, container-focused operating system for devices.
This integration matters because Ubuntu Core is built for long-term, reliable deployments. It’s fully containerized, meaning every app runs isolated for stronger security. For companies building smart appliances, medical devices, or factory equipment, this reduces the risk of crashes or breaches.
Why Ubuntu Core and Greengrass Work Well Together
Ubuntu Core’s strict security model requires every piece of software, including Greengrass, to run inside a “snap” container. This keeps the core operating system safe even if an app has a flaw. At the same time, Greengrass snaps can still communicate with other apps on the device, making it easier to build complex IoT workflows.
Long-term commercial support is another reason Canonical’s platform stands out. Unlike DIY Linux setups, Ubuntu Core includes updates for up to 12 years, which is critical for devices operating in remote or industrial settings where failures cost time and money.
Hardware and Cloud Freedom
AWS and Canonical also emphasized broad hardware compatibility. Ubuntu Core already supports chips from Raspberry Pi to NVIDIA Jetson, meaning companies aren’t locked into one manufacturer. When paired with AWS’s cloud services, teams can analyze data from these devices at scale without rebuilding their software stack.
This collaboration also reflects a shared commitment to open-source software. The Greengrass snap is freely available, letting businesses avoid vendor lock-in while still choosing enterprise support options from Canonical or AWS.
Real-World Impact
Imagine a solar farm operator who needs to monitor panels across hundreds of remote sites. Using Ubuntu Core devices with Greengrass snaps, they could process weather and energy data locally, then send insights to AWS. If a software bug is found, the fix updates automatically, avoiding expensive on-site repairs.
For developers, this means focusing on their product—not infrastructure. “You get a ready-made pipeline from device to cloud,” said an AWS spokesperson, “with security and maintenance handled by experts.”
Looking Ahead
Canonical and AWS plan to expand joint IoT solutions around robotics, energy, and healthcare. For now, businesses experimenting with edge computing can download the AWS IoT Greengrass snap from the Snap Store and test it on Ubuntu Core-supported hardware.
As IoT projects grow more ambitious, partnerships like this show how open-source ecosystems reduce complexity—letting big ideas run reliably, even at the edge.
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