14 DAY TRIAL // The Ubuntu developers have just released a new tool named Pilot for the mobile operating system and they are looking to crowdsource a very important aspect, testing the applications on the phone.
Canonical makes exhaustive tests when they release each new update and each new version of the operating system, and that can take a really long time. The problem is that developers can't test everything and the feedback from the community is an important part. If you remember, the desktop version of Ubuntu also has a tool that asks users for details when an application crashes and it opens up a new Launchpad entry.
Pilot is something similar, but it tests some of the components in the phone, and it sends the results back to Canonical. In theory, this should help them a great deal, but the reality is that there are only four devices right now in the wild, and there isn't a lot of diversity. Nonetheless, it's a good way on getting involved in the Ubuntu development and to have a contribution to the project, no matter how small.
How can I help?
It's quite simple. All you have to do is to download the Pilot application from the store and follow the steps. Everything is laid out quite clear, and everyone should be able to use it.
"We've been working on a way to allow those who have a Ubuntu phone to participate more directly in testing the software that runs on their device. This includes things like helping test OTA updates before they are shipped and to verify and look for bugs in applications like the core apps and system services. The application utilizes checkbox as a way of distributing tests to you on the phone. This first round of testing includes tests from 4 of your favorite core applications including dekko, clock, music, and weather," wrote the Ubuntu developer Nicholas Skaggs.
This doesn't seem like much, but any kind of feedback from the users is invaluable, and it will only make Ubuntu Touch a much better platform.