IGEL Technology is keeping the options open for Citrix users of its thin and zero client solutions whilst preparing for Citrix XenDesktop 7. With its latest firmware update, the German thin client company is allowing its customers to decide when they switch to the new release and to ensure that the upgrade is smooth and trouble free. The IGEL firmware update (5.3.100) for Linux-based thin and zero client solutions includes two versions of the Citrix Receiver access software: the new Version 13 for Citrix XenDesktop 7.x or the previous Version 12, enabling IGEL customers to use their devices with any Citrix application.

"IGEL’s approach is always about open desktops and providing our customers with choice,” said Simon Richards, IGEL’s Managing Director for UK & Ireland. “By incorporating both Citrix Receivers into our firmware we are allowing our customers the option of continuing to add to their existing desktop estate using their existing setting profiles, whilst certain in the knowledge that their IGEL desktops will be ready for Citrix XenDesktop 7 when they choose to deploy it.”

Citrix XenDesktop 7 is an attractive proposition for thin client users for a number of reasons, such as access to the virtual desktops provided as part of the cost-effective Citrix VDI in a Box solution. It also provides direct access to StoreFront stores and Citrix XenApp sites. Citrix Receiver 13 also features a new graphical user interface via which users can subscribe to and launch apps and desktops (Self-Service UI).

Price and availability
The new IGEL firmware Version 5.3.100 with both Citrix Receivers is now available for downloading free of charge at www.myigel.biz. The update is aimed at all IGEL zero clients (IZ2/IZ3 HDX) and all multi-protocol thin clients in the IGEL Linux Universal Desktop range (UD2, UD3, UD5, UD9 and UD10) as well as all software thin clients that were created with the help of the IGEL Universal Desktop Converter 2 (UDC2) client standardization solution. The firmware with both Citrix Receivers will also be made available for IGEL's IZ1 HDX zero client.