What does the "official" linux provide that I wouldn't get from Ubuntu from

Hi,

I plan to use Linux exclusively (i.e. no dual boot) on my new Latte Panda. 

[1]
I followed the documentation to https://docs.lattepanda.com/content/1st_ ... u-1604-lts where there is a link to image at https://bit.ly/2JcDtiQ. 

This image is over a year old. Is it really the latest image?

[2]
Is there a reason not to install a generic Linux distro, such as Ubuntu directly from ubuntu.com? What would I be missing? I'd rather use the official Ubuntu source, all else being equal.

[3]
Is there a forum or channel specifically for Linux on the Latte Panda?

Thanks!