Startup launches mobile Linux platform

Linux continues to make great improvements in stability and usability. But there is no doubt in my mind that there are still significant fragmentation issues that need to be addressed.

In another indication of the momentum behind the idea of Linux on mobile phones but also of the fragmentation that plagues the segment, a startup company on Monday announced an open Linux mobile smartphone platform.

A la Mobile said the platform, which comprises a complete software stack including the kernel, middleware and application layer, will become available for handset manufacturers in September and that it will be certified, supported, tested and maintained. A la Mobile said that using the platform will allow handset makers to reduce development, testing, and deployment costs and cut down on development time.

Because the platform will be open, handset manufacturers will be able to customize many aspects of the product including user interface components such as icons and branding and configuration elements like the browser. That will set the platform apart from the other proprietary operating systems, A la Mobile said. It will compete against Symbian, the leading smartphone operating system, as well as Research in Motion, Microsoft, and PalmSource…. Source: InfoWorld