McObject has achieved a major release of its in-memory, high-availability embedded database for connected mobile devices. ExtremeDB 3.0 adds support for battery-backed, nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM), better task scheduling, Unicode support, a remote access interface, pattern-matching queries, and a database browser. (more…)

A company that markets PowerPC-based boards and systems for the embedded and desktop markets is offering free systems to developers with ideas for projects deemed to enhance PowerPC platform computing. (more…)

IBM has published the following new technical articles, tutorials, and downloads on its DeveloperWorks website. They cover a range of interesting (though not necessarily embedded) technical topics, primarily related to Linux and open source system development. Some require free registration. Enjoy . . . ! (more…)

STMicroelectronics (STM) is sampling a new chip in its Nomadik mobile multimedia applications processor family. The STn8815 adds level-two cache, dedicated on-chip imaging and graphics processors, and security enhancements relative to the earlier STn8810, according to the company. (more…)

The world's largest phone company says it wants to create a more open environment for video content providers (CPs) wishing to reach its mobile phone subscribers. NTT-DoCoMo has signed an MOU (memorandum of understanding) with RealNetworks, saying Real's Mobile Streaming Server software could increase supply and demand for video content. (more…)

Nvidia is shipping a graphics processor said to be capable of implementing “high-quality” TV, video, audio, and 3D gaming on mobile phones. The GoForce 5500 handheld GPU (graphics processing unit) offers full-motion digital TV, high-fidelity surround-sound, rapid multi-shot photography, and “console-class” 3D graphics, according to the company. (more…)

Lippert says it will ship a COM Express module based on an Intel Core Duo processor, in Q2, 2006. The “Toucan” module is designed to support custom baseboards, and will be available with a mini-ITX-based development baseboard. (more…)

G-Tek has reportedly used Linux in a very basic, simple, dual-mode WiFi/quad-band GSM/GPRS phone that can provide Internet access to PCs and PDAs connected via USB or Bluetooth. The PWG500 can also provide “seamless roaming” between WiFi and mobile networks, when used with LongBoard's FMC software (fixed-mobile… (more…)

A struggle has emerged in the mobile phone industry, between competing approaches to “fixed mobile convergence,” or FMC. One approach provides consumers with a single number for calls routed over both “fixed” WiFi access points and “mobile” cellular radio networks. The other works with access points that are not carrier-controlled. (more…)

The third annual EclipseCon will feature 140 sessions, including several devoted to the top-level embedded tools project founded by Wind River, among other topics of interest to Linux-based device developers. The event is set for March 20-23, in Santa Clara, Calif., and features 140 presentations. 1,500 attendees are expected. (more…)

[Updated Thurs., Feb. 16, 2005] — Another defenseless gadget has fallen prey to the relentless march of the Penguinistas. Tim Riker's eLinux.org website has published extensive, detailed instructions for creating a cartridge that can boot any unmodified Mattel JuiceBox into a Linux-based… (more…)

The worldwide PDA market hit a new high in 2005, Gartner reports. Annual shipments were 14.9 million, up 19 percent over 2004, and surpassing the previous record of 13.2 million set in 2001. Additionally, Windows CE remained the top PDA operating system, accounting for nearly half of all PDA shipments, the market analyst firm said. (more…)

Ampro Computers has introduced a rugged ETX format SBC (single-board computer) module that offers full laptop-style ACPI 2.0 power management under Linux. The ETX 802 is based on a 1.4GHz Low Voltage Pentium M processor, and enables a new class of battery-powered embedded devices, according to the company. (more…)

PC DVD player software and codec specialist InterVideo is demonstrating a hardware/software digital video player reference design targeting mobile devices, at 3GSM in Barcelona. The company's iMobi design runs embedded Linux, and includes technology that can bring live digital TV to mobile phones, PDAs, and media players with Texas Instruments DSPs, the company says. (more…)

The world's largest database company has bought the world's most popular embedded database. Oracle has agreed to purchase Sleepycat, the company that maintains the ubiquitous Berkeley DB, offering it under a commercial licenses, as well as the open source Sleepycat Public License. (more…)