An available software update for Nokia's Linux-based N800 Internet tablet lets users access RealNetworks Inc.'s Rhapsody music store, said to feature three million songs. (more…)

The Free Software Foundation (FSF) on March 28 released the third discussion draft of the GPLv3 (GNU General Public License, version 3). As expected, the draft contains modified language designed to prevent “tivoization,” as well as language aimed at busting patent partnerships, such as the recent Microsoft/Novell deal. (more…)

Embedded industry pioneer Jim Ready will lead a 90-minute panel discussion at the Embedded Systems Conference (ESC) next week in San Jose, Calif. Ready's panel discussion is entitled, “The perfect storm: how Linux and Eclipse are revolutionizing embedded software… (more…)

PMC-Sierra is shipping a Linux-based hardware/software reference design for a high-speed optical network terminator (ONT), the “modem” in fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks based on passive optical networking (PON). The networking chip specialist said its PAS65311 GPON ONT design is based on a proven architecture extended to support gigabit Ethernet PONs (GPONs). (more…)

When the Open Source Development Labs and the Free Standards Group merged to form the Linux Foundation, one important unanswered question was: who would set the new organization's course? On March 27, that question was answered with the announcement of the group's new board of directors. (more…)

The next stable release of the Linux kernel will reportedly have a new paravirtualization ABI (application binary interface) contributed by VMware. The 2.6.21 kernel's “VMI” (virtual machine interface) ABI aims to let Linux modify itself for faster performance when run under a hypervisor. (more…)

Intel has created an ultra-low-cost laptop for school children in emerging markets. The “ClassMatePC” is available with Linux or Windows XP, comes with an “educational feature set,” and is part of a program in which Intel plans to invest $1 billion over the next five years. (more…)

[Updated Apr. 2] — Atmel is shipping the least expensive hardware/software Linux development kit we've come across in LinuxDevices.com's seven-year history. The $70 “Atmel Network Gateway Kit 100”, based on Atmel's “AVR32” RISC architecture, includes a tiny SBC (single-board computer), a full… (more…)

This guest column by Bruce Perens describes in plain language how Version 3 modernizes the GPL, while preserving the intent of earlier versions. Additionally, it debunks a few common GPLv3 myths, and suggests how the Linux kernel itself could someday wind up adopting the revised license. (more…)

Access has licensed Bluestreak Technology's Flash player for mobile phones and set-top boxes, suggesting its Linux-based software stack for mobile phones could be used in phones that receive digital TV. (more…)

The Consumer Electronics Linux Forum (CELF) has attracted a veritable who's who of embedded Linux speakers for its annual open-to-the-public conference, set for Apr. 17-19 in Santa Clara, Calif. (more…)

Foreword: This guest column describes in plain language how Version 3 modernizes the GPL, while remaining consistent in intent with earlier versions. Additionally, it debunks a few common GPLv3 myths, and suggests how the Linux kernel itself could someday wind up adopting the revised… (more…)

Lanner Electronics is offering a 3.5-inch SBC (single-board computer) with guaranteed availability through 2010. The EM-9360 is based on a 533/800MHz Via “Mark” processor with integrated northbridge, and targets applications where legacy features such as an ISA bus are required. (more…)

Chipmaker Infineon Technologies has enhanced the Linux-based software suite it provides with half-a-dozen broadband customer premises equipment (CPE) reference designs. The “Spinacer” suite adds an IMS-based (IP multimedia subsystem) device framework for FMC (fixed-mobile convergence), an optional TR-69 auto-provisioning extension, and support for Infineon VoIP chips with HD (high-definition) sound, the… (more…)

Connect One has established a U.S. subsidiary, and hired former Jungo VP Udi Yuhjtman to serve as the subsidiary's president. The M2M (machine-to-machine) networking chip and device server specialist hopes to play a “leading role” in the U.S. (more…)