Texas Instruments (TI) released a library aimed at making it easier for developers to exploit its VICP (video/imaging coprocessor) hardware accelerator. The free library lets C programs control the VICP, which offloads media processing tasks from the DSP (digital signal processor) core of certain Linux-compatible DaVinci system-on-chips (SoCs). (more…)

The netbook category grew at a quarter-to-quarter rate of more than 160 percent in the third quarter, and Acer bypassed Asus as the top vendor, says a DisplaySearch study. (more…)

Google is offering SIM- and hardware-unlocked HTC G1 phones to members of its Android developer network. Priced at $400 ($425 with network member fee), the “Android Dev Phone 1” aims to provide developers with real hardware to test their applications on. (more…)

[Updated: Dec. 9, 2008] — Sierra Wireless is shipping a Linux software development kit (SDK) for its 3G wireless modules. The Linux SDK supports its HSPA- and EV-DO Rev-compatible modems, says the company, which also announced it was acquiring embedded wireless vendor Wavecom. (more…)

Foreword — This brief paper explains the forward-looking work done by the SCOPE Alliance in identifying the advanced features needed in tomorrow's Linux kernels. Though focused on “carrier grade systems” for telecom networks, the group's work results in mainline contributions that ultimately benefit any Linux developer, including device developers. (more…)

[Updated: Dec. 9, 2008] — An alpha-stage “social” media center distribution is bringing Netflix video downloads to Linux desktops for the first time, says an industry blog. The Boxee software offers a unified gateway to a variety of social- and media-networking services, says Boxee. (more…)

The recession is hindering smartphone sales, says Gartner, which reported the segment's weakest year-on-year growth since the study began. Sales totaled 36.5 million in 3Q 2008, up 11.5 percent from 3Q 2007, but Linux's share held fairly steady at 7.2 percent from the previous quarter. (more…)

Db4objects, Inc. has sold its Linux-compatible Db4o object database for Java and .Net objects to Versant Corp., and has changed its name to Servo Software. Going forward, Servo Software will focus on a forthcoming user data management service for wireless devices, it says. (more…)

Eurotech announced a 2.8 x 1.8 inch computer module with a 532MHz i.MX31 SoC (system on chip), plus a carrier board to go with it. The Turbo G5 runs Linux, with 128MB of RAM, 32MB of flash, plus OpenGL-ES and Direct3D-Mobile graphics acceleration, says the company. (more…)

Wind River released another solid earnings report in the third quarter, reporting a 12 percent increase in revenues to $91.6 million, and a nine percent increase in deferred revenues to $125.8 million year-over-year. Linux revenues totaled $13.3 million, an increase of 71 percent over last year, says the company. (more…)

Developers at Linux consulting firm NthCode have ported Android 1.0 to Nokia's N810 Internet tablet — and they explain how they did it in a detailed LinuxDevices whitepaper. (more…)

An Australian firm today announced “the first Aussie phone powered by Android.” Kogan Technologies sells two models of the Kogan Agora without a contract, with both Linux/Android phones offering 3G and Bluetooth connectivity, and the pricier “Pro” adding a 2-Mpixel camera, WiFi, and GPS, says Kogan. (more…)

Foreword — This paper describes the how Android 1.0 was first ported to Nokia's N810 Internet tablet. A fascinating, well-told tale in its own right, it may also help others with similar porting projects to gauge the time and resources that may be required. (more…)

Access has started developing an operator service pack for NTT DoCoMo's 3G “FOMA” network. Compliant with LiMo (Linux Mobile Foundation) APIs, the pack will support DoCoMo services such as i-Mode, and will help Linux phone makers provide “immediate” support for DoCoMo on their devices, Access said. (more…)

Axiomtek is readying a full-size PICMG 1.3 SBC (single-board computer) boasting an Intel Core 2 Quad processor. Targeting control and automation, visual inspection, digital surveillance, and network security applications, the Linux-ready SHB102 supports 16GB of DDR3, and has two gigabit Ethernet and a dozen USB ports. (more…)