Updated Sep. 16 — Trolltech announced the release of version 1.7 of Qtopia, the Linux-based application environment for mobile embedded devices that is used in Sharp's Zaurus PDAs. The latest Qtopia release is said to offer new levels of speed, performance, and customizability. Specifically, there are three main enhancements: an application quick launch capability; an improved divide between the GUI and non-GUI portions of the source code; and improved external memory card handling.

Trolltech described Qtopia's key enhancements as follows . . .

• Application quick launch — significantly improved application launch time. Applications can be compiled to allow “Quicklaunching”, which reduces start-up time considerably by pre-loading and initializing core functionality. In addition to improving the user experience, this enables Qtopia to be successfully deployed on lower-end processors.
• Server split — an improved divide between the GUI and non-GUI portions of the source code offers manufacturers the option of either using the full Qtopia application suite or using the high-level Qtopia API to create customized launcher interfaces.
• Improved external memory handling — external memory card reading has also been enhanced. Document loading and scanning of removable media, such as CompactFlash and SD cards, has been improved.

According to Trolltech, Qtopia 1.7 free edition and Qtopia Desktop for Microsoft Windows, Linux and MacOS are available for immediate download from the company's website. Qtopia 1.7 commercial edition is immediately available for purchase.

 
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