Roku has released a software development kit (SDK) for its embedded Linux-based HD1000 high definition digital media player, and will give away a giant LCD TV in a coding contest. The C/C++ SDK avails developers of APIs and libraries used in Roku's hacker-friendly HD1000.

(Click for larger view of Roku HD1000)

Roku runs “Roku OS,” based on GNU/Linux with kernel version 2.4.18. Roku started development with a distribution it got directly from hardware supplier ATI. The device leverages many popular open-source software components, including Samba, Busybox, jpeglib, zlib, id3lib, madlib, and more. However, Roku opted to write its own super-light HDTV-friendly graphics library and windowing system.

The Roku SDK provides a cross-platform development environment supporting Windows, Mac, or Linux-based hosts. According to Roku, it enables developers to exploit the HD1000's television-centric user-interface elements, media streaming, network and memory card access, and device control.

Don Woodward, chief technology officer at Roku, said “Roku customers have told us that they want music download and photo-sharing services, in addition to DVR, home security, and caller ID features. The Roku SDK will make these and other applications possible.”

The “Roku HDTV Jackpot Challenge” closes March 31, 2004. All entrants will receive a free Roku Art Pack for use with the HD1000 high-definition digital media player. The top-five applications will be posted on Roku's Web site for public download. One grand-prize winner will be selected to receive a sleek 37-inch Sharp Aquos HDTV-compatible LCD TV, which has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $5,999. Second- and third-place winners will receive a Roku SoundBridge network music player.

Developers are invited to download the SDK from Roku's Web site. Details of the contest can be found here.

For more information about Roku's HD1000, be sure to read this detailed Device Profile.

 
This article was originally published on LinuxDevices.com and has been donated to the open source community by QuinStreet Inc. Please visit LinuxToday.com for up-to-date news and articles about Linux and open source.