According to a report by DigiTimes, Intel may temporarily discontinue development on MeeGo to focus on hardware products for Android and Windows Phone handsets in 2012. This decision is said to be due to the lack of enthusiasm for MeeGo from handset and PC vendors, with the only exciting device for the platform being the Nokia N9. But even with that handset, distribution is being limited to very select markets to avoid competition with Nokia’s upcoming Windows Phone offering.

MeeGo was first launched by Intel and Nokia in March 2010 as a combination of each company’s Linux-based OS platforms called Maemo and Moblin. Almost a year after the merge, slow development on the platform may have led Nokia to switch to Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 platform, relegating MeeGo to the R&D playground and setting an expiration date in 2016 for Symbian.

All of the devices on the list are based on ARM processors, though there are no specifics as to which chip might slot in where.  From the leaked ARM roadmap last week, though, we do know that the Q3 2011 period would fit in well with the new dual-core 800MHz “Orion” Cortex A9 chipset.  Both the Sparta and Athens appear to have 11-inch 1024 x 768 displays with optional 3G, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

There’s also a second version of the 7-inch Looking Glass tablet from last week, the Looking Glass Pro (or “LG Pro” on the roadmap), with an HD display and integrated digital TV tuner.  That’s tentatively expected in January 2011, five months after the Looking Glass (which has an 800 x 600 display) arrives.  Finally, the Dell Streak (aka the Dell Mini 5) is due in the US (on T-Mobile) and in Europe (on Vodafone) in the summer, with a Chinese version following on after that.  The Streak also gets both Android and Moblin logos, suggesting we may see a MeeGo version of that, too.

Performance seemed reasonable on both devices, though there were some missed-taps on the touchscreen and both builds were very much works-in-progress.  We also took the opportunity to quiz Intel about what exactly will differentiate Moorestown from other next-gen chipsets, like NVIDIA’s Tegra or Texas Instruments’ OMAP4, since performance didn’t seem anything excessive over what other platforms we’ve tested.

Their stance is that Moorestown brings with it flexibility – greater flexibility to run various platforms, including those intended for ARM and x86 systems – and of course as well as Android and Moblin there’ll be MeeGo support when that OS arrives later in 2010.  Moorestown will be capable of running in a low-power mode for regular smartphone duties, or in a high-power (comparable to a netbook-style devices) mode when you need some processing or multimedia grunt.

The expectation is that Aava Mobile will offer the handset as a reference design, rather than selling it directly.

Of course, since other devices support Qt – such as Symbian – apps will also load on those handsets too.  As for hardware support, MeeGo will run on both x86 Intel Atom processors and ARM-based chipsets more commonly found in mobile handsets.  All the usual buzzwords are here, ubiquitous connectivity being the most significant one.

Intel and Nokia expect the first MeeGo release to be in Q2 2010, though the open-source source code will be released in the next few weeks, while the first devices should be on sale by the end of the year.  There’s more information at the MeeGo site.

Press Release:

Intel and Nokia Merge Software Platforms for Future Computing Devices MeeGo* enables an open ecosystem for rapid development of exciting new user experiences
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS:
• Global leaders Intel Corporation and Nokia merge Moblin and Maemo to create MeeGo*, a Linux-based software platform that will support multiple hardware architectures across the broadest range of device segments, including pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones, connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems.
• MeeGo offers the Qt application development environment, and builds on the Moblin core operating system and reference user experiences. Using Qt, developers can write once to create applications for a variety of devices and platforms, and market them through Nokia’s Ovi Store and Intel AppUpSM Center.
• MeeGo will be hosted by the Linux Foundation and governed using the best practices of the open source development model. The first release of MeeGo is expected in the second quarter of 2010 with devices launching later in the year.
• Nokia and Intel expect MeeGo to be adopted widely by global device manufacturers, network operators, semiconductor companies, software vendors and developers.
ESPOO, FINLAND, and SANTA CLARA, CALIF., Feb. 15, 2010 – In a significant development in the convergence of communications and computing, Intel Corporation and Nokia are merging their popular Moblin and Maemo software platforms. This will create a unified Linux-based platform that will run on multiple hardware platforms across a wide range of computing devices, including pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones, connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems. Called MeeGo, the open software platform will accelerate industry innovation and time-to-market for a wealth of new Internet-based applications and services and exciting user experiences. MeeGo-based devices from Nokia and other manufacturers are expected to be launched later this year.
This announcement strengthens the Nokia and Intel relationship, and builds on the companies’ broad strategic collaboration announced in June 2009. Intel and Nokia now invite participation in MeeGo from existing Maemo and Moblin global communities and across the communications and computing industries.
“Our vision for seamlessly communicating between computing devices from the home, auto, office or your pocket is taking a big step forward today with the introduction of MeeGo,” said Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini. “This is a foundational step in our evolving relationship with Nokia. The merging of these two important assets into an open source platform is critical toward providing a terrific experience across a variety of devices and gaining cross- industry support.”

“MeeGo will drive an even wider range of Internet computing and communication experiences for consumers, on new types of mobile devices,” said Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, CEO, Nokia. “Through open innovation, MeeGo will create an ecosystem that is second to none, drawing in players from different industries. It will support a range of business models across the value chain, building on the experience and expertise of Nokia, Intel and all those who will join us. Simply put, MeeGo heralds a new era of mobile computing.”
MeeGo blends the best of Maemo with the best of Moblin to create an open platform for multiple processor architectures. MeeGo builds on the capabilities of the Moblin core OS and its support for a wide range of device types and reference user experiences, combined with the momentum of Maemo in the mobile industry and the broadly adopted Qt application and UI framework for software developers.
MeeGo also unites the robust worldwide Maemo and Moblin applications ecosystems and open source communities. For developers, MeeGo extends the range of target device segments for their applications. Using Qt for application development means that they can write applications once and easily deploy them on MeeGo and across other platforms, for example, on Symbian.
The Ovi Store will be the channel to market for apps and content for all Nokia devices, including MeeGo and Symbian-based, with Forum Nokia providing developer support across all Nokia device platforms. The Intel AppUpSM Center will be the path to market for Intel-based MeeGo devices from other device manufacturers, with the Intel® AtomTM Developer Program providing support for applications targeting devices in a variety of categories.
The MeeGo software platform, running on high-performance devices, will deliver a range of Internet, computing and communication experiences, with visually rich graphics, multitasking and multimedia capabilities and the best application performance. Since MeeGo runs on multiple device types, people can keep their favorite applications when they change devices, so they are not locked into one kind of device or those from any individual manufacturer.

MeeGo Hosted by the Linux Foundation
The MeeGo software platform will be hosted by the Linux Foundation as a fully open source project, encouraging community participation in line with the best practices of the open source development model. Intel and Nokia invite the respective members of Maemo.org and Moblin.org to join the combined community at MeeGo.com, as well as encouraging wider participation from the communications, computing and related industries. Developers can begin writing applications for MeeGo in Qt immediately. The first release of MeeGo is targeted for the second quarter of this year.
About Intel
Intel [NASDAQ: INTC], the world leader in silicon innovation, develops technologies, products and initiatives to continually advance how people work and live. Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com/pressroom and http://blogs.intel.com. About Nokia
Nokia is a pioneer in mobile telecommunications and the world’s leading maker of mobile devices. Today, we are connecting people in new and different ways — fusing advanced mobile technology with personalized services to enable people to stay close to what matters to them. We also provide comprehensive digital map information through NAVTEQ; and equipment, solutions and services for communications networks through Nokia Siemens Networks.

The Moorestown chip will mean the GW990 is capable of playing HD video and of 3D gaming, and of course there’s the usual high-end smartphone functionality too.  That means WiFI and A-GPS, along with a digital compass and 5-megapixel camera.

As for the customized UI, that consists of a three-pane view when in landscape orientation that allows you to control disparate elements of the smartphone simultaneously; for instance, you could keep an eye on your email inbox while simultaneously navigating through music playlists.  We’re waiting for full specifications and more details from LG, and will update when we know more.

[Image via Engadget]

Press Release:

Intel CEO: ‘Computing No Longer Confined to the PC – It’s Everywhere’

News Highlights
Otellini described how “personal” computing is transforming Intel and the industry.
Showcased innovative technologies and design wins across Intel’s PC and other growth businesses.
Introduced several PC platform products, including over 25 Intel® Core™ processors and Intel® Wireless Display technology.
Unveiled upcoming LG Electronics* smartphone, Orange* media set-top box, and embedded technology concepts for home energy management and interactive, in-store shopping.
Revealed beta version of a software application storefront aimed at netbooks called the Intel AppUp Center. OEMs Acer*, ASUS*, Dell* and Samsung* collaborating with Intel to bring innovative apps to consumers.

INTERNATIONAL CONSUMER ELECTRONICS SHOW, Las Vegas, Jan. 7, 2010 – Intel Corporation President and CEO Paul Otellini today talked about how “personal computing” is expanding beyond the PC to nearly every kind of electronic device, transforming Intel and the industry in the process. He also unveiled several innovative technologies and design wins that spanned Intel’s PC and other growth businesses, including netbooks, smartphones, CE devices and “connected” embedded technology.

“Computing is no longer confined to your computer – it’s everywhere,” Otellini said during his CES keynote speech. “Advances in connectivity, intuitive user interfaces, immersive content and computer chip performance have allowed computing to move into new areas. Computing moving into all manner of devices and experiences all around us improves our personal productivity and enjoyment.”

Otellini described how Intel and the industry are delivering the vision he painted in his keynote 2 years ago at CES. Computing is being integrated into every relevant aspect of people’s lives, he said, whether they are on their computer or smartphone, watching TV, in the car or out shopping. A seamless personalized experience tailored to individuals’ interests, needs and social networks will deliver the information, entertainment and experiences people want, whenever, however and wherever they want. To illustrate his point, he demonstrated exciting advances in mobile device applications, 3-D content, smarter phones and TVs, and areas traditionally not associated with computing such as home energy management and digital signage.

Otellini described how bringing the world of simple and useful “viral” applets to Intel® Atom™ processor-based devices will further bring this vision of “personal” computing to life, creating new usage models and a unique and powerful distribution channel for software developers. Intel created the Intel® Atom™ Developer Program in September to address this opportunity. He revealed a beta version of a software app store for netbooks that Intel launched today called the Intel® AppUpSM Center. The first apps, which span education, entertainment, games, health and other categories, are now available for free download or purchase by visiting www.intelappup.com. Acer*, ASUS*, Dell* and Samsung* are the first OEMs to announce support for apps stores based on the Intel AppUp Center. Otellini said Intel and its partners expect to expand the stores over time to include applications for other large categories such as PCs, handheld CE devices, smartphones, CE appliances, TVs and other devices based on future Intel processor families.

As an example of new ways to connect computing devices in the home, Otellini also unveiled a product today called the Intel® Wireless Display. Using a laptop powered by select all new 2010 Intel® Core™ processors and enabled with this display technology, an individual can quickly stream videos, photos and other content from the PC to the HDTV over a WiFi connection. On Jan. 17 laptops by Dell*, Sony* and Toshiba* and a TV adapter by NETGEAR* – featuring Intel® Wireless Display – will be available at Best Buy* in the United States and Canada as part of its Blue Label 2.0 program.

“Computing in the home is rapidly expanding beyond the PC,” Otellini said. “The TV will continue to be a focal point of the home while becoming smarter, much in the way phones are evolving into smartphones. New user interfaces and forms of connectivity will change the way we interact with entertainment in the home.”

Intel’s CEO also touched on one of the most buzzed about topics at CES – 3-D stereoscopic content – and said that creating 3-D content requires a “ton of computing power.” Powerful microprocessors will play a central role in the transition to 3-D content creation. Otellini also said there are select powerful PCs available today that are expanding 3-D content creation from Hollywood studios to living rooms. To prove his point, he demonstrated how an individual could do real-time creation and editing of a 3-D video with the horsepower of an Intel® Core™ i7 processor-based PC.

This morning Intel launched several PC platform products including more than 25 all new 2010 Intel® Core™ processors, wireless adapters and related chipsets for laptops, desktop PCs and embedded devices. These new processors deliver Intel’s best media and graphics technologies, including the ability to intelligently adapt, automatically providing an added boost of performance for such demanding applications as HD and 3-D video creation.

Otellini also described how advancements in microprocessor technology will continue to transform how people enjoy 3-D movies and TV in their homes. To prove his point, he showed new ways to visually search for TV shows, Internet access to videos and other applications on a yet-to-be introduced Orange* media set-top box powered by one of Intel’s computer-on-a-chip products. The Intel® Atom™ processor CE4100, which is currently available, is optimized for the next generation of set-top boxes, media players and connected TVs.

“Smartphones truly embody personal computing,” Otellini said. “Wireless connectivity is critical and 3G is great, but it’s not fast enough. 4G technologies like WiMAX are needed to deliver on the promise and potential of these new devices.”

All the Internet connectivity for demonstrations in Otellini’s keynote used the CLEAR* 4G mobile Internet service that has been available in Las Vegas since July. The WiMAX Forum forecasts more than 700 million people covered by WiMAX at the end of 2010.

“Two years ago I showed a suite of futuristic, compute-intensive applications for handheld devices,” Otellini said. “The computing was really done on a desktop PC behind the curtain because handhelds didn’t have the processing capability yet. Two years later, the future is here.”

To prove his point, Otellini showed how multi-tasking capabilities combined with new user interfaces are creating exciting new applications for smartphones today. This included the world’s first demonstration of the LG Electronics* GW990 smartphone to help demonstrate the performance and software compatibility of “Moorestown,” Intel’s next-generation platform for handhelds and smartphones. He also showcased a smartphone reference design from Aava Mobile* and a tablet reference design from OpenPeak*. “Moorestown” is scheduled to launch during the first half of the year with devices coming to market in the second half.

Otellini also described how many machines and applications traditionally not associated with computing are now connecting to the Internet, creating more personal computing experiences at home and out in the world. Examples include infotainment systems for cars, digital interactive signs, shopping kiosks and medical devices. Intel’s Atom processor is making inroads in these and other intelligent devices. Otellini said customers are in process of developing 2,500 different devices and machines powered by the Intel Atom processor including a concept device for managing energy consumption in the home. He also unveiled a digital sign based on an embedded Intel® Core™ i5 processor that brings the data-richness of online shopping to the in-store shopping experience.

More information about the applications demonstrated in the speech and Intel’s news at CES is available at www.intel.com/pressroom/kits/events/ces2010.

“We’re trying to enable a smart-phone-type operating system, but for a two-handed device. If you look at netbooks, they really give you the same user experience that you have on a laptop. But what we think is more meaningful is to be always connected and to have that same experience that you have on a smart phone. There are a number of different companies working on operating systems to utilize that, and we’re working with them.” Steve Mollenkopf, president QCT, Qualcomm

At its most basic that suggests a smartphone-style environment with full-sized input controls and display.  However Mollenkopf’s reference to developing operating systems that are designed to be always-connected and made for netbook-sized hardware is something reasonably new.

So far the alternative OS field has entrants from Intel – in the shape of Moblin – and Google – with Google Chrome OS – then various other smaller participants.  Of them all, Google Chrome OS probably has the most obvious cloud-connected remit, with all of its apps being web-based; however since Mollenkopf fails to name any specific developers (and the Lenovo Smartbook launching well in advance of Chrome OS’ availability), we’re still in the dark as to who exactly the company has been working with.

Phoronix used a Samsung NC10 as their test mule, and then put the various netbook and desktop distros through a number of challenges.  That included H.264 video playback, OpenArena, LZMA compression, 7-Zip compression, IOzone, PostMark, dcraw, Ogg Encoding, FFmpeg and x264 video encoding, some of which you could readily argue might not be the usual netbook fare.

Still, they went on to look at CPU use and battery life, eventually crowning Ubuntu Netbook Remix 9.10 as the best netbook distro thanks to its top runtime and minimal demands on processor and memory.  The test results may not be too surprising, at least in terms of Google Chrome OS, but it’s an interesting read from an open-source OS perspective.

[via NetbookChoice]

The N470 is the 1.83GHz CPU tipped to arrive in March 2010, and follow-up to the N450 expected in early January.  While systems based on the N450 will still be limited to 1GB of RAM, those using the N470 will be permitted to double that, to 2GB of DDR2 memory; Intel have also issued guidelines suggesting a 160GB hard-drive (or 20-32GB SSD) and Moblin as the OS.

However, manufacturers will also be able to choose between Windows XP Home and Windows 7.  Display sizes between 7- and 10.2-inches are permitted, and Intel has told manufacturers to aim their MRSP between $299 and $349.  Frankly, it’s disappointing and somewhat ridiculous.

[via Netbook Choice]

Video demo after the cut

The prototype device uses an custom interface developed by UI specialists Wind River, whom Intel acquired earlier this year.  As for the device itself, that’s Inventec’s X3 “MediaPhone”, first shown at Computex 2009, and tipped for a release in mid-2010.

The whole thing looks surprisingly responsive, and if Intel’s claims about Moorestown pan out then it’ll not only be speedy but boast long battery life, too.  More on Moblin 2.1 here.

Video demo after the cut

While general consumers will be able to buy the Moblin 2.0 netbook, Dell are really aiming it at Linux developers looking for a native platform to code and test on.  More on Moblin 2.0 and what it includes here.

If, however, you already have a spare netbook you fancy turning over to Moblin 2.0, and don’t want to spend $299 on Dell’s preinstalled offering, the company have your back there, too.  There are download links and instructions to the Moblin Installation Image in their wiki, though it’s worth noting that the build has been created with the Mini 10v in mind and may lack drivers and support for other netbooks.

Video demo after the cut

They’re also being sure to highlight Moblin’s support for multitasking, with a switching bar that allows you to quickly flip between applications.  Since it’s all on a smartphone, there’s obviously always-on 3G and voice call functionality, too.

Moblin runs on Intel’s Atom chips, most likely their upcoming Moorestown platform which is expected to arrive in 2010.  The company showed off some reference designs of possible platforms by their hardware partners back in June.

Nicole from Netbook News spotted the variant and shot the hands-on video below.  As far as they can tell, other than the fact that no software comes preloaded the machine is the same as the standard NC10, which means the great keyboard and potential for over seven hours runtime from the standard battery.

Really, it’s just crying out for Moblin, Android or – in a few months time at least – Google Chrome OS, and while Samsung’s upcoming Ion-packing range, the N510, N511 and N508, may refresh the hardware the ND10 is still a solid buy.  Sadly Samsung are unlikely to bring the ND10 over from China to the US or Europe.

[via Liliputing]

NEC will be demonstrating their new WiMAX Moblin software at “Wireless Japan 2009″, a three day exhibition kicking off tomorrow.  Back in June, when Intel revealed five Moorestown based MIDs, two of that number prioritized GPS navigation; with integrated WiMAX, such devices could include far greater internet-based information about destinations, PNDs, and other news, together with VoIP communication.

Notebook computers and other mobile devices will also see support from NEC’s involvement, with Intel expecting integrated WiMAX modules to spread.  Intel recently announced a deal with Nokia which will see Moblin supported by the Finnish company’s HSPA/3G wireless products.

We’re also led to believe that there’s a little altruism in there too, with Intel supposedly hoping to “facilitate the development of an ecosystem which can benefit the industry as a whole and ultimately end-users.”  Whether that’s exactly true or not, the company would certainly benefit from weening Android off of ARM chipsets and onto their own range of Atom CPUs.

Don’t expect to see any of the current range of MIDs sporting official Intel/Google Android builds, however.  According to the leaks, the first fruit of the collaboration won’t be ready until Intel’s Moorestown platform makes its debut, which the company has previously said will take place in 2010. 

[MID in image is actually NVIDIA Tegra based, not Intel]

Intel’s licensing of Nokia HSPA modems will join the chip company’s existing WiMAX and WiFi wireless systems; Intel have already confirmed that they will be transitioning their Centrino brand to more specifically refer to wireless connectivity systems.  Of particular interest is Nokia’s low-power wireless technology, which has obvious implications for Intel’s vision of ULV MID, netbooks and smartphones.

While this may not be the announcement that many were hoping for – a shiny new Nokia MID had been breathlessly mentioned, or perhaps the N900 Internet Tablet - it could have longer-term implications for mobile devices.  Both companies have invested heavily in their respective operating systems, and cross-platform collaboration could be the kick that each needs to edge ahead of Windows XP’s dominance in the entry-level ultraportable space.  We’re keeping our fingers crossed for a surprise hardware unveil during the press conference, but even without it this could be a significant boost to the open-source and ultramobile communities.

Press Release:

Intel and Nokia Announce Strategic Relationship to Shape Next Era of Mobile Computing Innovation

SANTA CLARA, CALIF., and ESPOO, FINLAND, June 23, 2009 – Further uniting the Internet with mobile phones and computers, Intel Corporation and Nokia today announced a long-term relationship to develop a new class of Intel® Architecture-based mobile computing device and chipset architectures which will combine the performance of powerful computers with high-bandwidth mobile broadband communications and ubiquitous Internet connectivity.

To realize this shared vision, both companies are expanding their longstanding relationship to define a new mobile platform beyond today’s smartphones, notebooks and netbooks, enabling the development of a variety of innovative hardware, software and mobile Internet services.

Taking advantage of each company’s expertise as leaders in their respective fields, these future standards-based devices will marry the best features and capabilities of the computing and communications worlds and will transform the user experience, bringing incredible mobile applications and always on, always connected wireless Internet access in a user-friendly pocketable form factor.

The Intel and Nokia effort includes collaboration in several open source mobile Linux software projects. Intel will also acquire a Nokia HSPA/3G modem IP license for use in future products.

The companies expect many innovations to result from this collaboration over time.

“This Intel and Nokia collaboration unites and focuses many of the brightest computing and communications minds in the world, and will ultimately deliver open and standards-based technologies, which history shows drive rapid innovation, adoption and consumer choice,” said Anand Chandrasekher, Intel Corporation senior vice president and general manager, Ultra Mobility Group. “With the convergence of the Internet and mobility as the team’s only barrier, I can only imagine the innovation that will come out of our unique relationship with Nokia. The possibilities are endless.”

“Today’s announcement represents a significant commitment to work together on the future of mobile computing, and we plan to turn our joint research into action,” said Kai Öistämö, Executive Vice President, Devices, Nokia. “We will explore new ideas in designs, materials and displays that will go far beyond devices and services on the market today. This collaboration will be compelling not only for our companies, but also for our industries, our partners and, of course, for consumers.”

Open Source Software Collaboration
The effort also includes technology development and cooperation in several open source software initiatives in order to develop common technologies for use in the Moblin and Maemo platform projects, which will deliver Linux-based operating systems for these future mobile computing devices.

The companies are coordinating their Open Source technology selection and development investments, including alignment on a range of key Open Source technologies for Mobile Computing such as: oFono*, ConnMan*, Mozilla*, X.Org*, BlueZ*, D-BUS*, Tracker*, GStreamer*, PulseAudio*. Collectively, these technologies will provide an open source standards-based means to deliver a wealth of mobile Internet and communication experiences, with rich graphics and multimedia capabilities.

Hosted by the Linux Foundation, Moblin is an optimized open source Linux operating system project that delivers visually rich Internet media experiences on Intel® Atom™ processor-based devices including MIDs, netbooks, nettops, in-vehicle infotainment (IVI), and embedded systems. For more information see www.moblin.org.

Maemo is a Linux operating system, mostly based on open source code and powers mobile computers such as the Nokia N810 Internet Tablet. The Maemo platform has been developed by Nokia in collaboration with many open source projects. For more information see www.maemo.org.

Enabling common technologies across the Moblin and Maemo software environments will help foster the development of compatible applications for these devices – building on the huge number of off-the-shelf PC compatible applications. The open source projects will be governed using the best practices of the open source development model.

Intel to License Nokia’s HSPA/3G Modem Technologies
Building on today’s announcement, Intel and Nokia have signed an agreement that will enable Intel to license Nokia’s HSPA/3G modem technologies with the aim of developing advanced mobile computing solutions that deliver a powerful and flexible computing experience – combining the best-in-class 3GPP modem technology with the high performance and low power consumption of future Intel Architecture-based platforms.

Intel supports multiple mobile broadband standards on its platforms to address the needs of service providers worldwide, and to provide people with an always-connected experience.

The Nokia modem license complements Intel’s broadband wireless technologies and will enable the company to extend chipset solutions incorporating Nokia’s modem technologies across its mobility offerings in the future.

Nokia is continuing to develop its leading modem technology, which includes protocol software and related digital design for the full suite of 3GPP standards through WCDMA/GSM and its evolution, and then licenses the technology to chipset manufacturers to develop and produce chipsets for device manufacturers.

Nokia’s licensable modem technology is the trusted connectivity choice, providing credible and reliable options for the industry based on Nokia wireless modems’ embedded history and experience. The Intel license of Nokia’s modem technologies is another step in executing Nokia’s chipset strategy to create multiple, competitive chipset choices to the industry.

Video demo after the cut

The model you can see is only a prototype at present, but there’s no reason that ASUS couldn’t deliver a Moblin version alongside the Windows XP Eee Keyboard.  Hardware in this case looks to be unchanged, so we’d still expect the same Intel Atom CPU, 1GB of RAM and either 16GB or 32GB of SSD storage.  Wireless HDMI is believed to be an option.

What the video doesn’t show is any media functionality, so it remains to be seen what advantages there Moblin may bring over the Microsoft OS.  ASUS have repeatedly assured us that the Eee Keyboard will launch this month, priced at around $400.

[via NetbookNews.de]

Live Quanta M1 MID image and video demo after the cut

The smallest of the five devices is the CCI Compact Handheld, with a 3-inch touchscreen, full internet access and phone.  After that, the mid-range seems to hover around the 4-inch mark, with the EB MID Reference and the Aava Mobile Smartphone both hitting that exactly, while Quanta’s M1, shown above, is slightly bigger at 4.3-inches.  MID Moves‘ Steve shot the M1 video below.

Unlike the others, the M1 manages to squeeze in a hardware keyboard, seemingly using a sliding screen portion similar to the T-Mobile Sidekick.  According to Intel, all of the devices are highly connected and have custom UI’s on top of Moblin v.2.  They’ll also support “Mobile Augmented Reality”, which we’re hoping to see a demo of later.  Moorestown isn’t expected until 2010.

Video overview after the cut (Updated with new video)

Full specifications of the device are unclear, but according to Intel’s launch (which you can see in the video below) there’ll be pinch-zoom functionality, which suggests a capacitive rather than resistive touchscreen.  There’s also a camera on the back, which looks to have a flash.

Much of Moorestown’s hardware will be the same as is used in netbooks; what will differentiate the two will be the UI, and Intel are working on a “ground up” new design.  Moorestown is expected in 2010, so don’t expect to see a MID-phone like this until well into next year.

Video demo after the cut

The OS, in fact, runs Linpus Lite Moblin V2, a fork in the roadmap thanks to Linpus’ ongoing work with Intel’s open-source OS team.  Full details of the platform won’t be revealed until Computex next week, but we’re hoping for some of the flexibility of Linpus and the UI ease-of-use of Moblin.

Otherwise this looks to be a pretty standard netbook, even 3G is becoming more common, and without a price tag it’s hard to figure exactly how it will fit into the established netbook market.  Foxconn are presumably hoping that the distinctive OS will give the SZ901 an edge.

Video demo after the cut

There’s also a new media player, with support for UPnP streaming and USB devices, a new connection manager now with GUI, and the promise of further social networking integration.  Many of the changes take advantage of the new Clutter animation framework, together with other open-source graphics systems.

The free download is a 321MB file available here; one thing to note is that it apparently only supports wired networking at present, not WiFi, though it’s unclear if this is only on certain systems or all hardware.  It also seems to be targeting netbooks/nettops only, rather than MIDs, which is likely to be a disappointment to ultramobile-aficionados.

Update: Intel tell us that it’s only the HP Mini 1120NR which has problems with WiFi and Moblin v2.0; other netbooks they’ve tested it with (Acer Aspire One, ASUS Eee PC 901, 1000H, Dell Mini 9, MSI Wind, Lenovo S10, Samsung NC10, HP Mini 1010) have WiFi working fine.  If you have a 1120NR, for the moment you’ll be stuck with wired networking only.

That interest could be enough to hold off the tide of ARM-based rival devices that have begun to impinge on netbooks, MIDs and other mobile devices running Atom processors.  Intel will remain a strong component of future Moblin development, not least because it has poached top coders from rival Linux organizations to work on the platform.

What remains to be seen is whether Intel will stand in the way of developers looking to open up Moblin’s code for non-Intel processors.  That would broaden the OS’ appeal, certainly, but perhaps at the cost of Atom sales.  Time will tell whether Intel are prioritizing establishing Moblin as its own brand or simply as a route for more Atom growth.

[via UMPC Portal]

Q1. Can you give our readers some background of Xfce, perhaps explain a little of what it does, and your involvement with the project?

Xfce is what you’d call a desktop environment, it includes not only the usual applications you would expect from a desktop, ie a window manager, a panel, a file manager, etc. but also an infrastructure such as a settings mechanism now based on DBUS and all the development libraries that help to write applications.

Like GNOME, Xfce is based on the gtk+ toolkit but it does not use gconf nor other gnome libs, except libwnck (that now replaces the equivalent library that we had in Xfce up to 4.4) or gstreamer (for the volume control applet).

Xfce is not new, I started the project in late 1996, before GNOME or gtk+ even existed, and the project has evolved from a single man project to the fairly large project that it is now, with several core developers and a large base of contributors and users.

Q2. Do you track how many distros are using Xfce as their default window manager, and also how many distros bundle it?

I do not really keep count of the distributions use Xfce as their default desktop (and that’s not just Linux, there are also some Opensolaris variants and BSD ones too), but we list the main ones on the web site. Actually, thanks to the standardization efforts introduced by the freedesktop.org, you can use Xfce with other different components, for example some distributions replace the window manager that comes with Xfce with Compiz, or the panel with cairo dock or some other panel.

It is important to remember that Xfce is not a window manager, it obviously includes a window manager, but it’s a lot more than that (even if the window manager remains one of the core components and at the heart of the global user experience), and each component can be replaced by another compatible component from another project, so Xfce or parts of Xfce can be found in many different distributions.

Q3. With netbooks taking the market by storm, Intel has taken it upon itself to develop a new distro called Moblin, and it’s utilizing Xfce as its default Window Manager. What do you think about Intel’s move, how do you think it could affect Linux take-up by non-technical users, and do you think it will help Xfce adoption?

I believe Intel’s support of Linux and free software is very important, not only the Moblin project but also all the code that is being developed openly by Intel, like Powertop, the Intel drivers for Xorg, WiFi, etc.

I think it’s definitely a great contribution to free software. As for Linux taking up on non technical users, it’s a lot more complex than just ease of use. People are so used to Windows, they’ve been using Windows for so long that they don’t realize that Windows is not easier than Linux (nobody is born knowing Windows, there’s always a learning curve and learning Windows is no easier than learning Mac OS pr Linux). I believe the user interfaces (GNOME, KDE, Xfce, whatever) that come with Linux are much more versatile, easy to use and more productive than what Windows offers, but they are different and not everybody feels confident when it’s different.

Learning a new interface, a new system, requires an effort, and Linux has to provide something that’s worth that effort. It could be because it’s cheaper (but I don’t think this is sustainable in the long run) or because it’s faster, or because it looks better, or it’s easier, or more productive, etc. Netbook vendors have started opening the road, but I feel frustrated because when I look at what is offered today, I think it’s too little, it’s either a locked down version or just a plain Linux distributions. What I’d expect would be in between, a full featured, configurable and attractive desktop yet customized for the hardware of the Netbook. That’s somehow what I achieved after tweaking the default installation of my Acer Aspire One to get rid of the limitations imposed by the default installation.

Q4. You’ve mentioned before that Xfce team was not involved with Moblin; are the Xfce team open to working together with Intel for better implementation of Xfce in the Moblin OS?

Of course we are open to work with Intel if they feel that’s needed! What I said is that myself, as a developer of Xfce, I am not involved with the Moblin project so I cannot comment on the Moblin project itself.

But we received interesting patches from Intel developers, including patches to improve the start up time of the session. In the future, for example, I’d be great to use some of Intel technologies, such as an optional Clutter backend for the compositor embedded in the Xfce window manager.

Q5. Aside from being a light window manager, why do you think netbooks would benefit from Xfce as their default window manager?

Start-up time is also something considering, and Intel has demoed that it was possible to boot Linux, and a full Xfce desktop in less than 5 seconds. That’s impressive.  [See here for more on the 5 second boot demo]

Q6. According to manufacturers, the vast majority of netbook buyers are choosing Windows XP over Linux, despite price advantages to open- source. Why do you think that is, and what might you do to turn the tide?

That’s a corollary of Q3, people want XP because they know XP. Even non technical users know how to deal with XP, and if not, they know someone who can help. And when it does not work, they just reinstall the system.

The advantage of Open Source is not the price, it’s its open nature. Knowledge is freedom and Open Source is all about freedom, no closed source alternative can match that. But this not something so obvious when you’re new to Open Source.

The challenge is to demonstrate the advantage of that freedom to end users, and to the hardware vendors. You cannot grab Linux, put it on a device and expect people to just adopt it like that, that requires a lot of commitment and I would like to see more and clearer commitment from hardware vendors. Again, in this regard, Intel is showing the way.

Q7. What can we expect from the Xfce team in 2009? Any particular milestones you’d like to see on the Xfce roadmap?

Xfce 4.6, definitely. It’s release is imminent now! [4.6 has now been released]

Q8. My personal favorite Xfce application (sub-project) is Midori (I’ve used it since 0.0.1x release). What is your favorite sub-project in Xfce?

All of the goodies that you find in goodies.xfce.org, really, are important, it’s what makes the Xfce more enjoyable to use. I don’t really have any favourite.

Q9. Looking more generally at netbooks, and the technology currently being developed by not only Intel with the Atom, but VIA’s Nano, NVIDIA’s Ion and AMD’s Neo, where do you see the segment evolving?

Hard to tell, I would not consider myself as an expert in the area. The limit between the netbooks and the entry level laptops is some kind of a gray area, but CPU power or 3D capabilities is not what I expect the most from a netbook.

What I expect from a netbook is battery life, light weight and small form-factor. I do not care much about power, I have another very powerful 17-inch laptop for that. And I am already impressed by what the netbook can do today, so I believe that running after performance for netbooks is not the way to go (unless you want to run the latest Windows on them, but I am not interested in that either), we’ve been there with desktops and laptops already, so I think it’s wrong to look at netbooks from that point of view.

What I really miss in today’s netbook is battery life, 2 hours of battery life for my current netbook is way under my expectations.

Q10. Google’s Android platform has brought open-source software into the spotlight with a mainstream audience, and the company has been open about their plans to put the OS into many devices, not just cellphones. How do you think Android might affect the Linux ecosystem, and have you or the rest of the team considered developing for the platform?

No, admittedly, I am not much interested in Android yet. The code might be released under an open source license, but the development of Android seems to be pretty centralized. In my opinion, there is difference between a project like Moblin made of existing open source projects, each one with its existing community of developers, and Android that is Google’s own project released under an Open Source license. That’s the challenge for Android, build its own community of Open Source developers.

Many thanks to Olivier for taking the time to answer our questions.  You can find out more about Xfce at the official site here.