HP commits to release open source WebOS by September

HP commits to release open source WebOS by September
The HP TouchPad failed but other manufacturers will get the chance to redeem WebOS

HP's WebOS will begin life as an open source operating system in September 2012 after the company committed to a release time frame.

The operating system, developed and formerly owned by Palm, was given a stay of execution last month when HP decided to offer the software up to the open source community rather than ditch the division.

The source code will be released in September, but for now developers can get cracking on building apps with today's launch of the Enyo 2.0 tool.

Enyo 2.0 enables developers to create apps for WebOS, which will also work for Android, iOS and web browsers like Firefox and Google Chrome.

Decisive step forward

"HP is bringing the innovation of the webOS platform to the open source community," said Bill Veghte, HP's executive vice president and chief strategy officer.

"This is a decisive step toward meeting our goal of accelerating the platform's development and ensuring that its benefits will be delivered to the entire ecosystem of web applications."

In today's announcement HP has laid out the timescale for the next nine months which will result in the launch of a full WebOS course code in September.

The company originally bought WebOS from Palm in April 2010 for $1.2 billion but its grand plans to enter the smartphone and tablet business ended in failure when the Pre 3 and TouchPad floundered badly.

Via: Engadget

Chris Smith

A technology journalist, writer and videographer of many magazines and websites including T3, Gadget Magazine and TechRadar.com. He specializes in applications for smartphones, tablets and handheld devices, with bylines also at The Guardian, WIRED, Trusted Reviews and Wareable. Chris is also the podcast host for The Liverpool Way. As well as tech and football, Chris is a pop-punk fan and enjoys the art of wrasslin'.