Intel and Nokia merge software platforms

Global tech giants Intel Corporation and Nokia, yesterday announced that they have merged their software platforms, Moblin and Maemo respectively, to create MeeGo, a Linux-based software platform that supports multiple hardware architectures and accelerates industry innovation in the convergence of computing and communications.

MeeGo is designed for a broad range of devices, from pocketable mobile computers, netbooks, tablets, mediaphones to connected TVs and in-vehicle infotainment systems. The platform opens up to a wealth of new Internet-based applications, creating further demand of new exciting types of devices.

“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.

MeeGo-based devices from Nokia and other manufacturers are expected to be launched later this year. The companies hope that MeeGo would be adopted widely by global device manufacturers, network operators, semiconductor companies, software vendors and developers.

“Through open innovation, MeeGo will create an ecosystem that draws 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”, added the Nokia official.

Intel president, Paul Otellini, welcomed the new platform, saying it would provide seamless communication between computing devices from the home, auto, office or one’s pocket.

MeeGo offers the Qt application development environment and builds on the capabilities of 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 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 have been strategically collaborating since June 2009.