Open Source projects and products that have changed the face of technology design
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Open Source Projects That Made It Big

Article by Allen Tan (1,485 pts )
Published on Jul 28, 2008
The general perception of open source collaborative works is that they're forever relegated as hobby garage projects. But, as this article will show, there are many projects that have gained commercial recognition and significance.
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1. Openmoko Phone

The OpenMoko phone, developed from all open-source software and hardware, is designed ground-up to allow modding and hacking. Despite the obvious attraction to tech enthusiasts, the phone is intended for the less tech-savvy consumer by being simple and easy to use. At a cost of $399, it boasts a 400 Mhz processor, 2.8 inch touch-screen, Wifi, GPS, Bluetooth, accelerometers, 128 Mb SDRAM and 256 Mb of internal

storage. The device is meant to be adaptable and versatile, with the ability to have its firmware updated regularly through online updates.

2. Motorola Phones

This one may seem odd, but the surprising thing about Motorola phones is that the majority of them run on Linux! That's right, Motorola has a close relationship with the mobile Linux community, providing SDKs and development resources to programmers and in return, having their phones run on open source operating systems.

Linux is actively competing against stiff competitors, of course - Microsoft, Symbian, and Palm which all have their own mobile operating systems that they are trying to promote.

3. XML

As an open-standard language, XML was developed to provide more flexibility to web markup languages. With CSS, XML has radically altered the way web pages are designed and the way they look.

But beyond that, XML is being used for more than just web development. The organic and flexible nature of the language allows it to be used in many other ways, from storing application settings, to even rudimentary scripting and modding capabilities for games.

4. GP32 Handheld Game Console

Most handheld game consoles are closed source - developers have to apply for licenses and pass screening processes - it's a way for the console companies to retain control and make a profit. The GP32, however, is designed specifically for hackers to mess around with. It's completely open source for developers.

Since then, the manufacturer has released several revisions, such as the GP2X handheld.

5. Yellow Dog Linux

Yellow Dog is a Linux distro available for the Playstation 3. It supports software development for GCC (allowing to languages such as Java, C++, and so to be used). Standard text and code editors are available.

It comes prebundled with free open source software, including Pidgin, OpenOffice, and other standard office applications.

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