Next-generation smartphones will push the boundaries of hardware and software further than ever. Pictured is a concept called Seabird developed by Mozilla Concept Labs that beams its own keyboard
Intel and Samsung are to lead the development of a new open-source mobile operating system called Tizen, based on Linux. It will be the successor to previous collaborations such as Maemo, Moblin and MeeGo and could help mobile makers steer clear of the current spate of Android patent battles.
The new Tizen OS will be a combination of MeeGo and LiMo and it could emerge as serious competition to Android.
The Tizen project, which will be hosted by the Linux Foundation, is aiming to have the initial release of the new OS available in the first quarter of 2012 and the first phones using the new OS could make an appearance in mid-2012.
Also involved is the LiMo Foundation which includes Panasonic Mobile, Casio, NTT, DoCoMo, NEC, Telefonica and Vodafone.
The new OS will emphasise HTML5 apps and will support smartphones, tablet computers, interactive TVs and in-vehicle infotainment.
