InfoWorld: OS options expand for handhelds

"In an effort to spur the development of Linux for handheld computers, Houston-based Compaq Computer will make a version of the operating system for its recently released iPaq handheld computers available to software developers through the company's new Open Handheld Program."

"Compaq's release of Linux for the iPaq will allow researchers and developers to write new applications for handheld computers and other intelligent appliances, said Nora Hahn, a Compaq spokeswoman. The idea is to try to encourage use of Linux as a common operating system and development tool for handheld computers."

"The iPaq, released in April, will continue to use the Windows CE operating system commercially, however. The Palm and Microsoft Windows CE operating systems hold the small device market now, but Linux "may become a second platform in the future," Hahn said. "Customers are pretty focused on a Windows environment," she said."

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