IBM Develops Wrist Watch Running Linux

N E W   Y O R K, Aug 7 -- IBM announced today that researchers are testing the Linux operating system on a prototype wristwatch device in an attempt to prove that Linux can be used as the basic software on even the smallest devices.

“Designed to communicate wirelessly with PCs, cell phonesand other wireless-enabled devices, the ‘smart watch’ will havethe ability to view condensed e-mail messages and directlyreceive pager-like messages,” IBM said in a statement.

However, IBM does not have plans to commercialize the Linuxwatch itself, a spokeswoman said.

Linux Can

“This is just a research prototype,” said Takako Yamakura.“Some say Linux cannot be scaled down. This is just to showLinux is capable of doing this.”

The Linux operating system is seen as an alternative toMicrosoft Corp.’s Windows operating system, and is popular withprogrammers for its open source code, which allows programmersto develop and tinker with programs.

“Several benefits accrue from the use of Linux in smallpervasive devices,” IBM said in the statement. “Theavailability of source code and a well-understood applicationprogramming environment makes it easy for students, researchers,and software companies to add new features and developapplications.”

Linux, which was developed by Finnish programmer LinusTorvalds, is used for many basic functions of Web sites, but isnot yet considered mature enough for heavier business tasks. IBMhas been working to develop the system for everything from thewrist watch to supercomputers.

“With Linux rapidly becoming an industry standard, it’simportant that developers be able to create new applicationsacross all platforms, including pervasive devices, and theintent of IBM’s research is to further that work,” IBM said.