With Intel now focused on Tizen, a new Linux effort with Samsung and the Limo Foundation and the N9 being the last MeeGo handset being produced by Nokia there comes some rather interesting news that Nokia is working on a new Linux-based OS called Meltemi. This OS is apparently aimed for use on low-end devices rather than smartphones.
Feature phones are a huge part of Nokia’s success and currently make up about 47 percent of the company’s sales.
Nokia has announced plans to close a feature phone-making facility in Romania, laying off 2,200 workers. They will be increasing production in Asia in order to be closer to the action. The question is: Why would Nokia begin to work on a new OS for its low-end devices, rather than continue with its proprietary S40 platform? Its clear that demand for smarter, touchscreen devices, even among low-end users, is driving phones makers to be more innovative with operating systems. Samsung, has understood that and has been doing some impressive work on its own Linux-based Bada platform.
Nokia has not officially announced anything about Meltemi, but today is not the first time that we have heard the name.
The Register mentioned Meltemi back in April, but confusingly described it as Nokia’s Windows Phone development. However, at the time, the Register also noted, referencing an internal memo, that MeeGo developers would have opportunities within Meltemi, which would make sense if this, like MeeGo before it, is Linux-based.
Via WSJ
