LG today made an open version of the webOS platform available to developers and the public. Anyone can download webOS Open Source Edition from LG’s web site and use the the code for whatever they wish.
WebOS was originally developed by Palm for smartphones and later cultivated by HP before being purchased by LG. LG chiefly uses the platform to power its connected devices, such as television sets and refrigerators.
LG said developers can grab the source code as well as tools and guides. Forums are available online to help developers become more familiar with webOS and all its capabilities. The platform is based on Linux and supports open web standards such as HTML5 and CSS3, so it should be fairly easy to work with.
LG is also working with the Korean government to encourage entrepreneurs and startups to make use of the operating system. LG will solicit webOS-based business proposals and provide logistical and technical support to help startups commercialize webOS products.
“As we move from an app-based environment to a web-based one, we believe the true potential of webOS has yet to be seen,” concluded LG.
