A new Linux Phone Standards Forum (LiPS) has been founded to promote mass market adoption of Linux telephony terminals through standardization, interoperability testing and market education. The founding members include Cellon, France Telecom, FTM Labs, Huawei, Jaluna, Mizi, Open Plug and PalmSource.
LiPS will support device manufacturers and operators in bringing to market Linux-based devices at lower cost (due to lower deployment costs through standardization), while facilitating the programming and development process for software and silicon vendors.
The Forum said plans to work with other organizations such as the OMTP and OMA to identify requirements of distinct device categories including smartphones, feature phones, fixed-line, or converged devices. For each of these categories, or profiles, LiPS will define standard API’s that support relevant applications and services as well as a certification process for technology providers.
In keeping with the open source philosophy, LiPS will cooperate with other dedicated Linux groups that address aspects of Linux telephony outside the scope of the Forum’s work. Through collaboration and sharing of resources and ideas with these additional industry bodies, LiPS will ensure convergence of standards, meaning earlier availability of findings and more interoperability within the Linux community.
http://www.lipsforum.org
