IBM said on Monday that researchers are running the Linux operating system on a prototype wristwatch device, in a research test designed to show that Linux can be used as the basic software on the smallest gadgets.
"Designed to communicate wirelessly with PCs, cell phones and other wireless-enabled devices, the `smart watch` will have the ability to view condensed email messages and directly receive pager-like messages," IBM said in a statement.
However, adults wanting a Dick Tracy-style wrist gadget will be disappointed. IBM does not have plans to commercialise the Linux watch itself, said Nick Bowen, IBM`s director of computing utilities.
"Our view is more of an enterprise view than a consumer gadget view," he said.
"This is just research prototype," said IBM spokeswoman Takako Yamakura. "Some say Linux cannot be scaled down. This is just to show Linux is capable of doing this."
The Linux operating system is seen as an alternative to Microsoft`s Windows operating system, and is especially popular with programmers for its open source code, which allows programmers to develop and tinker with programs.
Bowen said the watch, which weighs about 1.5 ounces, demonstrates that Linux could be used in some of the smallest devices in the future, perhaps in medical sensors on patients, location awareness or even banking.
"Several benefits accrue from the use of Linux in small pervasive devices," IBM said in the statement. "The availability of source code and a well-understood application programming environment makes it easy for students, researchers, and software companies to add new features and develop applications."
Linux, which was developed by Finnish programmer Linus Torvalds, is used for many basic functions of Web sites, but is not yet considered mature enough for heavier business tasks. IBM has been working to develop the system for everything from the wristwatch to supercomputers.
"With Linux rapidly becoming an industry standard, it is important that developers be able to create new applications across all platforms, including pervasive devices, and the intent of IBM`s research is to further that work," IBM said.
IBM plans to demonstrate the watch at Linux World in San Jose, California next week.
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