HP releases large chunks of webOS code

HP has once again released code for the webOS operating system under an open source license. The released Community Edition of webOS is aimed at makers of custom software for the TouchPad tablet.

The so-called Community Edition, which has been given version number 3.0.5, is not a full open source version of webOS, but does contain large parts of the code. The source code should make it easier especially for developers of custom ROMs for the HP TouchPad to make adjustments to the operating system. The software is not suitable for other hardware that runs on webOS.

The manufacturer hopes that developers will work with the software to improve functionality in the operating system. For example, with the Community Edition it is possible to adjust notifications or modify the card view and launcher.

In September, HP will release Open webOS 1.0, which is not only suitable for the TouchPad tablet, but can also be used for other hardware. This release should mark the first full open source version of webOS. HP previously released other parts of the webOS code, including the Enyo application framework. Also the kernel software of the TouchPad has already been published under an open source license.