IBM develops wristwatch running Linux

NEW YORK, Aug 7 (Reuters) - International Business Machines Corp. said on

Monday that its 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 of devices.

"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, IBM does not have plans to commercialize the Linux watch itself, a

spokeswoman said.

"This is just research prototype," said 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 Corp.'s

Windows operating system, and is popular with programmers for its open source

code, which allows programmers to develop and tinker with programs.

"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's 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.

(C) Reuters Limited 2000.