Splashtop Embedded Linux Got GPLed

DeviceVM, the developing company of Splashtop software that features the embedded Linux "Fast Boot" products like the one on the Asus P5E3 Deluxe WiFi-AP@n, has released the source code of its application under GPL.

Splashtop is loaded onto a hard-wired USB device in the computer which offers the possibility to choose from booting into the main operating system or to load the Splashtop client, which is equipped for the moment with Skype and Firefox. DeviceVM is hoping that the community will start expanding Splashtop, now that it is GPLed and it's beginning to become more popular.

Phoenix, one of the largest BIOS producing companies, has launched the embedded Hyperspace application that is somewhat similar to "Fast Booting OS" (Splashtop). DeviceVM wants to expand their software by including some more applications in it like an instant messenger, a music player etc. These applications will be available at first as a Beta program, which can be downloaded from the company's website.

The Asus P5E3 Deluxe WiFi AP@n motherboard on which Splashtop was included is very expensive ($360), and a cheaper version won't be created.

Splashtop was launched on 10th October this year, with the aim to improve the consumer's computing experience by deploying it on the PCs. It lets users read e-mails, chat with friends or even surf the Internet as soon as they turn on their PC.

Mark Lee, CEO and co-founder of DeviceVM said when Splashtop was launched: "We want to help consumers cut down on the time between the moment they press the power button and the moment they get online, begin playing media files, and start using their favorite applications. While the typical
operating system takes minutes to fully load, Splashtop enables users to check for new e-mail, send an instant message to a friend, and even watch a YouTube video in the same amount of time."