For the past while now it's been common knowledge in the techy community that RIM hasn't been doing well in the mobile competition. I'm referring to that of smartphones and tablets, among other devices. They've been experiencing some recent software problems and loosing market share in those areas.
I think committing to Open Source will allow for some new innovation. Personally I think this is a good idea. It can help them expand, save money, and regain their footing in a competitive sense. Also, it's not like Open Source is a new concept when compared to other operating systems.
However, based on my sources, I feel like RIM may not be making their entire operating system able to support open source, rather just parts of it. The articles mention posted source code to the Software Development Kit (SDK), and Application Programming Interface (API) to their Operating Systems (OS), but not the OS itself.
This makes me feel the extent of their Open Source commitment is in order to write code for their devices faster, and save on expenses without giving away their actual products.
I'd be intrested to hear other people's oipinions on the topic. Feel free to comment/post if you agrree/disagree, or just want to rant.
'Til next post.
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"A mediocre idea that generates enthusiasm will go further than a great idea that inspires no one." - Mary Kay Ash
