LG has acquired the versatile webOS operating system from Hewlett Packard. The OS – originally developed by Palm – will be used to power LG’s upcoming lineup of Smart TV’s.
The deal includes the source code, documentation, a license to all the associated patents and the remaining user experience team.
Interestingly enough, webOS is expected to become a “core technology of LG” that will ultimately turn up in additional electronic items, including appliances.
“The open and transparent webOS technology offers a compelling user experience that, when combined with our own technology, will pave the way for future innovations using the latest Web technologies,” said LG CTO Skott Ahn.
Meanwhile, HP confirmed that LG would be assuming “stewardship” of Open WebOS and Enyo, while HP will retain ownership of all of Palm’s cloud computing assets, including source code, talent, infrastructure and contracts.
“WebOS and its associated community deliver market leading platforms for the next generation of connected devices. We are constantly looking for opportunities to accelerate the delivery of this platform from the community,” said Bill Veghte, HP’s COO.
“LG’s track record of innovation and broad distribution provides this opportunity, while enabling HP to accelerate our Cloud efforts.”
