If you're wondering what kind of person uses Linux, take a look in the mirror.

The traits that made the open-source software a favorite of hard-core techies is bringing it to all sorts of gadgets used by regular folks.

Hewlett-Packard, Sony, Motorola, Volvo and other big manufacturers are using Linux for everything from TV sets to mobile phones to autos.

"Linux has the potential to become the dominant platform," said Trolltech Chief Executive Haarvard Nord. "The technology is ready."

Nord's Palo Alto, Calif., company sells Qtopia. The platform makes it easier to build Linux-based gadgets.

More than 50 companies are already using Qtopia in their devices, including 20 mobile phones. Other Linux firms such as MontaVista Software and Wind River Systems report similar gains.

Linux is no newcomer to consumer technology. TiVo's line of digital video recorders has used it from day one. So have set-top cable boxes from Motorola and Panasonic. Same for Sony's PlayStation 2.

Now Linux is showing up in lots of other devices: TVs, remote controls, home theater systems and cars.

"It's a great opportunity," said Wind River CEO Ken Klein, whose company sells tools for putting Linux software on all kinds of hardware.

For years, designers preferred to write their own software for devices. "Now that's moving to Linux," he said.
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Source : Yahoo News