Details of Linux for set-top boxes revealed

THE TV LINUX ALLIANCE has released more details of the version of Linux it is developing to run on set top boxes.

The Alliance announced the availability of its specification of the OS for the devices two weeks ago and is now engaged in hawking it around interested parties.

The specification, version 0.8, says the Alliance, defines a standardized set of programming interfaces to promote the development of Linux-based set-top applications. This specification version provides developers with basic tuner level and device definitions, and standardized application programming interface (API) functions for those devices.

A number of major players are involved in the TV Linux Alliance including ATI, Broadcom, Motorola, STMicroelectronics, Sun Microsystems, and TiVo.

In a statement, chairman of the alliance, Dennis Thompson, said: "This specification is a long awaited solution that will accelerate the availability of new content and services by reducing today's porting and integration challenges."

It seems, however, that to get hold of the full spec and the APIs you'll have to join the Alliance at something like $2000 a shot. Open sauce, indeed. The TV Linux Alliance website is here. µ