Hewlett-Packard will buy Linux-based quick-boot OS and client virtualization assets from Phoenix Technologies for US$12 million, Phoenix said on Thursday.
HP will buy HyperSpace, a watered-down version of the Linux OS that allows users to surf the Web, view digital images or check e-mail just a few seconds after switching on a PC. The OS works on netbooks, laptops and desktops. Phoenix has offered HyperSpace as an option to Microsoft’s Windows OS, which could take 30 seconds or more to boot.
The transaction is expected to close this month, Phoenix said. HP will also buy the assets surrounding HyperCore, an embedded hypervisor that allows HyperSpace to run certain core services along with the Windows OS.
This acquisition should add some bulk to HP’s already strong Linux assets. In late April, HP announced plans to acquire smartphone and mobile software company Palm for $1.2 billion. HP said it would add Palm’s WebOS software platform to Internet-connected mobile devices such as printers and tablets. WebOS is built on top of the Linux kernel with Palm’s proprietary software.
HP already offers quick-boot software called QuickWeb in its Mini netbooks and Pavilion laptops. The company didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
Phoenix is well-known as a BIOS provider, and the company’s focus will continue in that direction, Phoenix said.
