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As a developer, albiet a non-Linux/LAMP dev, the open-sourcing of WebOS could go bad.
Android has the backing of Google, and Google "sells"/convinces OEMs to adopt Android (for obvious reasons; advertising). WebOS does not have that support base anymore, or a major organization promoting it.
It will take a sizable grass-roots effort to evangelize the platform. The porters/modders/etc... will not be able to match Google's or Microsoft's push at the OEM level. That would leave end-users as the only attainable audience (it can be done.... look at Apple in 1997, which primarily sells to end users).
And there in lies the quagmire .... end users have never embraced Linux.
1. WebOS needs to be ported over for specific use on existing and future Android tablets.
2. The process of 'doctoring' the Android devices needs to be easy, with the appropriate measures to not brick the device, and recovery methods. (who would be liable if someone bricks their device trying to install an unauthorized OS?)
3. Support. This will be crucial. Forums such as these are invaluable.
4.APIs and apps. more.
Unfortunately, I am pessimistic on the prospects and chances for success. Open-sourcing WebOS essentially means that WebOS now has no corporate backing in the marketplace, not Palm and not HP. WebOS has been put out to pasture, with no financial incentive for anyone to take ownership and responsibility for it's success. I hope i am proved wrong
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