GNU/Linux is alive and well and running on the Zaurus. OpenZaurus is a fully Free Software distribution for Sharp's Linux-based Sharp Zaurus line that offers more features, more software, and more up-to-date features than the default system.
The OpenZaurus project has released OpenZaurus 3.2. OpenZaurus is an alternative GNU/Linux distribution for selected handhelds, primarily the Sharp Zaurus SL-5000d and SL-5500. It replaces the stock ROM image on Zaurus and includes updated versions of most software, while still based on the same core applications.
OpenZaurus is based on the Opie graphical environment, a Free Software version of the Qtopia environment used on the default Zaurus ROM image. It also offers PicoGUI, another graphical system designed specifically for low-power handhelds, as an optional interface. It uses the same kernel version as the default Zaurus for backward compatibility, version 2.4.6, with some extra patches and tweaks. Qtopia and Opie are both based on the Qt development system, a cross-platform C++-based application framework used for many commercial projects and as the bases of the widely-popular K Desktop Environment for GNU/Linux systems.
 | OpenZaurus has a number of features not found in the default ROM
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OpenZaurus 3.2 includes many bug fixes and patches, as well as new versions of the core applications and several new applications. Rotation is now supported in all applications on-the-fly with no restart needed. There is a new Crystal icon set, similar to the default theme in KDE 3.1, transparency, and improved compatibility with applications designed for the default Sharp ROM. The sound driver has been beefed up, and includes some "because we can" features. For example, the Zaurus; piezo-electric speaker is now treated as a full Digital Signal Processor, so advanced sounds such as MP3 files can be played through the built-in speaker. The audio quality is rather poor, but it's a fun idea.
OpenZaurus is organized in the same manner as the Debian GNU/Linux distribution for the desktop. That is, the base install is very small with few applications. There is an online "feed" with the complete distribution, including a vast collection of applications all available free of charge under the GNU General Public License. An included application manager program lets users connect to the feed over the Internet and install whatever software they want directly, and the system will also take care of any additional required libraries automatically.
OpenZaurus is available now from the OpenZaurus project web site. It is a free download, and the source code is available under the GNU General Public License.
Additional screen shots of OpenZaurus 3.2 are available on the following pages.
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