Moblin is an open source project that provides an optimized Linux platform for the next generation of mobile devices including netbooks, mobile Internet devices (MIDs), in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) systems, and other embedded devices. The central piece of the architecture is an independent layer that provides one uniform way to develop such devices. Underneath the Moblin Core sits the Linux kernel and device drivers specific to the hardware platform, and above the Moblin Core are the specific user interface and user interaction model for the target device. It is optimized for Intel® Atom™ Processor-based devices.

Moblin v2.1 for Intel Atom processor-based netbooks and nettops release includes significant feature additions and improvements including enhanced browser functionality and plug-in support, UI enhancements, support for 3G data connections, Bluetooth* device management, input method support for localized languages, integrated application installer for the Moblin Garage, performance and stability improvements, and additional overall help and documentation.

In addition to the various new features, this new version of Moblin includes several hundred bug fixes and incorporates feedback from users and the developer community. Much polish and performance improvement was accomplished within this release from the Moblin developers. New features in Moblin v2.1 for netbooks and nettops include:

• Internet Browser: the new internet browser application exceeds the previous browser performance and adds full support for features such as plug-in support and add-ons.
• 3G Data Support: support for 3G data connections using the Ericsson* MBM 3G modems. Support for additional 3G modems is planned for future releases.
• Application Installer Integration: the Moblin Application Installer is integrated and provides a logically categorized list of applications that you can choose to install: the selection of applications that appears within the Moblin Application Installer comes from the Moblin Garage.
• Clutter 1.0: this is the Moblin animation framework.
• Bluetooth Device Support: bluetooth device discovery and pairing is now supported via a new panel in the toolbar, which supports Bluetooth audio devices, input devices (keyboards, mice), OBEX file transfer, and using a Bluetooth phone as a 3G modem.
• Connection Manager: there are significant modifications particularly in the areas of performance and reliability. The new version of ConnMan now supports Ethernet, WiFi, WiMAX, and 3G.
• Nettop Support: UI scaling is provided for a wide range of nettop resolutions, including the ability to show more information in the Myzone panel based on the available screen space.
• Improvements to Instant Messaging: improvements have been included for Instant Messaging account setup, integration within the connection manager, and support for transparent connection to your friends on your local network.
• Input Method Support: this is now included across the system.
• Localization: Moblin is currently localized in the following languages (English, Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, French, German, Swedish, Finnish, Korean, Japanese, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional). There is also a community translation project where Moblin is translated to additional languages by the community.

Download the Moblin v2.1 netbook and nettop image and experience the release for yourself, or watch the Moblin overview video, or take a look at the screen shots.