Linux Tablet Computers and PDAs as eBook Readers

This article about using Microsoft Tablet PC OS tablet computer (Source: eBook Culture) got me looking around for non-Microsoft powered tablets.

I note the desktop Linux folks at Lycoris have developed a Linux based Desktop Tablet Edition. This shows there is hope for a portable ebook reading device that does not lock the consumer into Microsoft's OS. Now, is there a Linux based ebook reader that will run on a tablet?

PDA's and Linux:

I found something else on the Lycoris website that was exciting: they are developing a Desktop Linux OS for HP iPAQ PDA's, which use the StrongARM processor and normally run MS Pocket PC operating system. (They also mention the Sharp Zaurus which already runs embedded Linux).

"Synchronization with popular Desktop operating systems, including Desktop/LX Personal, Professional, and Tablet Editions"

If they will support using this PDA OS with Windows, Lycoris Linux and Mac OS X, for synch purposes they will have succeeded in providing a true multiplatform PDA. Right now it is still vaporware, but it is an exciting propect, especially if PDA manufacturers would start equipping their handhelds with Linux from the start.

But if it should happen, it underlines the need for a Linux based handheld ebook reader plus and formats.

Could this OS form the basis of an inexpensive ebook reading hardware/PDA combo for the masses?