Matchbox is an GPL licensed base environment for the X Window System targeting primarily mobile platforms with small displays, limited input mechanisms and low system resources — typically PDA’s and mobile phones but also set-top boxes, kiosks and other non-desktop computers. Matchbox provides a number of core interchangable applications that aim to enhance usability in a constrained enviroment.

The most popular featured application is the matchbox window manager which provides decoration, controls, ‘PDA like’ layout and stacking policy to application windows. Further to this it supports window manager standards, advanced themeing and a wide scope of flexible features that allow for a high level of customisation. Other included applications include application launchers, a panel and applets, software input mechanisms and various other utilities.

The Matchbox window manager is now the de facto standard in window management on non-desktop platforms running the X Window System, and a core part of the GNOME Mobile platform. It is used on devices and platforms shipped by a number of vendors including Nokia, One Laptop Per Child, Access, OpenMoko, Vernier and Irex Technologies.

Matchbox has been in development by OpenedHand for over six years. Currently under heavy development is the next generation of Matchbox expected for initial release in 2008.

More Information
Visit the Matchbox website.

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