Origins and Evolution
From Moblin to Tizen
The story of Tizen begins with Intel's Moblin project and Nokia's Maemo. These merged to form MeeGo, which was eventually phased out when Nokia aligned with Microsoft. The Linux Foundation then launched Tizen in 2011, with Intel and Samsung as key contributors.
Initial Releases and Milestones
Tizen 1.0 "Larkspur" launched in 2012. By 2013, Samsung merged its Bada OS into Tizen, simplifying its OS strategy. Key hardware milestones include the Japan-only Systena tablet (2013) and the Gear 2 smartwatch (2014).
Core Technologies
Linux Kernel and System Components
Tizen is based on a monolithic Linux kernel, utilizes the RPM package manager, and incorporates security features like SMACK (Simplified Mandatory Access Control Kernel).
UI and Development Frameworks
Tizen supports both native applications written in C/C++ and web apps using HTML5/JavaScript. It uses EFL (Enlightenment Foundation Libraries) for its UI and Tizen Studio as its official development IDE.
Licensing and Open Source Governance
Licensed under a combination of GPLv2, LGPL, BSD, and Apache 2.0, Tizen balances open development with proprietary control by Samsung, particularly in user-facing applications.
Deployment Across Devices
Smartphones and Tablets
Tizen smartphones like the Z1, Z3, and Z4 targeted emerging markets such as India and Russia. Despite limited commercial success and the closure of the Tizen app store in 2021, they proved the OS's mobile viability.
Smartwatches and Wearables
Between 2014 and 2021, Samsung’s smartwatches—including the Gear and Galaxy Watch series—ran Tizen. Known for efficient performance and bezel-based navigation, Tizen was eventually replaced by Wear OS 3 in newer models.
Smart TVs
Today, Tizen dominates Samsung’s Smart TV lineup, offering an intuitive interface, multi-tasking, streaming app support, and integration with services like Samsung TV Plus. As of 2018, Tizen held a 21% share of the global smart TV OS market.
Automotive Applications
Tizen serves as a reference OS for in-car infotainment through the Automotive Grade Linux initiative. Devices like the Samsung Connect Auto OBD-II dongle showcase its ability to manage connectivity and diagnostics in vehicles.
IoT and Smart Appliances
TizenRT, a real-time OS derived from NuttX, powers resource-constrained devices like refrigerators, washing machines, and other appliances. It integrates seamlessly with Samsung SmartThings for smart home automation.
Development Tools and Community
Tizen Studio
The official Tizen Studio IDE supports app development, debugging, and emulation. It replaced the older SDK and supports both native and web-based app projects.
Community and Ecosystem
The Tizen Association, composed of telecom companies and manufacturers, governs the platform's open development. However, Samsung continues to drive most strategic decisions.
Recent Updates and Future Outlook
Tizen 9.0 M2 and Beyond
Released in October 2024, Tizen 9.0 M2 brought performance improvements and enhanced support for AI-driven devices. Samsung also committed to offering seven years of updates for its AI Smart TVs, reinforcing Tizen’s ongoing relevance.
Strategic Shifts
While Tizen has exited the smartphone and wearable arenas, its core strength lies in consumer electronics and IoT. Samsung’s vertical integration ensures Tizen remains central to its product ecosystem.
Conclusion
Tizen's trajectory—from a Linux experiment to a cornerstone OS in Samsung's portfolio—demonstrates its flexibility and innovation. Though its mobile ambitions have tapered, Tizen thrives in smart TVs, IoT devices, and automotive applications. Backed by open-source principles and Samsung’s infrastructure, Tizen is well-positioned to evolve with the future of connected technology.
FAQs
1. What is Tizen OS used for today?
Primarily for smart TVs, smart appliances, and IoT devices by Samsung.
2. Is Tizen open source?
Yes, Tizen is open source, governed by the Tizen Association, and includes multiple open licenses.
3. Can I develop apps for Tizen?
Yes, using the Tizen Studio IDE, developers can create both native and web-based apps.
4. Is Tizen still used in Samsung smartphones?
No, Samsung discontinued its Tizen smartphones and app store in 2021.
5. What is TizenRT?
TizenRT is a lightweight real-time operating system version of Tizen for IoT and low-resource devices.
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