Tizen, the Linux-based OS and successor to Intel and Nokia's MeeGo platform is nearing its market introduction. At the ongoing Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Tizen Association and Linux Foundation announced the beta release of the Tizen platform source code and SDK.

The Tizen SKD beta features UI framework and web APIs for easier development of rich web applications. The new SDK supports Windows and Ubuntu platforms, providing developers with greater choice in managing their projects. Tizen Association expects developers to work with the new features and functionality of the Tizen SDK beta and provide feedback to help improve the platform.

“It is very pleasing that Tizen continues to make good progress while capturing broad industry leadership. The new platform seeks to give device vendors freedom to differentiate and to assist operators in all regions to compile user propositions in a flexible way which is attuned to the specific requirements of their markets,” said Morgan Gillis, executive director of Tizen Association.

Tizen SDK release, however, was not the only announcement from Tizen Association at the event. The Association also confirmed that Huawei has joined the Tizen Association Board of Directors. Huawei intents to work closely with other companies on the Board to serve the need for the growth of Tizen. Huawei also plans to create and commercialize innovative Tizen handsets for a range of markets.

“We are very happy to join fellow industry leaders on the Board of Tizen Association. Our ongoing goal is to work closely with our customers and partners to bring truly innovative handset propositions to consumers in all markets and the new Tizen ecosystem complements our existing areas of focus and provides fresh opportunity for tremendously strengthening Huawei’s brand name in the mobile segment,” said Glory Zhang, Huawei spokesperson.

The Tizen Association is happy to welcome Huawei on board and expects more companies to join them in the future.

“We warmly welcome Huawei to Tizen Association. The open source approach and strong industry guidance through the Tizen Association Board are designed to make Tizen attractive to a wide range of companies and developers. We look forward to seeing many instances of mutual success within the new ecosystem," said Kiyohito Nagata of NTT DOCOMO, Chairperson, Tizen Association.

You can download the Tizen SDK beta from here.