BeIA

BeIA is an OS and software platform targeted specifically to device manufacturers creating Internet appliances, both for information and entertainment purposes. The Internet appliances developed using BeIA could feature built-in TCP/IP communication functions; always-on, instant connect features simplifying the communications process for consumers; and an HTML front end allowing developers to completely customize the end-user's experience. Designed with a modular architecture, system designers can keep the overall footprint of the system light by incorporating only those components that are necessary for their implementation.

BeIA includes built-in support for most common Internet tasks, targeted to both Internet Appliances (typically smaller devices focused primarily on Web browsing, messaging, etc.) and Entertainment Appliances (primarily in-home devices focues on on-demand delivery of streaming media.) BeIA includes the Opera Web browser, supporting HTML 4.0, SSL2 and SSL3, and JavaScript; and the PersonalJava Java platform. Further, the RealPlayer and Flash plug-ins are provided supporting display of Flash animations as well as RealMedia, QuickTime, and MP3 streams.

BeIA appliances can integrate with and utilize external devices through support for both legacy protocols such as Serial or Parallel connections; as well as newer specifications such as USB and IEEE 1394. As part of this external device integration, Be has recently announced direct support for the full line of HP DeskJet printers.

BeIA requires devices with 8MB of persistent storage and 32MB of RAM (for single processor systems). For further information, visit the Be, Inc. Web site.