HP buys Linux OS from Phoenix Technologies

HP has agreed to acquire a Linux operating system from software developer Phoenix Technologies for US$12m (A$13.9m).

The HyperSpace purchase includes a quick-boot operating system and a number of virtualisation tools.

"We are very pleased that HP has agreed to acquire these assets relating to Phoenix's HyperSpace, given HP's rich history of innovation and product differentiation," said Phoenix president and chief executive Tom Lacey.

HP made a similar, though rather more expensive, acquisition in April when it paid US$1.5b (A$1.6b) for embattled handset maker Palm. HP said that the main reason for the deal was gaining control of Palm's webOS smartphone platform.

Phoenix is undergoing a business transition, selling off assets in an effort to narrow its focus to the core system software (BIOS) market.