Veteran of the mobile computing space Psion has launched its Omnii modular computing platform targeted at developers who share a strong connection with the open source development space. Aligning the company's Open Source Mobility (OSM) business model to the open, online community at www.ingenuityworking.com, Psion is attempting to embrace and embody what it calls the three core elements of open mobility: modularity, open innovation, and customization.

With over two decades of industry expertise in mobile architecture and design, Psion has undeniably made far fewer headlines in recent years compared to the early days of its pioneering innovations with clamshell design personal organizers.

The company argues that to achieve the longest possible lifecycle, companies have previously had to buy complex, expensive and over-featured devices to try and keep pace with changing technology and business needs. This also limited their ability to quickly adapt to new market opportunities or to adopt breakthrough technologies.

Psion claims that its Omnii platform fundamentally changes this scenario as it is designed to be almost completely re-configurable in the field.

"Devices built on the Psion Omnii platform can be adapted for new technologies or even be re-purposed as customer needs change. The upgradeable and interchangeable modules are not only developed by Psion, but also by an expanding network of more than 200 developer partners around the world, connected together via Psion’s open community," said Psion's John Conoley.

The first device to be created from the new Omnii platform is the Omnii XT10. The Omnii XT10 is described as a 'ultra rugged' handheld computer, targeted at demanding users, such as ports, airports, supply chain and logistics operations.