Jolla has just introduced the new Sailfish OS 2.0, and plans to incorporate the second-generation software, Sailfish Secure, with its own mobile hardware to create a security-enhanced version of its platform.
Moreover, the Finnish mobile startup will be collaborating with Finland's SSH Communications, with the latter responsible for providing key management and encryption to Sailfish Secure.
While the launch of Sailfish Secure has a timeframe that is dependent on "end-customer needs," there is also an aim to unleash the feature at least by the year 2016. However, the company has noted that its Sailfish 2.0, which also features support for tablet devices, is now available for licensing by OEMs.
"It is evident that the world needs a secure, transparent and open mobile solution alternative, which is not controlled by any country or major industry player," said Antti Saarnio, co-founder and chairman of the board of Jolla. "Together with leading security expert SSH Communications Security, we are aiming to create an open European mobile solution running on Sailfish OS. We are also inviting other industry players to join the initiative."
Jolla's announcement came with an invitation to companies, notably those that are in Japan and developing markets such as China, India and Russia, to get involved in one important goal. That goal focuses on building "a strong local mobile ecosystem and to create a true, independent and competitive alternative to Android."
If Samsung wanted to replace Google's Android with its own Tizen OS, Jolla on the other hand is one of those operating systems offering an Android alternative to manufacturers and networks. Since Android has earned such a ubiquitous presence, manufacturers find it a tough job to differentiate the system from rivals.
"The Sailfish Secure project is based on the premise that currently there are no European alternatives for secure mobile communication to Android or other U.S.-based operating systems," said Jolla. "This gives Jolla and Sailfish OS a unique position to enter the market and create an alternative solution to Android."
Sailfish OS was designed to be used primarily on the company's ARM-powered device which, incidentally, is also its first. In the previous year, the startup successfully earned $1.2 million in a mere two days of crowdfunding the Jolla Tablet. The success led the company to launch a follow-up campaign in January.
At present, Jolla is focusing on finding new partners (ODMS and OEMs) that would help them transport the Sailfish OS beyond its current hardware.
