Palm's webOS 2.0 SDK touts new Synergy APIs

Palm unveiled the first release of its webOS 2.0 SDK, available for download here to all registered members of the device maker's Early Access developer program. Chief among the enhancements in webOS 2.0: APIs for Palm Synergy, which automatically brings together user information like linked contacts, layered calendars and combined messaging into one single, integrated view. Developers can now merge their applications with the Contacts, Calendar and Messaging services, with other webOS data types on tap. The revamp also features Stacks, described by Palm Developer Community manager Chuq Von Rospach as an evolution of the multitasking card-shuffling metaphor introduced in webOS 1.0--the new operating system groups related cards in stacks, effectively reducing clutter and simplifying toggling between tasks.

In addition, webOS 2.0 boasts Just Type, a renamed and revamped Universal Search tool making it easier for users to update their social network status, set reminders and complete other in-app tasks. Also new: Exhibition, which introduces a special full-screen mode optimized for passive enjoyment and utility when devices are docked. "A handful of compelling Exhibition options will be built into webOS 2.0, but we're counting on you and your fellow developers to make Exhibition truly great," Von Rospach writes. "You can add Exhibition support to an existing app, or build something new just for Exhibition."

webOS 2.0 additionally builds in the Node.js runtime environment, offering developers the flexibility to build services in JavaScript. The OS also adds a host of HTML5 features and enhancements. "These are just the highlights," Von Rospach notes. "We've added a lot of features that will give your apps more power and flexibility than ever." Palm is scheduled to release webOS 2.0 sometime during the remainder of 2010.

For more on the webOS 2.0 SDK:
- read this Palm Developer Center Blog entry

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