Topic

Open-source firmware

Community-written device software that replaces a manufacturer's own, usually to add features, improve the interface or remove limits the vendor imposed.

Current clusters

product1 publisher

Xteink's $99 e-reader ships with crude stock software, but reviewer upgrades it with CrossPoint, a year-old open-source firmware

The X4 Pro has a front light, a 72-gram body and no e-book store. Fast Company's reviewer planned to replace its stock software before the device arrived, and the replacement is maintained by unpaid coders.

Publishers:fastcompany.com

Reality

Evidence55
Adoption18
Hype gap+12
Incentives25
Confidence58