Qt Extended

Qt Extended is a user interface and application platform for consumer electronics running embedded Linux. It is based on Qt, the leading C++ cross-platform application framework for desktop and embedded development, which includes an intuitive class library and integrated development tools.

Qt is used in over 15 million devices in everything from medical devices and navigation units to set-top boxes, media players and mobiles phones. Qt Extended builds upon Qt for Embedded Linux, which provides its own compact windowing system. Qt Extended’s functionally modular structure makes it easy for you to differentiate from competition and to create an advanced user experience configured for a wide variety of devices.

 

INNOVATE & DIFFERENTIATE	Devices Powered by Qt
Create advanced user interfaces fast with a customizable UI Speed up development with help from intuitive APIs Choose just the features you need for your product using a functionally modular platform Minimize footprint by selecting out unnecessary components Deploy code from one device target to another by simply reusing code Optimize performance thanks to a mature framework and rapid testing

 
Whether you are targeting a handheld device or other advanced consumer electronics, Qt Extended allows you to easily opt in and out features by selecting modules containing a functionality set.  The API is separated from the application logic and UI, so you can choose to just use the API, and create your own applications and user experience.

The 19 modules contain libraries, plug-ins, server components and example applications. Modules are selected at build time and all modules function independently.

Features Qt Extended offers can be grouped into the following categories:

User Experience: Qt Extended offers flexibility in defining the user experience with support for advanced graphics such as SVG icons, gradients and alpha blending. OpenGL ES is supported including an OpenGL paint engine. Touch input is provided with finger touch objects and virtual keyboards. Internationalization and complete localization of the UI is easy.

Communications: With Qt Extended, both VoIP and cellular telephony are available and can be combined into one user interface. The Telepathy framework integration makes IP based communication and addition of new protocols simple.  Telepathy enables Qt Extended’s instant messaging and presence APIs and applications. In addition, connectivity features are included like Infrared, Bluetooth®, LAN and USB.

Content: Package management offers security features that enable downloading, installing and running of third-party applications. Media features include media player and framework with plug-in interfaces for different media engines, such as Helix™ DNA Client and Gstreamer. Capabilities for OMA DRM can also be integrated.

Application-specific: Applications have been included in Qt Extended to demonstrate the functionality and to validate Qt Extended’s APIs. This includes the messaging application with support for email, SMS, MMS, voice/video message and instant messages, as well as PIM offering applications like Calendar, Contacts, Media Recorder and Tasks. Location API is provided for general purpose location information. Other applications are offered such as games and essentials like Camera and Notes.

Qt Extended Tools: In addition to the Qt Development Tools for rapid GUI development, internationalization/localization, and documentation, Qt Extended includes its own tools to ease embedded development, such as the Logging application, Out-of-memory simulation, and Phone/modem simulator. Also included is, Qt Extended’s Qt UI Test tool, a valuable tool for UI testing including support for manual, semi-automated and automated tests that can be run on your target device. The functionality is based on test cases written in ECMAScript. A high-level testing API is provided, enabling tests that are flexible with respect to user interface changes. Traditional screenshot-based, record-and-playback testing is also possible.

Reference Designs

Based on a selection of modules within Qt Extended including the integration of the user interface module, two reference designs are available, which demonstrate the potential of Qt Extended and its versatility:

• Video IP Deskphone built on a Broadcom deskphone form factor - BCM1103 MIPS
• Touchscreen Mobile Phone built on FIC Neo 1973 - Samsung S3C2410

See also: Hardware requirements