The Linux Foundation has announced that Tizen developer hardware is now available through its development unit program, and has invited developers to apply for a handset.

The units are intended for developers working on Tizen applications, and in order to be eligible for a developer handset, you'll need to "demonstrate a clear and compelling purpose for physical hardware that cannot be reasonably addressed using the Tizen SDK and emulation".

Tizen is the accumulation of Nokia and Intel's ill-fated MeeGo OS, which was combined with the community working on the mobile version of Linux.

Appetizen'

Since Tizen dev units are currently in short supply, the foundation is only able to offer handsets to 'top applicants' who submit their request by 11:59 PST on 29 June.

Preference will be given to the 'most qualified' developers, and those whose development projects fill 'an obvious gap in the Tizen ecosystem' will also stand a strong chance of landing a unit.

Full details of eligibility and selection criteria are available on the Linux Foundation's development unit program page, where developers can find an online form to apply for a unit.

[source: The Linux Foundation]