LINUX FOUNDATION RESEARCH

We’re investigating the impact of open source collaboration to solve the world’s most pressing challenges.

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About LF Research

LF Research publishes actionable and decision-useful insights into open source software, hardware, standards, and data based on empirical research methodologies. Through leveraging community networks, project databases, surveys, and qualitative findings, and through its commitment to best practices in primary research, Linux Foundation Research is the definitive home for data-driven insights into open source for the benefit of governments, enterprises, and society at large.

35 Years of Linux

How did a hobby project evolve into the open source engine of global infrastructure? The milestone report by LF Research examines the kernel’s historic and organic evolution as well as its present-day impact. 

 

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Participate in Our Research

Join the LF Research Forum and participate in our surveys and interviews to give back to your community and earn events & training discounts!

 

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Interested in conducting research?

Review our prospectus for more information, and email us at research@linuxfoundation.org

 

2025 Napa LFMS Stephanie Hilary Nithya

Expanding the Vision for the Mobile Industry

Download Report
LF Research and Open Mobile Hub partnered in 2025 to examine shifts in the mobile app ecosystem since the 2023 study. Interviews with over 20 subject matter experts revealed that the old model of native app development is being overtaken by cross-platform development, but important gaps remain in the support for more platforms and services.
 
Key findings include:
  • Over 2 billion devices run on alternative platforms like Android AOSP, Fire OS, Harmony, and Horizon OS. Developers and decision-makers can no longer afford to ignore this expanding ecosystem.
  • Cross-platform frameworks like Flutter and KMP can cut development time by 30–50%.
  • Many enterprises now reuse 80%+ of code across platforms, improving speed and consistency.
  • Emerging platforms and services demand new strategies—and new standards.
Read the report for a full picture of this dynamic ecosystem and where Open Mobile Hub fits to address these gaps.
 
Author
  • Gordon Graham
DOI: 10.70828/SDXY4194

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