The LiMo Foundation has added Adobe as its latest global partner, with Adobe applauding the group's open standards that will allow Adobe to "further its goals of open standards" in 2010.

"There has been a step change for Linux in mobile," said Morgan Gillis, head of LiMo, in an interview with Reuters.  "No other operating system now matches the vendor coverage of Linux -- it is being commercially developed by virtually all leading mobile device vendors from the largest downwards."

Despite calls for Adobe support from Apple iPhone owners, Adobe has continued to add support for Flash through other partners, including LiMo.  Adobe will now make it easier for developers to integrate Flash, Creative Suite and other Adobe software into future LiMo Platform product launches.

LiMo benefits by allowing software developers and wireless providers more access to software and apps users are able to use.  Panasonic and NEC introduced seven new LiMo-powered phones, as the non-profit company now has more than 50 different handsets available.

NEC, Panasonic, Motorola, Samsung, Else have been the largest manufacturers supporting LiMo, but the group hopes to woo new manufacturers in the future.

Even with a growing list of partners and supporters, LiMo still must learn to deal with increased competition from other mobile providers.  The industry is leaning towards robust smartphones for lower prices -- with manufacturers and wireless providers aiming to sign first-time smartphone owners into two-year contracts -- as apps and owner customization remain important features.