The Linux Foundation (LF) today announced three new members who represent the increasing opportunity for Linux as it continues to mature on devices. New members include Marvell, Nokia and VirtualLogix.

“It’s really important to understand the issues and opportunities for Linux in multiple environments, and the addition of Marvell, Nokia and VirtualLogix will deepen our understanding and help us all push the envelope even further,” said Jim Zemlin, executive director of The Linux Foundation. “We’re looking forward to rolling up our sleeves with these new members in the coming months, including at our first Member Meeting this June.”

Marvell silicon solutions power a range of consumer electronics and the gateways that form connectivity among us all. Marvell joins The Linux Foundation with a focus on the standardization of mobile and embedded Linux and its adoption on a wide range of devices.

In addition to its leadership position in mobile communications, Nokia is recognized for its Linux based Maemo platform, open source mobile web browser and developer portal. It is interested in working with the LF on Linux-based technologies, including its Internet Tablet, in a vendor-neutral environment.

“It is important that Linux will not be controlled by any single company,” said Ari Jaaksi, director, Open Source Software Operation, Nokia. “The Linux Foundation’s protection mission helps provide that assurance. We also believe the Foundation’s collaboration role will provide us a good venue to work with the industry’s leaders in important areas such as desktop architecture and mobile Linux initiatives.”

VirtualLogix joins LF to contribute its real-time virtualization expertise to help device manufacturers incorporate the rich functionality of Linux into mobile handset and network infrastructure applications, while reducing bill of materials.