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Embedded software · Startups
QNX Launchpad Commercial development licence opportunities for startups
QNX®, which announced Launchpad on 14 October, aims to help startups begin commercial product development on QNX. The goal is not simply to run a prototype, but to choose early the software foundation that will support the product in the field.
From the prototype stage to a commercial product
Prototype
Evaluate the target hardware, then define the functions.
Commercial development
Once your company’s eligibility is approved, begin development through Launchpad.
Product validation
Test integration, fault behaviour and safety requirements.
Production and scaling
Plan the deployment rights separately; move to standard commercial licensing when the programme ends.
For a small or medium-sized team, choosing an operating system is also a budget decision. A software platform selected to reduce initial costs may not meet future requirements. Changing platforms later may require porting the application, adapting drivers and repeating tests.
With Launchpad, QNX aims to reduce these initial barriers. Teams can begin commercial QNX development earlier and retain the same software foundation as their product develops. Platform selection can then reflect the product’s timing, hardware and maintenance requirements, rather than the initial licence cost alone.
Where could this approach help?
Mobile robotics
Sensor data and motion commands in warehouse robots must be processed within defined deadlines. Task management provided by the QNX real-time operating system could support this infrastructure.
Industrial automation
A robotic arm and the operator’s interface may share hardware in a production system. A hypervisor could be considered for running these workloads in separate operating systems.
Medical robotics
Medical robotics may require imaging and user-interface functions to be separated. QNX OS® for Safety could provide the software foundation. The finished device still requires separate safety and regulatory validation.
Application framework
For startups and growing technology teams
To join the programme, your company must be a startup or small or medium-sized business with annual revenue up to US$10 million. Participation can last up to two years, with eligibility assessed during the application. Companies in a recognised incubator or accelerator programme may receive additional benefits.
Software foundation
Software, development tools and expertise
The announcement describes access ranging from SDP development seats to Safety products. Confirm the components and licence scope for your project with QNX.
Your development licences
QNX® Software Development Platform (SDP) 8.0
A high-performance, safety-ready microkernel RTOS (real-time operating system) platform based on QNX OS 8.0. It brings together tools for development, debugging and performance analysis.
Your virtualisation needs
QNX® Hypervisor 8.0
Runs multiple operating systems in separate environments on shared hardware. Resource allocation and peripheral access are designed around the target system.
Projects with safety requirements
QNX OS® for Safety
The announcement also includes access to QNX Hypervisor for Safety through the programme. The Safety variant and certification scope should be selected according to the product’s requirements. A specialist can help you assess these choices.
Audio for your vehicles
QNX® Sound
A software environment for managing in-vehicle audio functions, including media, communications, alerts and noise control.
Technical support and engineering expertise
Participating companies can also access QNX technical support, embedded systems engineering expertise, and an ecosystem of hardware support, software, tools and services. The scope of support and the service level must be confirmed separately with QNX.
Access to Safety software does not certify the finished product. Development licences and device deployment rights are separate considerations. Development licence scope
Before the discussion
Where can teams in Türkiye start?
At TARGET A.Ş., we are here to discuss your product or programme, target hardware and development plans with you. Considering maintenance and the product’s intended service life alongside the licence cost in the first discussion can help your team progress more efficiently. Pricing and licence quantities are not listed on the public pages. TARGET A.Ş. can support you directly with these questions.
- Which hardware and versions?
- Which development and deployment rights?
- Which support and transition terms?
