Sum up WebOS? Not enough resources and a flawed foundation

The choice of webkit:

After some internal debate, the company chose to have WebOS rely on WebKit, an open-source software engine used by browsers to display Web pages. Mr. Mercer said that this was a mistake because it prevented applications from running fast enough to be on par with the iPhone. But a former member of the WebOS app development team said the core issue with WebOS was actually Palm’s inability to turn it into a platform that could capture the enthusiasm and loyalty of outside programmers.

…and there wasn’t enough in tank to keep it going:

 The company had enough staff to get the Pre out the door, but it underestimated how many people it would need to make improvements, the former employee said.

Brian Chen at the NY Times. Now contrast this with the efforts that Microsoft are putting in to Windows Phone. Really they are the only company that can stick at it long-term and challenge iOS and Android – and even then have they given the other platforms too much of a head start?

Yes, it’s going to be a fun 2012.