With the G1, Linux takes its first starring role in the U.S. cellular handset market. For years, the OS has been the secret foundation of many a phone, gps device, ATM, in-flight movie player, web server, gadget, what have you. As far as much of the American public is concerned, Android represents the birth of Linux, if the collective "they" know that name at all.

Linux has been indispensable in the research of world-class universities, in the management and functioning of public transit systems, and in the logistics of the most powerful financial institutions of the world. Linux is responsible for the data management of countless individuals, companies, and governments. And yet this marvel of collaborative effort and technical evolution goes unnoticed by the public at large.

This is the first time that we in The States are hearing the word "open" used publicly as a selling point. And with it, Android kick-starts the proliferation of Linux in one more territory. "Open Source" would probably sound to geeky and intimidating for the average consumer right now. And we Linux enthusiasts should be happy with whatever progress there is in ousting our beloved penguin from the proverbial closet and establishing him in national consciousness - open and proud.