IBM unveiled an application development cloud called the IBM Power Development Platform, providing software developers with no-charge access[1] over the cloud to IBM Power Systems servers to build, port and test applications.  IBM expects the new resource will be of particular interest to Linux developers, many of whom are seeking and using more powerful, modern servers built to handle the new wave of open, collaborative applications built for Big Data, mobile and social business computing.

Accessible through IBM's PartnerWorld program at www.ibm.com/partnerworld/pdp, the Power Development Platform (PDP) provides developers worldwide remote access to the latest IBM POWER7 and POWER7+ processor-based servers running Linux, AIX and IBM i operating systems.  Once up and running on the PDP, users have access to the same hardware platform -- Power Systems -- that, together with Linux, powers IBM Watson's cognitive computing solutions.  Additionally, the PDP includes a new Linux porting image with IBM DB2 10.x, IBM WebSphere 8.5.5, and the latest Linux development tools for Power.  The PDP also serves as an entry point to the full IBM Software Group Software Access Catalog, which contains current versions of hundreds of downloadable IBM software applications.   

"The new era of computing upon us requires more from technology infrastructure -- faster insights, greater efficiency, tighter collaboration," said Doug Balog, General Manager of IBM Power Systems.  "Now more than ever we're seeing a lot of new, exciting things being done on the Power platform.  Our new development cloud will serve as a springboard for innovation from a talented development community.  Providing cloud access to Power accelerates the development of applications that deliver even greater business value to our clients." 

The PDP complements a growing network of physical Power Systems Linux Centers launched last year around the world, with the first centers located in Beijing, New York, Austin, Montpellier and Tokyo.  Together, the centers have provided hundreds of Business Partners, ISVs and developers with hands on help porting, testing, certifying and demonstrating thousands of applications successfully on the Power platform.  The Beijing center alone helped over 300 visitors port 562 new applications to the Power platform in 2013. 

Prior to the launch of the PDP, IBM offered virtual access to Power servers through an online resource called the Virtual Loaner Program.  Given growing interest, particularly by Linux developers, IBM performed an overhaul of the program over the past few months.  Major enhancements included in the new PDP are increased capacity, additional Linux development tools, improved reservation navigation and deeper social media integration to provide users with more news and information. 

For more information on IBM Power Systems, go to www.ibm.com/power.

[1] No-charge access refers only to remote access provided by IBM to POWER7 and POWER7+ resources for development and testing purposes. Does not include charges associated with Internet access, Partner-provided equipment, etc. necessary for building, porting and testing Partner-developed applications.