Android this year surpassed both iOS and Blackberry as the most popular smartphone OS, further catapulting Linux into the spotlight in the mobile device industry. Just a couple months ago, Amazon announced what analysts say is the first real threat to the iPad, the Amazon Kindle Fire. This introduction once again put Linux in the spotlight by allowing a major comapny like Amazon to build a self-branded device that is, as BusinessWeek reporter Brad Stone described, “cheap, pretty, and puts Amazon in perfect position to take a bite out of Apple – and every online transaction you make.”

Linux is making it possible for organizations to innovate in every device category. Because of its flexibility and cost, we expect to see a variety of new services-based business models take shape around Linux-based devices in 2012.

Before we embark on the New Year, though, let’s take a look at some of the most interesting Linux-based devices of 2011. You can view the full gallery here, at Best Linux Devices of 2011.