Perhaps, but the risk can be reduced by open-sourcing code, requiring software patch downloads, and notifying gun makers or law enforcement if software is disabled.

CNN: Make guns smart

Between this and the promise of plenty of forthcoming functionality through official channels and open-sourcing, the Node will continue to grow into a more enticing proposition.

ENGADGET: Node modular iOS sensor hands-on Hands-on

By open-sourcing its model, TechStars has helped launch other accelerators.

FORBES: With Reporting By: Ryan Mac

Because the code has been licensed under the Eclipse public license rather than the harder-core GPL, device manufacturers will be able to continue to tack on custom features and hardware support without open-sourcing it, which should make them less gun-shy about throwing weight behind the platform -- and considering how badly these guys need to get back into the spotlight, that's a good thing.

ENGADGET: Symbian Foundation talks about its move to open source