Credit card that helps out Linux? That'll do nicely

For open source devotees, there's now another way to support Linux - get yourself a new flexible friend.

The Linux Foundation has announced its own branded credit card this week, which comes sporting a picture of the Linux mascot, Tux the penguin.

Cute cartoons aside, the card will be used to generate funds for the Foundation, a not-for-profit consortium that aims to encourage the growth of Linux.

The organisation will get $50 every time the card is activated, plus "ongoing contributions".

The money will "go directly toward providing community technical events and travel grants for open source community members", according to the Foundation.

UK open-sourcers may be disappointed however: the card - a Visa Platinum - will initially only be available in the US although it's expected to hit new countries in the next few months.