Samsung is reportedly planning to buy Nokia and Intel's MeeGo operating system just as it confirmed it was not buying Hewlett Packards webOS.

According to German tech blog NetbookNews Samsung was looking to buy the Linux-based, open-source OS which was developed by Nokia and Intel. The OS launched back in February 2010 has since faded into the background as Nokia abandoned it in favor of Microsoft's Windows Phone 7 and Intel announced that it was backing off development for the MeeGo. Nokia has launched its last MeeGo device in the N9 last June.

Intel's lack of interest in the OS could pave the way for Samsung's takeover. It's been speculated that Samsung would want the OS because of Google's acquisition of Motorola. While the company has said that it welcomed the news it may have caused concern in Google's Android partners. Samsung could be shopping for a new OS to replace the Android.

Samsung could also find the MeeGo an enticing alternative for its patent portfolio. The company has been embroiled in a much-publicized patent war with Apple and the MeeGo's patents could potentially help Samsung to release new devices without Apple trying to ban it outright.

If Samsung does acquire the MeeGo OS it may just integrate parts of the MeeGo into its own proprietary Bada code. However aside from confirming that it would not buy the HP webOS, the Korean manufacturer hasn't announced any further plans in the software market.