There has been some discussion in maemo-developers about the fact that "Full Python support" is in the maemo plans according to the roadmap. Python has been partially and increasingly supported in maemo. Some of the most original and recognized maemo applications are Python based.

Python is actually quite well supported in maemo. However, this "Full" in the official maemo roadmap makes a big difference:

• Having Python preinstalled in the Nokia Internet Tablets is a statement saying 'we want to make development for these devices easy'.
• Any software inside a Nokia device needs to go through a process of quality assurance and testing. This means official guarantee to end users and third party developers.
• If Nokia says Python is fully supported in maemo it means that all the API relevant to the Internet Tablets needs to be supported and updated in every release.
• It also means that Python documentation needs to be accordingly provided and maintained.
• Also, official support opens the door to other possibilities inside Nokia i.e. training materials and courses lead by Forum Nokia.
• Having Python officially supported might be an interesting feature for a specific market niche.
• Last but not least, maemo supporting officially Python is also a step forward in the context of the GNOME Mobile & Embedded stack: we are telling our neighbors how important Python applications, bindings and documentation are for our platform, opening yet another possibility for collaboration.

I guess the Python community also sees the difference of commitment. Said all this, Python lovers will need to be a bit patient. We will keep improving significantly Python support during the Chinook and Diablo release cycles, but it is still unclear when this fullness will be achieved.