Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget Mobile http://www.engadgetmobile.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[New players team up with LiMo Foundation]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/new-players-team-up-with-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/new-players-team-up-with-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/new-players-team-up-with-limo-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Following a new round of partnership announcements back in February, LiMo Foundation today added 8 new members, bringing the grand total to 40 -- and perhaps most notably, Verizon Wireless becomes the first American carrier to team up with the group and the Foundation's final board member (in other words, they seem to be taking this initiative pretty seriously). Other new players include South Korea's SK Telecom, France's SFR, Sagem, chipmaker Infineon, and Mozilla, suggesting that there'll be plenty of mobile Firefox support for LiMo's nascent platform. LiMo represents the largest Linux-based threat to Android's plans for world domination, having announced its initiative some time before Google while collecting a veritable who's-who of world players from NTT DoCoMo to manufacturers like LG and Motorola -- and with the depth of Verizon's commitment to this, evident by its nabbing of an actual board seat, we wouldn't be surprised to see LiMo-based products actually go beyond its Any Apps, Any Device initiative and get real on the carrier's official lineup.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewslimolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxmozillasagemsfrsk telecomSkTelecomverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWed, 14 May 2008 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Verizon rumored ready to get down with LiMo Foundation]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/verizon-rumored-ready-to-get-down-with-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/verizon-rumored-ready-to-get-down-with-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/14/verizon-rumored-ready-to-get-down-with-limo-foundation/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest word on the street suggests that Verizon is getting ready to announce that it's throwing its formidable weight behind the LiMo Foundation, that "other" mobile Linux group that's attracted some serious muscle behind founding member NTT DoCoMo. With Verizon's Any Apps, Any Device initiative on tap for this year, a wide-open platform like LiMo makes perfect sense -- and as folks are pointing out, the move wouldn't preclude the carrier from jumping on the Android bandwagon just the same once the hardware and software have ripened enough for customer consumption. If this all goes down, it'd mark the very first American carrier to sign on with LiMo -- and since Verizon's European spouse, Vodafone, is already on board, the synergy's pretty obvious. What's more, media outlets (ours included) have gotten word that LiMo will be announcing several new partners in the morning, including a "major US wireless service provider." Wonder who that could be?

[Via mocoNews]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxverizonverizon wirelessVerizonWirelessvzwWed, 14 May 2008 01:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola A1600 MING 2 garners FCC approval]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/motorola-a1600-ming-2-garners-fcc-approval/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/motorola-a1600-ming-2-garners-fcc-approval/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/06/motorola-a1600-ming-2-garners-fcc-approval/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Yo, Americans: if you want to learn more about a sweet-looking phone that Motorola doesn't think you should have, we've got just the place for you. Take a stroll on over to the FCC's documentation site, where you'll find a wealth of information on Moto's rumored A1600 MING 2. The Linux-based smartphone carries over the important parts of the original MING's trademark industrial design but upgrades to a respectable 3.2 megapixel camera, quadband EDGE, and allegedly WiFi -- though we couldn't find any mention of it in the manual. Sadly, as we mentioned, there doesn't appear to be any plan to bring the A1600 to the States with a user's manual emblazoned with "Asia/EMEA" on page 1, but with that worldband radio, at least it'll be pretty painless to import and use it if you're so inclined.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1600fccming 2Ming2motomotorolaTue, 06 May 2008 09:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola's ZN5 captured in pictures, no blur included]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/motorolas-zn5-captured-in-pictures-no-blur-included/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/motorolas-zn5-captured-in-pictures-no-blur-included/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/05/01/motorolas-zn5-captured-in-pictures-no-blur-included/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sure, you've already treated your eyes to a few less-than-stellar images of the ZN5, but this candybar just got a whole lot clearer. A handful of new images have surfaced over at KeySJ, and they take you all the way around the handset itself and even give you a look at the interface. We know, we've probably already lost you to the read link below, but if you're somehow still here, then here's your unnecessary permission to head on down and indulge. Thanks for caring.

[Via JumpAMP]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>candybarmotorolapicspicturessneak peekSneakPeekZN5Thu, 01 May 2008 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola's leaky faucet rumors three new handsets]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/motorolas-leaky-faucet-rumors-three-new-handsets/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/motorolas-leaky-faucet-rumors-three-new-handsets/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/28/motorolas-leaky-faucet-rumors-three-new-handsets/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Motorola may have a few more tricks up its sleeve in the coming months, and while the W388, W396, and VA76r weren't mentioned in the recently leaked roadmap, they're still barely worth mentioning. Info is pretty thin on the W388 and W396 with both featuring 128X128 screens, GPRS, Java, and VGA shooters, or as we like to call 'em, bargain basement sets. The oddly named VA76r offers at least a glimmer of hope in the spec department with a QVGA screen, Montavista 2.6.10 Linux OS, Freescale ArgonLV processor, 2 megapixel shooter, and a dash of HSDPA. No pics, prices, dates, or even solid grounding in reality were provided with this lot, though really, this doesn't have us jumping with wild abandon anyway, go MOTO.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>montavistamotorolaroadmaprumorva76rw388w396Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts project Linux in 20% of mid- to high-end handsets by 2013]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/analysts-project-linux-in-20-of-mid-to-high-end-handsets-by-20/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/analysts-project-linux-in-20-of-mid-to-high-end-handsets-by-20/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/26/analysts-project-linux-in-20-of-mid-to-high-end-handsets-by-20/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


There's little doubt that Linux has quite a bit going for it in the mobile realm, but a recent report put out by ABI Research asserts that just about one in every five mid- to high-end handsets sold in 2013 will boast a Linux-based OS. Citing the mounting momentum behind LiMo Foundation as well as the alleviation of "issues with framework fragmentation and silicon requirements," the research firm is projecting Linux to be an integral part of some 20-percent of higher-end mobiles in just 5 years. ABI Research's VP even noted that "Linux OS solutions will be far more cost-effective than incumbent solutions, even when silicon requirements are taken into account, given that a fuller application layer will be included in the standard package and that the burden of customization falls mostly on the independent software vendor." Hey, you won't find us kvetching about the proliferation of open-source.

[Via mocoNews]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abi researchAbiResearchdatalimolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxopen-sourceresearchstudySat, 26 Apr 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola A810 gets Linuxy on the FCC]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorola-a810-gets-linuxy-on-the-fcc/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorola-a810-gets-linuxy-on-the-fcc/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorola-a810-gets-linuxy-on-the-fcc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


That spy shot of Motorola's A810 turned out to be dead real -- either that or the FCC's pulling the wool over our eyes, and we really don't see that happening (not a lot of humor with those guys, don't you know). Don't get too excited for use of this Linux-based, full touchscreen puppy outside of Asia, though, seeing how the FCC saw fit to approve nothing more than GSM / EDGE 1900; that's an indication that it lacks GSM 850 and the key to our hearts. Other features that made the cut include a 2 megapixel camera (although the picture of the back kinda looks like it says "4.0 megapixel," doesn't it?) and an FM radio, so to whomever out there has the distinct pleasure of being able to buy this one in their home market, we say: enjoy.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a810fccmotomotorolaWed, 23 Apr 2008 15:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola's ZN5 gets clearer, Kodak co-branding and all]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorolas-zn5-gets-clearer-kodak-co-branding-and-all/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorolas-zn5-gets-clearer-kodak-co-branding-and-all/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/23/motorolas-zn5-gets-clearer-kodak-co-branding-and-all/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


So this is where the Kodak teaser shot is leading, eh? A clear full-body shot of Motorola's upcoming ZN5 candybar has finally hit the web, appearing to borrow a number of fresh design elements from recently-spied models (take the keypad font, for example, which we've seen on Verizon's unannounced Moto clamshells, and morph tech from the E8). Unfortunately, it doesn't matter how great that 5 megapixel Kodak sensor really is -- the lack of 3G is pretty unforgivable in the year 2008, even if Motorola intends to restrict this model to Asia, which in itself doesn't make terribly much sense for a company that should be concentrating on a global turnaround.

[Via Unwired View]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>candybarkodakmotomotorolazn5Wed, 23 Apr 2008 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[OpenMoko FreeRunner launch imminent, $399 a pop]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/13/openmoko-freerunner-launch-imminent-399-a-pop/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/13/openmoko-freerunner-launch-imminent-399-a-pop/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/04/13/openmoko-freerunner-launch-imminent-399-a-pop/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


OpenMoko's first model, the Neo1973, has been sold out for some time now -- a testament to the popularity of the open-source phone concept, yes, but also a huge pain in the rear for new folks looking to get in on the action. That drought is thankfully about to end, though, with the introduction of the FreeRunner, a refreshed model that carries over the best parts of the Neo (think VGA touchscreen) while adding a few key features like three-axis motion detection and a faster processor. The group has just announced pricing on the latest model, and it comes in at a very consumer-friendly $399 -- unlocked, naturally -- which should allow a whole new group of hackers and Joe Regulars to join in the Linux free-for-all. Anyone needing ten or more will get an even better deal: $369, to be exact. It looks like the company's studying production samples right now, and if all goes well, we'll still see them in the pipe before the month's out.

[Via PHONE Magazine]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freerunnerlinuxneoneo1973openopen sourceopenmokoOpenSourceSun, 13 Apr 2008 21:04:00 EST<![CDATA[LiMo Platform Release 1 gets loosed, R2 to come later this year]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/31/limo-platform-release-1-gets-loosed-r2-to-come-later-this-year/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/31/limo-platform-release-1-gets-loosed-r2-to-come-later-this-year/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/31/limo-platform-release-1-gets-loosed-r2-to-come-later-this-year/#commentsFiled under: ,


Don't look now, but mid-2008 is almost here, and for those waiting intently for the release of a LiMo SDK, you're one step closer to having your dreams realized. Announced today, the LiMo Foundation has made available what it calls the "first globally competitive, Linux-based software platform for mobile devices." According to Morgan Gillis, executive director of LiMo Foundation, the consortium is hoping that R1 will "spur rapid innovation and contributions from all LiMo members," and it's restated that software development kits for Native, WebKit and Java operating environments are set to launch during the second half of this year. Not one to sit idly, the entity has also announced that Release 2 is currently "being specified and developed," and should escape testing and greet the real world in late 2008.

[Via PhoneScoop]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limoLiMo FoundationLimoFoundationlinuxopen sourceopen-sourceOpenSourcereleasesdkMon, 31 Mar 2008 15:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass exodus from Nokia's Maemo group -- what does it mean?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/25/mass-exodus-from-nokias-maemo-group-what-does-it-mean/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/25/mass-exodus-from-nokias-maemo-group-what-does-it-mean/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/25/mass-exodus-from-nokias-maemo-group-what-does-it-mean/#commentsFiled under: ,

We're not able to glean much of a clue what this all means to the program exactly, but at least four players in and around Nokia's Maemo team have quit in the past few weeks. The company's so-called "Internet Tablets" -- the 770, N800, and N810 -- have been the main beneficiaries of the Maemo community's efforts; with Nokia's recent acquisition of Trolltech it's pretty clear that the company's still fully committed to the open source thing, but who knows, maybe Maemo's not the way they want to do it. Fortunately, Maemo's picked up enough of a following to live on with or without Nokia's support, but it'd be an awful shame to see 'em move in an entirely different direction nonetheless. We'd say the platform's safe -- for the moment, anyway, with the impending launch of the WiMAX'd N810 seeming likely -- but we'll keep an eye out for developments.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hildonlinuxmaemonokiaopen sourceOpenSourceTue, 25 Mar 2008 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Why wait for the launch? Motorola MING 2 being sold in China]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/21/why-wait-for-the-launch-motorola-ming-2-being-sold-in-china/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/21/why-wait-for-the-launch-motorola-ming-2-being-sold-in-china/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/21/why-wait-for-the-launch-motorola-ming-2-being-sold-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


First seen last year and rumored for a Q2 '08 release, it seems like some impatient individuals in the Far East (where the handset is presumably made) decided to take matters into their own hands and have a little "launch" of their own, if you will, with a prototype unit that fell just a little too far from the manufacturing facility's tree. Unwired View turned up this A1600 MING 2 for sale in Shenzen, China, offering a fabulous glimpse at the Linux-based MING successor; turns out she sports WiFi, a 3.2 megapixel camera, and integrated GPS. Add world-band HSDPA, Motorola, and our money is yours. Honest.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1600chinalinuxmingming 2Ming2motomotorolaFri, 21 Mar 2008 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[OpenMoko FreeRunner spied wearing new clothes]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/18/openmoko-freerunner-spied-wearing-new-clothes/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/18/openmoko-freerunner-spied-wearing-new-clothes/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/18/openmoko-freerunner-spied-wearing-new-clothes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


By the very nature of the organization, details of OpenMoko's upcoming FreeRunner are no secret -- quite the opposite, in fact -- but it's always refreshing to see the new kit out and about, doing what it does best (pictured here on the left). This image comes to us from the Bossa Conference in Brazil, where OpenMoko's Mickey Lauer talked up the Neo1973 successor, showed off the device bearing ever-so-slightly updated styling over its big brother (and over the model we saw at CES), and went over a laundry list of its impressive features. Three-axis motion detection is going to be a big win for devs and hobbyists looking to maximize the FreeRunner's potential, but other goodies include Bluetooth 2.0, WiFi (allegedly 802.11n, but that sounds a little optimistic to us), and a Samsung-sourced core humming along at a solid 134MHz better than the model it replaces. Would be nice if we could touch this thing at CTIA next month, yeah?
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bassobrazilficfreerunnerlinuxopenmokoTue, 18 Mar 2008 16:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola passes muster chez the FCC, still bound for AT&T?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/13/motorola-passes-muster-chez-the-fcc-still-bound-for-atandt/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/13/motorola-passes-muster-chez-the-fcc-still-bound-for-atandt/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/03/13/motorola-passes-muster-chez-the-fcc-still-bound-for-atandt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We've heard whisperings about the AT&T bound MOTO Z9 since July last year. The handset popped up again just before Christmas with a rumored launch date of January 2008, and, of course, that date blew by. All hail and praise the FCC for outing this fella this time, but seriously, how about getting it out the door already? Hopefully the joyful event that is CTIA will be the venue where we finally see the Z9 both announced and launched.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FCCLaunchMotorolaZ9Thu, 13 Mar 2008 03:06:00 EST<![CDATA[OpenMoko prepping second handset for March or April unveil?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/18/openmoko-prepping-second-handset-for-march-or-april-unveil/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/18/openmoko-prepping-second-handset-for-march-or-april-unveil/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/18/openmoko-prepping-second-handset-for-march-or-april-unveil/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Without going into too much detail, Digitimes reports that OpenMoko president Sean Moss-Pultz has promised a new version of its Neo1973 open source handset to be unveiled somewhere in the next couple months, making both CeBIT and CTIA distinct possibilities for the big news. Given the scarcity of specifications here, it's entirely possible Moss-Pultz is referring to the retail version of the FreeRunner -- a phone we saw in very, very early form at CES -- but obviously, if we had our druthers, we'd much rather see another volley of brand new hardware come out of this. More news on this as we get it.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ficfreerunnerlinuxneoneo1973open sourceopenmokoOpenSourceMon, 18 Feb 2008 22:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with iriver's 3-inch touchscreen phone]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/hands-on-with-irivers-3-inch-touchscreen-phone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/hands-on-with-irivers-3-inch-touchscreen-phone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/hands-on-with-irivers-3-inch-touchscreen-phone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Nice going iriver, now this is something we can sink our teeth into, though like the last time we saw this, the UI has a look and feel we recognize, but can't quite place. The rear of the unit is labeled W7, though we're not sure if they share the same guts or just the case. Nothing much new to report, specs are the same as we saw last time, though we did get a chance to drop the rivermobile -- we totally made that name up on the spot, sorry -- into its GPS housing, see some shots in the gallery. Iriver is still confident it'll ship by end of year, we certainly look forward to checking it out when it does.

Gallery: Hands-on with iriver's 3-inch touchscreen phone

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featureshands-oniriverMWCphoneTue, 12 Feb 2008 15:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Trolltech blesses Qtopia with finger-friendly touch, Outlook sync support]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/trolltech-blesses-qtopia-with-finger-friendly-touch-outlook-syn/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/trolltech-blesses-qtopia-with-finger-friendly-touch-outlook-syn/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/12/trolltech-blesses-qtopia-with-finger-friendly-touch-outlook-syn/#commentsFiled under:

Mobile Linux flagbearer Trolltech appears to be carrying on at a nice clip in the wake of its acquisition by Nokia, and for its Qtopia Phone Edition platform, things just got a little sweeter. The company is using MWC as its stage to announce version 4.3, which is actually a good deal more revolutionary than its one-tenth increment would lead on. Biggies in the new build include a new UI theme designed to be finger-friendly (which makes total sense considering Trolltech's endorsement of the keypadless Neo1973 as the hackable, Linux-based mobile of choice for the moment), the "Qtopia Sync Agent" which ushers data between a Qtopia device and Microsoft Outlook, and support for Real's Helix DNA media engine, among other things. The goods are already available in beta, open source form from Trolltech's site, so hack away.

[Via Geekzone]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ficlinuxmobile world congressMobileWorldCongressmwcneo1973nokiaopenmokoqtopiatrolltechTue, 12 Feb 2008 07:47:00 EST<![CDATA[LiMo Foundation makes a splash; adds members, shows hardware]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-makes-a-splash-adds-members-shows-hardware/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-makes-a-splash-adds-members-shows-hardware/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-makes-a-splash-adds-members-shows-hardware/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Not to be outdone by a powerful Android presence, the boys and girls at the LiMo Foundation have brought it strong with a series of announcements at Mobile World Congress. Yeah, the SDK is en route, but that's just the beginning; first up, and perhaps most notably in its effort to fight the Android juggernaut, LiMo has managed to sign up a slew of new partners. Most notable on the refreshed roster include ACCESS (which just hooked up with MontaVista, itself a LiMo member), Samsung, and carriers Orange and SoftBank.

The foundation is backing up its talk with some walk, too, in the form of several production-ready handsets: the U9, Z6w, Z6, E8, RAZR 2 V8, and RAZR 2 V8 Luxury Edition from Motorola (all devices that have previously been launched using MOTOMAGX, Moto's own special flavor of mobile Linux), the Samsung i800 which is destined for Orange's airwaves, and the N905i, N905iu, N705, N705iu, P905i, P905iTV, P705, and P705iu -- a mouthful of models from members NEC and Panasonic for Japan's NTT DoCoMo. Also rocking out at MWC are prototypes from LG and Aplix along with the Purple Magic low-cost flip from Purple Labs. Is it all enough momentum to give some balance to the mobile Linux landscape and serve as the yin to Google's yang? Seems like a strong possibility, but we'll have to hold our horses until developers are playing with the final tools and handsets are in wide circulation.

Read - LiMo Foundation unveils first LiMo handsets
Read - New LiMo Foundation members introduced
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lglimolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxmobile world congressMobileWorldCongressmotomotorolamwcnecntt docomoNttDocomoorangepanasonicMon, 11 Feb 2008 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[ACCESS Linux Platform gets integrated with MontaVista Mobilinux]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/access-linux-platform-gets-integrated-with-montavista-mobilinux/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/access-linux-platform-gets-integrated-with-montavista-mobilinux/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/access-linux-platform-gets-integrated-with-montavista-mobilinux/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Look out, world -- ACCESS has just announced that it's crawling even deeper in bed with MontaVista Software in order to "accelerate development of smart mobile devices." More specifically, the two have released a "pre-integrated software stack combining the ACCESS Linux Platform with the MontaVista Mobilinux operating system," which should purportedly hack down the engineering time required for DIY integration along with decreasing "associated costs and risks." Reportedly, the ALP-Mobilinux software stack is up for grabs right now on the Texas Instruments OMAP2430 processor, and while specifics are unfortunately absent, we are told that additional hardware platforms will be added in the months ahead.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ACCESSlinuxMobile World CongressMobileWorldCongressMobilinuxmontavistaopen souceopen-sourceOpenSouceMon, 11 Feb 2008 12:49:00 EST<![CDATA[LiMo Foundation plans SDK for mid 2008]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-plans-sdk-for-mid-2008/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-plans-sdk-for-mid-2008/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/11/limo-foundation-plans-sdk-for-mid-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


With all the hubbub over Android at Mobile World Congress this year (and in the world, in general), it only makes sense that other Linux-based contenders would step into the light. The LiMo Foundation -- a consortium of some pretty major players -- has announced plans for an official SDK in the second half of the year which will cover native, Java, and WebKit development. The software, dubbed the R1 LiMo Platform, will pull together existing APIs and development tools into a more cohesive whole, with ACCESS taking the lead on the native side, Aplix heading up Java development, and Motorola fleshing out the WebKit tools. There are 18 LiMo-powered handsets on display at Mobile World Congress this year, with seven vendors using the platform -- including Samsung and LG -- and the group says it's just added nine new companies to the team. The creation of a cohesive platform should bolster the consortium's position in the market. Says CCS Insight's Ben Wood, "To have a credible platform, a more detailed operating system framework is likely to be required."

Read - LiMo Foundation Announces SDK Strategy
Read - LG, Samsung bet on new mobile Linux platform
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limo foundationLimoFoundationmobile linuxMobileLinuxsdksoftware development kitSoftwareDevelopmentKitMon, 11 Feb 2008 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Is this the touchscreen Motorola A810?]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/is-this-the-touchscreen-motorola-a810/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/is-this-the-touchscreen-motorola-a810/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/is-this-the-touchscreen-motorola-a810/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Anything is possible we guess, but this Motorola A810 looks a bit like it might have been put together at kindergarten craft hour. Apparently this Linux-based -- LiMo? -- 2.4-inch touchscreen device will feature handwriting recognition, a 2 megapixel cam, memory expansion via SD card, and hopefully the bezel around the screen will end up a little more even. Of course, this could also be a fanboy mockup and we're simply not getting that in translation, either way, hit the read link for more pics and even more undecipherable translation.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A810linuxmotorolarumorTue, 05 Feb 2008 23:28:00 EST<![CDATA[LiMo Foundation gearing up for March date with destiny]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/limo-foundation-gearing-up-for-march-date-with-destiny/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/limo-foundation-gearing-up-for-march-date-with-destiny/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/05/limo-foundation-gearing-up-for-march-date-with-destiny/#commentsFiled under: ,


It looks like Android and the boys and girls over at the LiMo Foundation are lining up for a head-on collision -- a veritable mobile Linux explosion, if you will. The coalition is prepping to finalize its core software and programming interface by next month, but devs can get a head start now by grabbing a beta version of the SDK, ahead of the "significant" changes to Android's SDK promised in the next few weeks. Even better, LiMo's chief says that real, actual handsets running its wares will be available "very soon" -- and with companies like Azingo already ready and willing to throw together fully functional stacks, the world might just be big enough for two players in the mobile Linux arena after all.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxTue, 05 Feb 2008 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Purple Labs announces cheap Linux-based reference design]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/04/purple-labs-announces-cheap-linux-based-reference-design/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/04/purple-labs-announces-cheap-linux-based-reference-design/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/02/04/purple-labs-announces-cheap-linux-based-reference-design/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


3GSM's "3G For All" campaign lives on in the hearts and minds of companies around the globe that are looking to capitalize on developing nations' nascent 3G networks, and this little gem is a pretty good start. Purple Labs, a purveyor of mobile Linux software stacks, has teamed up with NXP Semiconductors to announce the "Purple Magic" reference design, a flip phone that features 3G data, video calling, media playback, Bluetooth, and a Java virtual machine for a purely theoretical retail price of under $100. Though there's no telling who'll pick up the platform -- or when, for that matter -- it's good to see that companies have their eyes on the prize and have the technology and know-how to get high speed devices pumped out for pretty dirt cheap. Look for the Purple Magic to make its public debut at MWC later this month.

[Via MobileTechNews]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clamshellfliplinuxnxppurple labspurple magicPurpleLabsPurpleMagicreference designReferenceDesignMon, 04 Feb 2008 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Azingo launches first platform for LiMo Foundation]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/31/azingo-launches-first-platform-for-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/31/azingo-launches-first-platform-for-limo-foundation/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/31/azingo-launches-first-platform-for-limo-foundation/#commentsFiled under: ,

While Android steals the overwhelming majority of attention, the LiMo Foundation has been plodding along creating a Linux-based mobile standard of its own with the backing of industry heavyweights like NTT DoCoMo, Samsung, and Nokia's new baby, Trolltech. That effort is finally starting to bear some fruit, with California-based Azingo announcing Azingo Mobile, now officially the world's first LiMo-based software stack. Targeted squarely at handset manufacturers, the platform is divided into four segments -- Entertainment, Internet, Productivity, and Communications -- that together form the basis for a modern, kick-ass handset with Linux roots. It's available for immediate licensing, though there's no telling how long it'll take before we actually see it on the street.

[Via Phone Scoop]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azingoazingo mobileAzingoMobilelimolimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxThu, 31 Jan 2008 10:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with FIC's OpenMoko-powered FreeRunner]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-fics-openmoko-powered-freerunner/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-fics-openmoko-powered-freerunner/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/08/hands-on-with-fics-openmoko-powered-freerunner/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


So this is a really early version of the FreeRunner, but mad love to FIC for bringing it out for us all to play with nonetheless. The first thing you'll notice is that it's still sporting its predecessor's "Neo1973" branding, an indiscretion we were promised would be put to bed prior to the scheduled spring launch to OpenMoko's developer community. Anyone used to toting a smartphone of average size could totally get used to carrying the FreeRunner around, which we think is probably key to the device's success outside the enthusiast community. The current build of the software, though, is another matter entirely -- it's in a pretty raw alpha state right now and hugh swaths of core functionality appear to be missing. Then again, they've got a few good weeks until spring, and even then the FreeRunner will find its way into hackers' hands before the masses; they've got some solid-feeling, solid-spec'd hardware here and we're still really hopeful that the final product is going to rock.

Gallery: Hands-on with FIC's OpenMoko-powered FreeRunner

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2008Ces2008featuresficfreerunnerhands onhands-onHandsOnlinuxneoneo1973openmokoTue, 08 Jan 2008 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Wistron NeWeb's GW4 Linux phone]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/hands-on-with-wistron-newebs-gw4-linux-phone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/hands-on-with-wistron-newebs-gw4-linux-phone/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/hands-on-with-wistron-newebs-gw4-linux-phone/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Though it bears a vague resemblance to the utterly nonexistent device pictured in Android's emulator, rest assured: the GW4 QWERTY phone from Wistron NeWeb doesn't run Google kit. It does however run some other homegrown flavor of Linux, giving promise that it could end up as a nice little clean slate on which to drop an Android image when the time comes. Like the physical phone itself, the existing UI seems really functional, if not a little rough around the edges; you get VoIP, weather and stock widgets, WiFi, and Bluetooth, though you won't find any HSDPA, UMTS, or even EDGE here. Not a bad effort, guys -- keep crackin' and we might see you fighting for market share with the OpenMoko types of the world.

Gallery: Hands-on with Wistron NeWeb's GW4 Linux phone

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2008Ces2008featuresgw4hands onhands-onHandsOnlinuxnewebwistronwistron newebWistronNewebMon, 07 Jan 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TrollTech, Huawei join LiMo Foundation, forces align against Android]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/trolltech-huawei-join-limo-foundation-forces-align-against-and/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/trolltech-huawei-join-limo-foundation-forces-align-against-and/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/trolltech-huawei-join-limo-foundation-forces-align-against-and/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Anyone looking to fight the Android machine is likely going to need to roll in the heavy artillery, and that's exactly the kind of momentum the LiMo Foundation is looking to build with an announcement today that they've added five -- count 'em, five new members to their merry band. Most notable of the bunch are Huawei, the Chinese hardware firm just now making inroads into the American market, and Trolltech, the company possibly best known for its now-discontinued Greenphone Linux candybar that develops and maintains the Qtopia platform. Existing members include NTT DoCoMo, Panasonic, Motorola, NEC, Samsung, and Vodafone, giving these guys some serious firepower in founder NTT's ongoing effort to establish a consistent Linux-based platform across its handsets. Of course, the Japanese megacarrier is a member of the Open Handset Alliance, too, so maybe everyone can end up playing nice in the name of open source success after all.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonelimo foundationLimoFoundationlinuxmobile linuxMobileLinuxphonetrolltechMon, 07 Jan 2008 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola debuts ROKR E8]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/motorola-debuts-rokr-e8/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/motorola-debuts-rokr-e8/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/07/motorola-debuts-rokr-e8/#commentsFiled under: , ,


This one's no secret, Moto leaked the ROKR E8 way back in September, but the company is finally getting official with the musicphone at CES tonight. The phone is free of physical keys, with a completely smooth face and vibrating haptics to denote key "presses." There's a nav wheel in the middle, which might not be the revolution Motorola is touting it as, but sure looks nice. The handset has 3.5mm headphone jack, 2GB of flash storage, a microSD slot, FM radio and a microUSB plug. The phone is Linux-based, and Moto is quite proud of its audio fidelity, but we suppose the proof is in the listening. No launch or price info just yet.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsces 2008Ces2008motorolamusicphonerokr e8RokrE8Mon, 07 Jan 2008 01:09:00 EST<![CDATA[OpenMoko to unveil consumer-minded Neo FreeRunner]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/03/openmoko-to-unveil-consumer-minded-neo-freerunner/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/03/openmoko-to-unveil-consumer-minded-neo-freerunner/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2008/01/03/openmoko-to-unveil-consumer-minded-neo-freerunner/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

So far, OpenMoko's Linux-based open source phones have amounted to little more than a twinkle in the eye of Joe Consumer, instead getting fast-tracked into the hands of developers who hope to make the whole package stable and functional enough for the average buyer to give a flip by the time they're widely available. We'd say that's a solid policy -- especially if these guys hope to fight the oncoming Android steamroller -- and the next volley is about to get fired in the form of the "Neo FreeRunner." The spiritual successor to the original Neo1973 (pictured), the FreeRunner is being billed as a "compelling mass market device" thanks to some key additions: WiFi, motion sensors, a faster 500MHz processor, and 3D graphics acceleration. OpenMoko's previewing the phone at CES next week with shipments following on to developers in the spring in two triband GSM versions, one with North America-friendly 850MHz and the other with 900MHz. Consumer sales are expected to happen after that (shortly after that, hopefully) once the dev community blesses it with solid code.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfossfreerunnerlinuxneoneo freerunnerneo1973NeoFreerunneropenmokoThu, 03 Jan 2008 12:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola's Linux-based Ming 2 in Q2]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/18/motorolas-linux-based-ming-2-in-q2/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/18/motorolas-linux-based-ming-2-in-q2/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/18/motorolas-linux-based-ming-2-in-q2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to Bill Chen, General Manager of Motorola Taiwan's Mobile Device business, the second generation Linux-based Ming handset won't launch until Q2 of 2008. Not February as initially rumored. What's more, the handset will be introduced in high-end and entry-level configurations -- unfortunately, both are GSM/EDGE, not 3G capable. DigiTimes says that Inventec won the manufacturing contract of this MOTO Beijing designed handset. Given the unusual (for MOTO) use of a lower-case vowel in the name, there's a good chance this was never meant for Stateside consumption anyway. Too bad, eh?
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijingchinainventecmingming 2Ming2motorolataiwanTue, 18 Dec 2007 04:46:00 EST<![CDATA[ACCESS gets nod to craft NTT DoCoMo's mobile Linux platform]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/11/access-gets-nod-to-craft-ntt-docomos-mobile-linux-platform/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/11/access-gets-nod-to-craft-ntt-docomos-mobile-linux-platform/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/11/access-gets-nod-to-craft-ntt-docomos-mobile-linux-platform/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Well, would you look at that! ACCESS has finally landed a whale of a customer for its overdue, underloved ACCESS Linux Platform, the mobile software stack (and sort-of successor to Palm OS Garnet) that has failed to garner enough hardware partners to make a splash in the marketplace thus far. The Japanese firm is partnering with NTT DoCoMo and ESTEEMO -- NEC's joint venture with Panasonic -- to build a standard Linux stack that incorporates ALP while still using the carrier's existing Linux-based MOAP(L) platform. That's not all, though: they're tasked with making the new platform compatible with the LiMo Foundation's specifications, too. A tall order? Maybe, but it's likely an order that has to happen -- NTT DoCoMo's involved in all sorts of Linux initiatives, and it makes good sense to bite the bullet and have some company tie it all together. The one piece of the puzzle missing here is DoCoMo's tie-up with the Open Handset Alliance, and as far as we can tell, this announcement steers entirely clear of Android's domain. Confusing, yes -- but for a company used to releasing 23 handsets in one fell swoop, it's business as usual.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessaccess linux platformAccessLinuxPlatformalpesteemojapanlinuxmoapnecntt docomoNttDocomopanasonicTue, 11 Dec 2007 03:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Sync folders to your iPhone with iPhone-iSync]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/09/sync-folders-to-your-iphone-with-iphone-isync/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/09/sync-folders-to-your-iphone-with-iphone-isync/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/09/sync-folders-to-your-iphone-with-iphone-isync/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Aptly named app, eh? Yeah, it'll obviously have to change prior to final release to avoid the full force of the Apple police, but name controversies aside, it looks like we've got a winner here. iPhone-iSync's eventual goal is to enable full PIM and iTunes synchronization from Macs, Linux, and Windows PCs to iPhones and iPod touches -- but the interim beta functionality is still pretty hot, offering simple folder sync instead. Automatic sync can be set up, too, which suddenly makes Apple's fanciest iPods among the coolest pocket drives on the market. Better than AFP, is it not? Only Macs are supported with the final beta release that's floating around at the moment, but look for it on ModMyiPhone shortly with Linux and Windows support.

[Via TUAW and Appletell]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleiphoneisyncsyncsynchronizationwifiSun, 09 Dec 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LiPS Forum finalizes Release 1.0 specifications -- take that, OHA]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/08/lips-forum-finalizes-release-1-0-specifications-take-that-oh/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/08/lips-forum-finalizes-release-1-0-specifications-take-that-oh/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/12/08/lips-forum-finalizes-release-1-0-specifications-take-that-oh/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've been waiting so long for the Linux Phone Standards (LiPS) Forum to finalize something, we'd nearly given up hope. Turns out, all it took was a rousing announcement by Google and the formation of the Open Handset Alliance to get those gears a-turnin'. Okay, so maybe those events weren't the catalyst, but whatever the case, Release 1.0 is ready to rock. With the specifications finally complete, LiPS is hoping to "enable mobile industry players to achieve basic interoperability for applications and services deployed on Linux-based phones," and moreover, to allow services and compatible phones to be churned out even faster. Put simply, the entity "targets interoperability through real open standards and specifications, not de facto acceptance of single platform implementation." Bold though that may be, we certainly like the sound of it, and according to LiPS Executive Director Bill Weinberg, the next step is to "complete an RFP for a hardware reference platform" and hook up with a number of hardware vendors to get the ball rolling. Fight on, LiPS!

[Via LinuxDevices]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>linuxlinux phoneLinux Phone StandardsLinuxPhoneLinuxPhoneStandardslipsopen sourceopen-sourceOpenSourceSat, 08 Dec 2007 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola ROKR E8 gets checked out]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/16/motorola-rokr-e8-gets-checked-out/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/16/motorola-rokr-e8-gets-checked-out/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/16/motorola-rokr-e8-gets-checked-out/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Boy Genius scored a Motorola ROKR E8, so if you're stoked about this funky morphing handset, he has the pics. We've seen the specs, but it's nice to get real world confirmation that the keypad actually works and that it apparently delivers key presses with haptics, not just a vibration. Though the language on the handset's OS is clearly English, we're totally digging the virtual keys with the alien inscriptions on them, and how purdy it seems to look in the right lighting. While we still haven't heard a date here's hoping it lands stateside soon.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BGRE8MotorolaRokrROKR E8RokrE8Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's Android platform and the Open Handset Alliance: a quick round-up]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/googles-android-platform-and-the-open-handset-alliance-a-quick/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/googles-android-platform-and-the-open-handset-alliance-a-quick/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/googles-android-platform-and-the-open-handset-alliance-a-quick/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Carefully orchestrated announcements for broad, sweeping initiatives like the one staged by Google today don't always do a great job of diving straight into the meat and telling it like it is, so we thought we'd boil down the Android and Open Handset Alliance sitch as best we could into a tight, easy to digest series of bullets. If this list is still wider than your attention span, though, just know this: you can pick up your Google-powered phone in the latter half of 2008.

  • At its core, Android forms the basis for Google's operating system and supporting software for phones. In Google's own words, it's a software stack.
  • Two separate but related entities form the basis for today's announcement: the Linux-based Android mobile platform (a result of Google's 2005 acquisition of a start-up of the same name) and the Open Handset Alliance, a 33-strong group of device manufacturers, component manufacturers, software companies, and carriers that have committed to working with Android.
  • There is no cut and dried "Gphone" and Google doesn't intend (or at least it hasn't indicated an intent) to enter the hardware business. Instead, it'll leave that to established players like HTC, LG, and Samsung -- and theoretically, anyone else that wants to have a go at it since the Android platform and its code base is wide open.
  • Unlike the platform itself, there's no guarantee that devices based on the Android platform will be open to third party developers. Google says that'll be left to manufacturers and carriers to be decide, although it doubts they'll choose to lock them down (hmm, has Google ever worked with a carrier before?)
  • Nokia, Apple (on whose board Google CEO Eric Schmidt sits), Palm, and Microsoft are notably absent from the alliance. Palm has come out today to announce that it intends to continue to integrate Google services into its future products.
  • Carriers currently in the alliance include China Mobile, KDDI, NTT DoCoMo, Sprint Nextel, Telecom Italia, Telefonica, and T-Mobile. T-Mobile and Sprint Nextel are the two national US carriers that are signed up; AT&T and Verizon are not.
  • The first Android-powered devices are expected in the second half of 2008. Rumor has it that Google has been using an HTC-sourced device, the "Dream," to demonstrate Android to potential partners. HTC may launch a version of the Dream as one of its first handsets to use the platform.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgooglegphoneohaopen handset allianceOpenHandsetAllianceMon, 05 Nov 2007 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Symbian, Nokia, Microsoft and Apple downplay Android relevance]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/symbian-nokia-microsoft-and-apple-downplay-android-relevance/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/symbian-nokia-microsoft-and-apple-downplay-android-relevance/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/symbian-nokia-microsoft-and-apple-downplay-android-relevance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Palm's not the only company that isn't afraid to speak out on the Open Handset Alliance. Nokia, Microsoft and Symbian made it most clear today that they don't perceive danger from the new initiative and corresponding Android OS, with Nokia stating it quite bluntly: "We don't see this as a threat." Microsoft was a bit more on the defensive. "It really sounds that they are getting a whole bunch of people together to build a phone and that's something we've been doing for five years," said Scott Horn, from Microsoft's Windows Mobile marketing team. "I don't understand the impact that they are going to have." The Symbian folks stated the obvious: "If Google was not involved the industry would have just yawned and rolled over," said John Forsyth of Symbian. "We take it seriously but we are the ones with real phones, real phone platforms and a wealth of volume built up over years." UIQ was a bit more optimistic about the OHA, saying that "Generally, it's positive for the industry." Apple wasn't as commital either way. "We have a great relationship with Google and this doesn't change anything," said Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris. "They are certainly an important partner for iPhone."
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapplegooglemicrosoftnokiaohaopen handset allianceOpenHandsetAlliancesymbiauiqMon, 05 Nov 2007 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Google and HTC's "Dream" phone prototype semi-revealed]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/google-and-htcs-dream-phone-prototype-semi-revealed/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/google-and-htcs-dream-phone-prototype-semi-revealed/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/11/05/google-and-htcs-dream-phone-prototype-semi-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Sure, a Google-sponsored phone OS in the way of Android is pretty great news for mobile phone land, but what if your really had your heart set on some Google hardware this Monday morning? Well take heart, because Forbes has the skinny on an HTC device labeled "Dream," (most likely not pictured above) which could very well be oft-rumored hardware of legend, and could also be hitting the market as early as next year. Apparently the phone is one of roughly five prototypes that Google had built to demonstrate the Open Handset Alliance software to potential members, and HTC's Peter Chou says in the two years it's been working on OHA designs, "this is the best one we've seen." The device itself, which measures about 3 x 5-inches, sports a touchscreen, navigational controls at the base, and a full swivel out keyboard. When swiveled the screen goes from portrait to landscape mode, but unfortunately that's the limit of info on the actual hardware. The software apparently has "time-sensitive" touch controls that expands your area control the longer you touch. Icons for your most important apps -- which are apparently email, text documents, and YouTube -- are lined up across the top of the screen. There's also some fancy stuff under the hood to keep an ongoing browser session open to speed launch times, and the browser downloads large files in stages to speed delivery. HTC is considering a commercial version of the phone, which we could be seeing as soon as the second half of 2008.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddreamgooglehtcohaMon, 05 Nov 2007 15:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Trolltech sells its last Greenphone, recommends Neo1973]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/22/trolltech-sells-its-last-greenphone-recommends-neo1973/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/22/trolltech-sells-its-last-greenphone-recommends-neo1973/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/22/trolltech-sells-its-last-greenphone-recommends-neo1973/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Seeing the quirky, totally open Greenphone exit stage left brings a tear to our eye, we admit, but at least the torch to a promising successor. Trolltech -- maker of the Greenphone and the Linux-based Qtopia platform it runs -- has announced that they've sold clean out of the handsets having accomplished its reason for existence: hyping Qtopia itself. Trolltech readily admits that it's a software company, and now that Qtopia's out there in developers' hands (and possibly now with a strong ally in Motorola), it returns to its software roots and points in the direction of OpenMoko's up-and-coming Neo1973 open source phone for future devs looking to follow in the Greenphone's footsteps. Of course, the consumer version of the Neo isn't out just yet, but Trolltech says it hopes to be making announcements about support for additional devices in the near future -- so any way you slice it, the spirit of the Greenphone plods happily on.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenphoneneo1973openmokoqtopiatrolltechMon, 22 Oct 2007 00:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola hooks up with Trolltech for MOTOMAGX development]]>http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/10/motorola-hooks-up-with-trolltech-for-motomagx-development/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/10/motorola-hooks-up-with-trolltech-for-motomagx-development/http://www.engadgetmobile.com/2007/10/10/motorola-hooks-up-with-trolltech-for-motomagx-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When you pair one of the stodgier manufacturers in the biz with a company whose claim to fame is a bright green hacker's delight, good things are bound to happen, right? Trolltech has announced that it'll be providing its Linux Software Development Kit -- based on the same Qtopia Core that powers the Greenphone -- to Motorola in support of its MOTOMAGX platform. MOTOMAGX looks to