At the core of Google’s phone efforts is an operating system for mobile phones that will be based on open-source Linux software, according to industry executives familiar with the project.
In addition, Google is expected to develop mobile versions of its applications that go well beyond the mobile search and map software it offers today. Those applications may include a Web browser to run on cellphones.
While Google has built phone prototypes to test its software and show off its technology to manufacturers, the company is not likely to make the phones itself, according to analysts.
In short, Google is not creating a gadget to rival the iPhone, but rather creating software that will be an alternative to Windows Mobile from Microsoft and other operating systems, which are built into phones sold by many manufacturers. And unlike Microsoft, Google is not expected to charge phone makers a licensing fee for the software.
Summary: http://trailfire.com/rowanrook/trailview/46605
At the core of Google’s phone efforts is an operating system for mobile phones that will be based on open-source Linux software, according to industry executives familiar with the project.
In addition, Google is expected to develop mobile versions of its applications that go well beyond the mobile search and map software it offers today. Those applications may include a Web browser to run on cellphones.
While Google has built phone prototypes to test its software and show off its technology to manufacturers, the company is not likely to make the phones itself, according to analysts.
In short, Google is not creating a gadget to rival the iPhone, but rather creating software that will be an alternative to Windows Mobile from Microsoft and other operating systems, which are built into phones sold by many manufacturers. And unlike Microsoft, Google is not expected to charge phone makers a licensing fee for the software.
Independent programmers in the community recently achieved Palm's goal of running Linux on Palm devices. Linux is an alternative interface to Palm and Windows Mobile operating systems, which allows you to control and navigate basic Palm device functions. The thrust of their efforts have been with Lifedrive and TX. But they have had some (limited) success with both the Treo 650 and 680 smartphones as well.
The most recent success has been with "Cocoboot" version 4, released on 18 July. A Palm bootloader, Cocoboot will start the boot process, halt Palm (garnet), and start loading Linux from your SD card.
The most amazing part is "Opie." "Opie" stands for Open Palm Integrated Environment and is a completely Open Source based graphical user environment for PDA's and other devices running Linux. According to the Opie website, highlights include:
- Sophisticated PIM framework (including an easy to use access API) with addressbook, todolist, today, mail, drawpad, datebook, texteditor and search-all-facility
- Today application featuring plugins for dates, todos, mail, birthdays, weather and stock values
- Multimedia capabilities provided by the xine based based opieplayer2 (featuring streaming audio and video) and image viewer
- Palmdoc compatible opie-reader for ebook reading and, in cooperation with eg. jpluckx (http://jpluck.sourceforge.net) daily news coverage
- Linux shell/terminal providing access to the operating system (for those who care)
- Network based installation and setup management
- PDF reader based on xpdf
- IRC client, konqueror web browser an mail reader
- Multiple input plugins to ease data input
- Network time support and time correction capabilities
- Full network setup support through plugins (wlan, ethernet, ppp, irda)
- adaptive backlight settings and calibration (for devices light sensors)
- Advanced security supporting Linux security services
- Syncable with KDE PIM/Kolab, MS Outlook and Qtopia Desktop (3rd party tools necessary)
- Voice memos
- Backup and Restore capabilities to CF/SD cards
- Data exchange with Palms, PocketPC, mobile phones and other bluetooth/IrDa capable devices
- Fully localized
- Binary compatibility with Sharp Zaurus applications
- Themes and styles to adapt look and feel to your personal flavor
Perhaps we will enjoy the Palm device operating system we have been waiting for sooner than we expected!
Related Links
| Garnet VM enables Nokia Nseries users to run thousands of Garnet OS (formerly Palm OS®) applications. Garnet VM supports some of the most popular applications in the mobile market including, Google Maps™, Snappermail®, DateBk5 and perennially popular games like Bejeweled®, PacMan and Sudoku. Choose from a wide variety of application types including, document processors, database managers, messaging, enhanced PIMs, life management tools, and more. |
| Download Garnet VM for: | ||
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BUGbase is the foundation of your BUG device. It's a fully programmable and "hackable" Linux computer, equipped with a fast CPU, 128MB RAM, built-in WiFi, rechargeable battery, USB, Ethernet, and a small LCD with button controls. It also has a tripod mount because, well, why not? Each BUGbase houses four connectors for users to combine any assortment of BUGmodules to create their ultimate gadget. | |
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