Sprint to have WiMAX Phones in 2008

New CEO, Dan Hesse mentioned yesterday that later this year Sprint will introduce dual-mode CDMA/WiMAX devices. This is a good thing for them as they need to do what they can to be the first company dropping 4G on us. Another great headline in a short span of days for the third ranked company after announcing their Simply Unlimited plan earlier this week. If they end up signing a slew of new customers with their rate plan, they'll need to build up the network to support it and WiMAX sure would help!

Kind of ironic to think about #3 doing so poorly and thinking ahead to 4G technology while company #4 keeps reporting better numbers all the time and they have yet to launch their 3G stuff. Full Post

Apple to Keep iPhone Restricted After All?

With the SDK being released next week, many fanboys and wanna-be developers are expecting the doors to blow wide open and enter a world of possibilities. A world full of mashups, new apps, and new ways of harnessing the technology within the device. How awesome things will be a year from now when people can freely create programs for their phones, and making money along the way! Not so fast.

Word is coming to us that next week's SDK will only be an alpha version with rather severe limitations attached. Most surprising is that Apple’s intention is to formally approve or deny all software releases for the device based off of the SDK. Also, there will be restrictions that prohibit hardware add-ons and accessories. This shuts the door on keyboards and other traditional devices. It's also mentioned that those who jailbreak their phones and develop for the device might even be an advantage over those using the official SDK. According to iLounge, the beta version of the SDK will bow in June, in time for the WWDC.
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Changes to AndroidGuys

Attention loyal readers and subscribers! AndroidGuys will be switching servers next week and will be moving off of Blogger. Get ready to update your bookmarks. AndroidGuys.com and AndroidGuys.blogspot.com will be forwarding to our new location soon. Keep a close eye on the site as we'll give the official launch date soon! Full Post

Apple COO: "Apple Not Married to Single Carrier Model"

In somewhat related news, Apple's Chief Operating Office, Tim Cook, said that the single exclusive-carrier model is not something that Apple is married to. That's news to us. How else would you explain selling a phone at full, non-subsidized price to one carrier per country?

Somehow we get the feeling they don't care a bit about people jailbreaking the iPhone either. At some point someone paid full price for that thing. AT&T would be the company taking the hit if/when the user jumps ship to use the phone on another network. Full Post

New Video of Android Shows Up

Things are moving along swimmingly in the land of Android (Landroid?) and there's new stuff to prove it. BBC's Darren Waters was able to get a first hand experience with the man himself, Andy Rubin himself. He was able to get some video for everyone to see. This incarnation of Android was running on some unknown 3G prototype with a touchscreen.

Check out the bottom, there's a track ball down there! Web browsing looks very nice and has an intuitive feel which should be easy to learn for most folks. Andy also teases us with a mobile version of their 'Street View' mapping. You know the one, panning back and forth from eye level. Considering this hardware was only 300MHz, we're stoked at just how smoothly it ought to run when it hits the newest hardware.

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Sprint Answers The Bell

Sprint has upped the ante in the bidding wars for your cellular business. A week after Verizon and T-Mobile matched their offering for unlimited rate plans, and in T-Mobile's case bested it by offering text as part of the package for $99, Sprint counters by including everything but the kitchen sink.

They call it "Simply Everything," which includes Voice, Data, Text, Email, Sprint TV, Sprint Music, GPS navigation, Direct Connect, and Group Connect. A key to the store will also be given to the first 500 customers that sign up. After hemorrhaging another 1.2 million customers the company is pulling out all of the stops in an effort to slow down the bleeding. Now if they could only address their customer service issues. You can check out a complete article here courtesy of Kansas City.com Full Post

T-Mobile Ends 2007 On A High Note

T-Mobile reports that it added more than 951,000 new net customers in the 4th quarter of 2007, which brings their total customer base up to 28.7 million. You can read the complete article here on Mobile Tech News.

The company also reported a decrease in churn coming in at 1.8% for the 4th quarter, which is down from 2.1% for the 4th quarter of 2006. T-Mobile's CEO Robert Dotson attributes the company's recent successes to innovations such as My Faves, Flex Pay, and it's @Home Services. Good for you T-Mobile!


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What's Under The Hood of Google's Android?

For all of you "techie types" here's a pretty good article on what's under the hood of Google's Android. This comes courtesy of PC World. It's an interesting read if you're into developing and programming. The rest of us will wait for the actual phones. Enjoy!

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Capitol Hill Working for Us Today

Rep. Edward J. Markey (D-MA), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet has started a hearing today that will look to rid us of 2-year contracts for handsets that do not have to be subsidized. Are you listening iPhone owners? Your full price phones could potentially save you money and headaches down the road. And why shouldn't it? The carriers have no money to make up if you are paying full ticket. Would definitely be worth the $100-$150 you'd pay up front, wouldn't you agree?

The bill would require wireless carriers to offer consumers the ability to purchase subsidy-free wireless equipment without a long-term service plan at a price no higher than comparable plans offered with subsidized equipment. The bill would also require carriers to prorate early termination fees to ensure that the carrier recovers the cost of the subsidy, but no more.

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Windows Mobile Virus Alert

Since there are no true Android phones running around yet, we figured that a bulk of our audience is using some other form of smart phone. Here's a little something you Windows Mobile users might want to be wary of. A trojan virus (WinCE/InfoJack) is currently making its rounds which sends the infected device’s serial number, operating system and other information to the author of the trojan. McAfee has been able to trace the program back to a web site whose maintainer claims it was designed to track what type of devices people are using to run applications. We smell something fishy. Have a look at some of the things this app is doing.

• Installing as an autorun program on the memory card
• Installing itself to the phone when an infected memory card is inserted
• Protecting itself from deletion, copying itself back to disk
• Replaces the browser’s home page
• Allows unsigned applications to install without warning

Respect knuckles to TechBlog for this one Full Post

iPhone SDK Delayed?

Much like the update to the Google Android SDK, the iPhone's SDK seems headed for a similar fate with delays pushing the release beyond the end of February as previously announced. Based on this article on Guardian.com the issue appears to be security. The last thing Apple needs is a bunch of applications released that make it easier for hackers to gain access to your iPhone data. Full Post

Google Laying Cable

Along with 5 other companies, Google will be helping to put down 6,200 miles of cable linking the US to Japan. At a cost of $300M, the project will begin immediately. Dubbed The Unity cable, it will connect Los Angeles and other sites on the US West Coast to Chikura, which will then be connected to other cable systems that serve other Asian countries. Full Post

Consumers Will Emerge Victorious in War of Providers

It's been said before that 2008 will go down as the year of the mobile device. Cell phones are getting smarter every generation and the rate of adoption is skyrocketing. Many of the smart phone buyers will probably tell you that they never pictured themselves buying one. Why is this happening? What has spurred this trend? One can't really point the finger at one particular reason as it's a combination of many things happening in the industry.

Everyone knows that customer satisfaction is what drives people to buy or use certain products and services. Now, more than ever, these satisfaction rates are climbing. There are three things that have happened over the last year within the cellular industry that have started changing things forever. Commitment to being open, pro-rated early termination fees, and the price war of 2008 are going to be looked at as the events responsible for the sea-change.

Lately each company seems to be mimicking the next, afraid to get left behind. After all, if 3 out of 4 companies are providing something you're not, then your customers will be looking to go elsewhere. Taking a look at what Sprint did two weeks ago with their announcement of the $119 unlimited plan. While I am not an expert in the field, I can still add a few things up. Sprint was essentially forced to do something dramatic to keep from hemorrhaging customers. Maybe by dropping their prices and offering something so unique, people will forget their less than stellar customer service.

Sadly, that idea will never come to fruition as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile all announced similar, if not better deals within a week. My thought is that Verizon and AT&T made the plan announcements just because they'd rather not be beat at a game they are currently winning. T-Mobile is in no position to jump Sprint anytime soon if things continued at current pace so maybe that is why they were so aggressive in their plans to offer unlimited calling and texting for $99 a month.

How will Sprint combat these other plans? The latest rumor is that they are considering a $60 unlimited calling plan. This could not come at a better time as early termination fees are set to be prorated if they are not already. Customers will be able to switch carriers without that $200 hefty cancellation cost. The burden to retain customers gets heavier every day.

By offering an open network, users have the capability of switching to other carriers without being forced to buy a new phone. On top of that, they don't have to wait until their 2 year contract is up. It's not out of the realm of possibility that you could be switching providers every few months. That is at least, until the dust settles a little bit.
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Techfaith Wireless To Develop Google Handset

Coming off of a record 4th quarter for earnings, the Chinese handset manufacturer announces it will produce a smartphone using Google's Android platform in the coming year. You can check out the complete article here on Forbes. Techfaith specializes in "dual mode" smartphones. The bad news is that originality isn't exactly their strongest suit, as they blatantly rip off designs of other well known handsets. You can check out some screens here courtesy of Engadget. Full Post

34 Weeks of OHA: #8

Open Handset Alliance Member Profiles (Week #8 - Google)
For 34 weeks, each Tuesday, Jordan from fandroid.net will be joining us to offer a profile of each of the 34 members of the Open Handset Alliance.

Company Name: GoogleHow the OHA site classifies them: Software Company.
What the OHA site says about them: Our mission is to organize all the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful.

What they do: Cackle gleefully as the money comes rolling in. The Wikipedia entry doesn't quite seem to do it justice:

“Google is an American public corporation, earning revenue from online and mobile advertising related to its Internet search, web-based e-mail, online mapping, office productivity, social networking, and video sharing as well as selling advertising-free versions of the same technologies.”

Kind of an inadequate description, because the thing about Google is this: it makes a sh!tton of money, and is worth an insane amount. Current Market Cap? According to Yahoo, $159 billion dollars. This site claims that $160 billion dollar bills stacked on top of one another would be 55,333,200 feet high, which wouldn't quite get you to the moon or anything but is still a whole lot of one dollar bills.

Most of this money comes from ads attached to search results. Google does other things, some well, some not so well: Gmail, Google Reader, Google Docs, etc., etc. It's the search stuff that made Google what it is, however – 75% + market share worldwide, such a dominant position that were Microsoft to acquire Yahoo its combined market share wouldn't even be a third of what Google has.

Everything else Google does can be seen as an attempt to add other profitable ad platforms to their core search functionality. Their in-browser email, document editing, RSS feed reader, chat, etc., are not only cool bits of cloud computing produced by an engineer-centric corporation, they also offer Google the opportunity to build a profile around you and more effectively target ads.
What they bring to OHA and Android: Well, they own the thing.

They bring clout, the will to innovate, and a suite of web-based apps that, in many cases, seem custom fit for the mobile platform.

The more interesting question is: why are they producing Android? The easy answer is: “For the potential ad-revenue, of course.” But they already have mobile apps that are widely used, why go to all the trouble of doing the actual OS, an area they have never attempted to infiltrate before?

Well, there is this concept that it gives them more hooks into the user. If they own the OS they can access the SMS subsystem, the GPS subsystem, the Contacts subsystem, and the Browser subsystem, so that when you text message a friend asking where the two of you should go for lunch they know that you have 5 pizza places in your contacts and are currently standing at the corner of 5th and 134th, so that when you go online to try and find a place to eat they can offer a custom answer -- Pagliacci's Pizza is two blocks away and a favourite of yours -- and thereby get a few bucks from the Pizza Place owner for their trouble. Of course, the user can opt-out if they so choose; its an option Google must offer if they want to avoif doing evil. Check out these quotes a USA Today article from a few weeks back, in which they interview Cole Brodman, T-Mobile's chief development officer:

By combining "unique information about consumers from the Web," he says, with "other information" from mobile devices, such as location, "Google believes search responses can be much more targeted for Google, and that the value they can bring back to advertisers can be quite a bit higher." ...Android won't favor Google over Yahoo and other search-engine rivals. [Brodman] says consumers also can "opt out" of Google's "cookies," used to track their movements on the Web.

In my heart of hearts, however, I don't really believe its all revenue motivated. Google is an engineer's company. It's a bunch of folks rather like me: coders, hackers; they're just a lot smarter and a lot better paid. Google's folks are, in the end, into cool-ass tech. The ad stuff is placed on top to keep the money flowing, but many of these guys come up with this stuff just 'cause its a cool idea. Android as we know it, the open source OS, running on Linux, rocking its own Java virtual machine, promising to free up phones everywhere, is the product of a bunch of Google geeks sharing the cool toy they built.

But then, I'm a Google apologist, which is why I write these articles. If you feel so inclined, just ignore my hippy-happy, love-and-clean-code, Richard-Stallman rantings, and go ahead persisting in the belief that it's all motivated by money.

I feel sorry for you, you sad, cynical person. Full Post

Any Device Any App Details to Emerge in March

Verizon is slated to roll out the rules and regulations concerning their plans to open up their network. March 19th is the date given from Big V as when to look for their announcement at the Open Developer Device Conference in New York. No word yet on when the network will officially start allowing the devices.

Is it really an open network if you have to sign off on a device? Kinda defeats the idea of truly open, doesn't it? Anyway. Here's the official Verizon announcement. Full Post

Recap of Code Day

Over at O'Reilly, Andy Oram, gives us a little rundown of the Boston Code Day event for Google Android. A pretty in-depth debriefing, he talks about promises about openness and things we could potentially see. It's quite a lengthy read worth printing out and browsing through. Full Post

Bar Code Scanning May Be Here Sooner Than Later

A few weeks ago Scott did a piece on Google testing bar code scanning in conjunction with print advertisements. This technology seems to be a perfect fit for the younger demographic, but there's no reason why other businesses wouldn't try it as well. Here's an article that further explores it's possibilities, as well as the results of a trial run. This was found on Adweek.com.

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You Need Microsoft To Buy Yahoo

Microshaft. Micro$oft. Microcrap. Yeah, I’ve heard them all, and I’m sure you’ve heard your fair share of insults lodged at the company in Redmond as well. To be fair they have given us plenty of reasons for these attacks. I am personally on my 3rd Xbox 360 after the first two suffered the 3 red lights of death, also known as 3RLOD. Don’t even get me started on Windows. Anyone remember the ill fated and buggy Windows Me? I rest my case. In spite of all these shortcomings however you need Microsoft to purchase Yahoo.

For all of the innovation that Google is responsible for over the last few years, none of it would have been possible without Yahoo and Microsoft chasing them from behind. Competition fosters innovation, which benefits you the consumer. Microsoft can be to Google what Apple is to Microsoft. That constant drive to one up the competition with new products, services, and ideas such as Google Docs or Yahoo Go! That’s not to say these innovations never would have happened without a worthy competitor, but I have a feeling they may not have been released on the same timeline that they ultimately were.

Here’s another example. Do you remember what happened when Electronic Arts won the NFL exclusivity deal effectively silencing their biggest competitor 2K Sports? Up to that point their competition with 2K Sports was getting more intense year after year, and because of this bitter rivalry consumers were treated to such innovations as realistic color commentary from a two man booth, more life like player animations, and overall faster game play. Ask any Madden fan how the series has faired since then, and if they are honest with you and themselves they will tell you that the series hasn’t added any truly innovative features since 2K Sports has been out of the picture. And no the passing cone doesn’t count as innovation. Frustrating? Yes. Innovative? Hardly. If you are a Madden “fanboy” save your comments for another day.

Could the same competitive spark be accomplished if say a company like News Corp. were to swoop in and purchase Yahoo? Perhaps, but Microsoft has more experience in this industry, so they would be able to apply pressure to Google immediately. From a consumer’s standpoint the worst thing that could happen is an unlikely Google/Yahoo merger. While anti-trust laws would likely squash this deal before it ever happened the two have been in talks about some type of partnership in hopes of thwarting Microsoft’s efforts. For those of you who are thinking “Google isn’t worried about Microsoft” ask yourself why they are seeking help from the government to block this Microsoft/Yahoo deal. You can read an article about that here on The Register

For all the ineptness Microsoft has demonstrated over the years, this is one instance where we should be cheering them on, particularly if you’re a fan of Google and innovation. I suspect like myself you’re a fan of both, so let’s all cheer Go! Microsoft! Go!

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AG5 - February 23rd Edition

It's Saturday and that means it's time for another Android Guys 5. This is where we compile what we feel are the most significant posts of the week for your easy perusal. With out any further adieu, here they are!

#1- New SDK Considered Big Improvement
Ryan Paul over at Ars Technica spent some time with the new release of the Android SDK. He claims that there are 'noteworthy improvements' to the platform with the recent offering known as 'm5-rc14'.

#2- AT&T and Verizon Offering Unlimited Plans
Following in the footsteps of Sprint, AT&T and Verizon have announced that they are now going to offer unlimited calling and data plans.

#3- Microsoft Is Jonesing For Yahoo
Microsoft has not given up it's fight to purchase 2nd largest internet search provider Yahoo.

#4- First LiMo Phone Due Within Weeks
Samsung is slated to start rolling out the first Linux based mobile phones later this month or early the part of next (March).

#5- Google To Use Balloons For Wireless Signal?
Here's a fun one to think about. What's cheaper than building a boat-load of cell towers to spread signal? How about putting balloons about 20 miles up in the sky? Full Post

Parallel Kingdom Bringing MMO to Real World

Another geography based game is in the works for Android handsets. Called 'Parallel Kingdom", the game lets players "mine resources, build buildings, craft items, trade goods, meet people, start kingdoms, lead wars, and explore the world." To us, the game's success will hinge largely on how many people actually get involved. What percentage of people have A)a smart phone, B)running Android, C)with this game installed, and D) actively playing?

Head over to the site to read more and check out a video! Full Post

This Week in Open Handset Alliance News (February 22nd Edition)

After the busy week of events from Mobile World Congress, a lot of the members of the OHA seemed to be stuck in vacation mode. Not a lot of news to report as everyone made their big headlines the previous week. Look for the next few weeks to be a little quiet as well. So,without dragging this out any more, here's a few things that happened this week for some of the members of the Open Handset Alliance.

Did HTC create the hardware for the new Sony Ericsson Xperia X1? (PDA Street)
nVidia and ARM bringing 3D graphics to handhelds and phones (Shonzilla)
T-Mobile HotSpot at Home Talk Forever debuts (Wireless Week)
LG drops AMOLED phones (UberPhones)
Samsung u550 added to Verizon lineup (Electronista)
Gaming design from Samsung looks intriguing, akward (IntoMobile)
CFO announced for Motorola (Just Another Mobile Phone Blog)

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Microsoft is Jonesing For Yahoo

Microsoft has not given up it's fight to purchase 2nd largest internet search provider Yahoo. For those of you keeping score at home, Microsoft's original offer of $44.6 billion or $31 per share was rebuffed by Yahoo, as they felt it significantly undercut it's value. Yahoo then made a counter offer of $40 per share and Microsoft as expected rejected that offer. Then we heard that Google might be interested in working out some type of partnership with Yahoo, but this was an obvious ploy to keep the company out of the hands of Microsoft.

Now we hear that News Corp (FOX) is also interested. It appears that Microsoft is set to drop the hammer by starting a proxy fight to acquire Yahoo. Why does Microsoft so desperately want Yahoo? Well, when is the last time you used MSN as your 1st, 2nd, or 3rd search engine choice? Exactly. You can read a pretty good article that covers Microsoft's latest efforts here on CNN Money.

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Balloons Full of Hydrogen and Possibility

When I first read the article on the Wall Street Journal yesterday afternoon I immediately thought to myself "Wow, this would totally make sense." It's a logical move that couldn't come at a better time for the cellular industry. Google is on the verge of revolutionizing the cellular industry twice in the same year. First with Android and now with a potential contract with Space Data Corp.

This is one of those cases where it should have been thought of a long time ago. By putting up roughly 330 balloons a day, they could blanket the country with radio signal and provide users with coast to coast coverage. By beaming down from 20 miles up, the signal would be free from interruptions typically caused by mountains, trees, water, etc. Imagine being able to use a cell phone out on the ocean! If this deal goes through, you'll not have to worry about the limitations caused by zoning restrictions.

Depending on how the 700MHz auction falls out, there could be even more potential. Think along the lines of mobile television, gaming, Wi-Fi, and plenty of other cool scenarios. Google could find themselves partnering up with an actual carrier like Verizon to offer floating virtual cell towers. It could even end up being an Open Handset Alliance deal with Google sharing their radios with T-Mobile and Sprint users only.

Regardless of who wins the auction, nearly $5 billion is needed to come out of pocket before building tower number one. This is where Space Data Corp. is hoping to be called on. Whether the spectrum gets used to provide cellular network, television, or internet services, this is by far a much cheaper alternative to building up a traditional network. How much money and time do you think would be involved in erecting 22,000 towers? An average of 6 balloons per state seems much practical. Google could have these balloons in the air by the time the ink finishes drying on the contract. It should be fairly obvious by now, but I'm a big fan of this one.

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Google to Use Balloons for Wireless Signal?

Here's a fun one to think about. What's cheaper than building a boat-load of cell towers to spread signal? How about putting balloons about 20 miles up in the sky? Somewhere between tower-based radios and satellite signals, a box can be attached to a 'space balloon' that has components acting as a radio tower. Signal could be sent out over thousands of square miles without the worry of mountains, trees, and ridiculously tall people. So why bring this up? Read on.

Google is considering a contract with Space Data, a company that launches 10 balloons a day in the southern parts of the US. Helping truckers and oil companies stay in touch, one of their balloons could replace the need for 40 cell towers. And if a contract with them doesn't appear to be in the stars, perhaps Google will just outright buy them. According to one source, Google is pondering both options right now. And not surprisingly, neither company wanted to comment on the matter.

Check back for more on this one, as we're just hitting you with some of the basic details. Look for more tomorrow!

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Google Android Code Day Reminder

This Saturday, Google will be sponsoring the Android Code Day in Cambridge. The event will take place at the Charles Hotel and is slated to run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featuring speakers on building apps using the Android SDK platform, developers and enthusiasts could learn quite a bit about what's being worked on and discuss some of the challenges that people are facing.

Speaking of challenges, the Android Developers Challenge has about two months left. $10 million worth of booty is up for grabs as individuals and teams have until April 14 to submit their applications to Google. Full Post

Sprint to up the Ante?

Since three of the big 4 carriers announced $99 unlimited plans yesterday, Sprint's unveiling of the $119 unlimited plan just seems downright worthless. T-Mobile will start offering unlimited calling and texting tomorrow for $20 less than Sprint. AT&T and Verizon's plans offer unlimited calling, but no messaging.

A rumor is spreading today that Sprint will combat these plans with an unlimited calling plan of around $60 per month. At a savings of 40% over competitors, Sprint might be in a good position to pick up some of those customers they've been losing. Even with calling only, they'd be offering a whole lot for very little. We hope they do make a move like this as we have a little bias towards members of the Open Handset Alliance. Worst case scenario, Sprint closes up shop but takes the price war to a whole new level in the process.

Hold on to your butts, this could get really ugly and really fun. What a great time to be a consumer, eh?

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First LiMo Phone Due Within Weeks

Samsung is slated to start rolling out the first Linux based mobile phones later this month or early the part of next (March). It should be a pretty good indicator as to what kind of hardware we might expect from them once their Android phones hit. We're excited to see the different software apps that become available. Samsung is one of the founding members of the Open Handset Alliance and has stated that they plan to drop an Android phone in early 2009.

Respect knuckles to OpenAndroids for the article Full Post

20/20 Podcast #9 (Bonus Edition)

Last night Jamie and Scott got together and knocked out a bonus edition version of our 20/20 podcast. That's right, there is a full hour of AndroidGuys goodness to listen to! We liked the format from last time around where we just shot from the hip only referring to bullet points for topics. We did not use any notes, so everything you hear is natural and as it comes. We're pleased with the results and hope that you will be too! If you have a topic or comment that you'd like to see us cover, leave a comment or drop an email. If you like what you hear, subscribe to the AndroidGuys 20/20 Podcast Feed today!

Part 1 (9A) topics: Rate plan changes from Sprint, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, FCC Auction, Wi-Fi, RIM suing Motorola and the iPhone.

Part 2 (9B) topics: The iPhone compared to all other platforms, Nokia and Symbian's numbers, Yahoo, Microsoft and Danger, and "Write Once, Run Anywhere".

Part 3 (9C) topics: Alienware and Dell phone rumors, Starbucks, Wi-Fi everywhere, who's making the first Android phones, Google/Android business model, mobile search.

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Monkey See Monkey Do

The virtual ink had not even dried on our last article when we saw that T-Mobile is expecting to offer a $99 unlimited calling and texting plan. Currently the unlimited text package would run $14.99 in addition to the 5,000 minute plan costing $129.99 a month. That's a heck of a savings for those of you out there eating up minutes, you clock-gobblers.

The plan is set to start effective this Thursday, February 21st. Full Post

AT&T and Verizon Offering Unlimited Plans

Following in the footsteps of Sprint, AT&T and Verizon have announced that they are now going to offer unlimited calling and data plans. One has to wonder if these companies reacted that quickly to Sprint or if it was something in the making for quite some time. Each company is ready to adopt the policies of the next, but play the waiting game to see who makes the move first.

It's nice to see another proactive move on the part of carriers. They are fast realizing how big the burden is on them to retain customers. With early termination fees and open network capabilities, the network providers are doing all they can to look appealing. Now more than ever, Joe Blow can opt out of a contract and sign up with another company without financial strains. Wait until phones can cross networks!

AT&T's announcement came 5 hours after Verizon's. Both offer an unlimited calling plan for $99 whereas Sprint's is $119 for the same.

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Motorola Still Shedding Jobs

While nowhere near the thousands of jobs lost in the last rounds of cuts, 200 Motorola employees will still have to start looking for employment elsewhere. Engadget Mobile informs us today that the center in Schaumburg, Illinois is being hit with the losses. According to their source, customer service, mobile, and lab departments are taking the bulk of the hits.

Is this the last of the cuts or is Motorola getting more precise with their scalpel?

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Opera May Play Role In New Android Phones

VIDEO LINK FIXED: THANKS FOR THE FEEDBACK!

Opera's "Mini" browser has been the browser of choice for mobile users for quite some time, so it makes sense that they would play a prominent role in the mobile phones of the future.

Known for it's speed even on slower networks such as EDGE and GPRS, Opera would be a perfect fit for both lower end and premium handsets, and with Google's "write once, run on many" mindset with Android Opera's low profile would ensure the phones resources aren't being wasted while surfing the web.

Internet Explorer anyone? Click here for video of the latest Opera Mobile Browser (9.5) in action. Check out how Opera totally PWND Internet Explorer in the speed test. They have some pretty cool things planned, so take a look.

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T-Mobile First To Market With Android Phone

While other carriers are taking a "wait and see" approach to Android based handsets T-Mobile is having none of that. The German based company intends to have a handset out by November of 2008! That's the 4th quarter for you Wall Street types. I have a hunch that it will be produced by HTC, and it will most certainly be touch screen based. I would also expect T-Mobile to have this phone available for both the European and US markets. Stay tuned to Android Guys for more news on T-Mobile, Google's Android and all the other OHA members.

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RIM Suing Motorola

Remember a few years ago when RIM was sued by NTP over patent infringements? Then again by Visto in 2006? Well, it seems they've had just about enough of that and are filing their own lawsuit against Motorola. You can check out the complete article here on PC Magazine.

RIM is suing not only over patent infringements, but also what it believes to be "exorbitant licensing fees" by Motorola. They may have a difficult time proving "exorbitant" in a court of law, but we'll have to wait and see. RIM also said there was a direct connection between the increase in licensing fees and the recent woes suffered by Motorola's handset division. I guess if you're Motorola you'll get that cheese any way you can. Android Guys will keep you posted on this one.

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34 Weeks of OHA: #7

Open Handset Alliance Member Profiles (Week #7 - Esmertec )
For 34 weeks, each Tuesday, Jordan from fandroid.net will be joining us to offer a profile of each of the 34 members of the Open Handset Alliance.

Company Name: Esmertec

How the OHA site classifies them: Software Company.

What the OHA site says about them: Esmertec is a leading provider of multi-media solutions and end-to-end integration services that accelerate time-to-market and reduce operational costs for OEMs and Operators.

What they do: We provide software platforms that enable the deployment of content and applications in devices and over servers. Our customers include mobile telecom operators and manufacturers of mobile handsets, set-top boxes and interactive televisions. Esmertec's software and service capabilities excel with its reliability as well as fast and local execution.

Basically, they offer Java-based products for mobile and embedded systems. Their Jbed Java Virtual Machine (JVM) offerings come in a number of flavours, including a JVM and real-time operating system package that runs directly on the hardware, with no intervening bits. A focus of the Jbed system is to deliver powerful multimedia capabilities.

So, they're another Java-on-handsets company. They breed like rabbits.

As owners of Cellicium, they also offer Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) services, the real-time messaging system for GSM phones that is commonly used to enable SMS and other real-time messaging.

What they bring to OHA and Android: They go into a bit of detail on this very question on their site.

Esmertec shares the Open Handset Alliance's vision of enabling innovative and easy-to-use solutions for mobile end-users. We have actively contributed to this initiative with our OMA applications (MMS, WAP, DRM, SyncML, and IM).

The OMA offerings are Open Mobile Alliance standards – Multimedia Messaging, Wireless Application Protocol, Digital Rights Management (whew – and I was worried that Android might not have DRM), Synchronization, and Instant Messaging. So, they have the basics covered.

In addition to Android's open source, Esmertec's leading edge Jbed™ Java™ Virtual Machine (JVM) platform can easily be made commercially available on customer demand for the Alliance 's mobile platform. This option offers immediate and seamless compatibility with the standard Java ME world, leveraging thousands of existing Java ME applications.

For those wondering what a company offering JVM products has to offer a system with its own virtual machine (Dalvik), here's the answer. All those existing mobile Java apps out there don't have to be ported; just slap Jbed on your Android-running handset and all's happy in Java world.

Finally, Esmertec also offers a full range of integration and development services for the Android platform that will help current and future players in the mobile value chain to reduce integration time, ensure operator compliance, and deliver enhanced multimedia functionality for new handsets quickly and cost-effectively.

Here's an interesting angle: Android consultants. No doubt there's great value in this proposition. If I'm a company looking to bust into the Android world, here's someone to hold my hand. Help with porting apps, integration with existing Android features, customizing Android to my needs – a general wheel-greasing.

Sounds like an attractive offer, and one that may make Esmertec a major back room player as Android usage ramps up.

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New SDK Considered "Big Improvement"

Ryan Paul over at Ars Technica spent some time with the new release of the Android SDK. He claims that there are 'noteworthy improvements' to the platform with the recent offering known as 'm5-rc14'.

Even with plenty of work to do and "technical issues to resolve", he says that "Google has now demonstrated enough responsiveness to developer demands to justify giving the company the benefit of the doubt. This second look at the platform and the development ecosystem has boosted my confidence in the endeavor and given me reason to be optimistic about Android's prospects."

Anybody else play with the new version yet? What kind of stuff have you encountered? Let us know in the comments.

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Alienware: No Comment

TechRadar spoke with Alienware’s Mat Bettinson earlier today about that mock-up for a prototype. They were served up the good old "no comment" when asked about the company’s plans to move into the mobile phone market. Bettinson says that Alienware was “flattered by the mock-up”. Adding, the “design is not necessarily what Alienware would do, but it's interesting to see how the artist sees Alienware design elements enhancing another technology product." Full Post

PacketVideo Brings TV to Any Wi-Fi Capable Phone

For user of phones and mobile entertainment devices without TV capability, your day has come. PacketVideo, one of the founding members of the Open Handset Alliance, has demonstrated a mobile receiver device that decodes digital TV signal and re-purposes it for use on phones.

The receiver is compatible with all of the major mobile standards like TDtv, DVB-H, MediaFLO, and WiMAX. Compatible with many phones including the Nokia N-series, Apple iPhone and HTC Smartphone devices, the receiver can be customized with the operator’s badge.
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Samsung Dropping Two Android-Based Phones in '08?

Here's a departure from what we've already heard. Samsung is rumored to be releasing to handsets this fall and winter. A high end model due in September and a lower end model due in time for Christmas. So far, we've only been told 2009 for Samsung. On top of that, HTC is the company rumored to be bringing the first device to market.

Which carrier will get the phones? According to this article, both Verizon and T-Mobile are mulling it over. The first non-exclusive phones from Google might be around the corner however we're not holding our breath over this as apparently the source has an shaky past when it comes to breaking news. One thing that tips us off that it might be inaccurate: Referring to them as gPhones and not Android-based. Google is not in the business of branding a phone (yet).

There are two gPhones slated for release with the first coming in September and the second probably not appearing until after Christmas. Given that the first is the high-end model and the second is cheaper, Google will probably expect to make as much money as possible on the higher-margin units at Christmas before revealing the budget model even exists...

Both will include WiFi, which makes me wonder if a VoIP client will be there, too. The high-end phone will look somewhat like a Blackberry Pearl, but the screen flips up and there is a keyboard for texting. No word on pricing for the high-end phone, but the second model is intended to be less than $100 — AFTER Christmas.

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AG5 - February 16th Edition

It's Saturday again so it's time to hit you up with 5 AndroidGuys we think are worth another look. If this is your first time stopping by, consider this your Cliffs Notes for the last week. 3GSM/MWC has ended and now we start looking forward to the products and services coming in 2008. Android and the Open Handset Alliance are poised to place themselves prominently within the industry and we hope you'll continue to rely on us for your news and opinion. To make sure you don't miss anything important, subscribe to our standard feed as well as our podcast feed.


#1 - Android makes its official debut
Finally! After what seemed like an eternity, we get to see it in the wild. What was the initial response? It's fast and doesn't need much power to run it! Imagine the potential with cutting edge technology.

#2 - Reactions to new SDK are all over the spectrum
In what comes as no surprise to us, Android's new developer kit is being compared to iPhone. This will be one of those cases where you can't please everybody all the time. Get used to it.

#3 - Nokia picks Google for its search
Is it us, or does Nokia seem like they are being really aggressive with their purchases and alignments? Almost weekly, we hear of something else the cellular giant is doing to position themselves for the long term.

#4 - Microsoft likes Danger so much, they bought 'em
Does Microsoft want to make their own handset to deliver Windows Mobile to the masses? Now, if they ever get up enough money to buy Yahoo, we could see a super duper device deluxe!

#5 - LiMo is getting a whole lot more attention than expected
With a full year head start on the Open Handset Alliance, the LiMo Foundation not only debuted 18 handsets at MWC, they also announced 9 new partners. At 32 members, they are breathing down the OHA's neck. Or are they already out in front?

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Addressing the Alienware Phone Article

Let me start off by saying that the design I saw of that Alienware phone is about the most hideous looking phone I've ever seen. In my 6 years of working in and closely following the cell phone industry, I have never been so completely turned off by a design. It would probably do well with the hardcore Star Trek and World of Warcraft fans but not the other 95% of the world. There is no market out there to sell this thing. Dell and Alienware would invest far too much time and money into a device like this only to see it sell limited numbers.


Enough about the device itself. I want to switch gears and discuss the content of the article and talk about how little credibility I find in the piece. First of all, the article comes after 3GSM/MWC yet it refers to being announced there. We know that nothing materialized from neither Dell nor Alienware. There is not one substantial reason given as to why the phone is currently in the works, only rumor and conjecture. There is no 'source' to credit where the alleged specs come from. Where is the basis for 'classic Alienware eye catching design, large screen with high resolution, superb video gaming capability, or fantastic audio?

Finally, the actual prototype. It's clearly not a leaked mock-up when you can see at the bottom that it was designed for the website. Anybody with half a knack for Photoshop could work up a phone design with a taste of Alienware in it.

Please note that I am not saying there will be no Alienware phone. There may be, but it will not look anything like this.

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Rumor Mill Churns Again

Here's one for you to chew on this weekend. Dialphone has some mock-up pictures of an alleged Alienware handset due out this year which will be running Android. No, seriously. That's what it looks like.

For those of you calling hoax on this, might I remind you of something? Alienware was acquired by a little computer company named Dell. If that name rings a bell, you might also remember some rumors flying around just before the Mobile World Congress. Something to the effect of "Dell to create gPhones."

This has to be the most unique looking phone we've seen in a while. Would you carry one of these around?

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This Week in Open Handset Alliance News (February 15th Edition)

We changed the title of our Friday round-up article but not by much. Formerly "OHA News", all we really did was add a few words to the beginning so prospective readers get a better idea as to what's in store when they open the article up. So how about that MWC/3GSM show, huh? All kinds of goodness came out of it. There was plenty to report on in or out of Barcelona. Without further ado, here's a handful of things that went down this week for the members of the Open Handset Alliance

Motorola and Nortel have been making eyes at each other (Wireless Week)
Nokia likes Google a whole bunch (Uber Phones)
Piracy suit names eBay in case (TopTechNews)
nVidia potential buyer for AMD? (Engadget)
Intel offices raided by EU (Pocket Lint)
Network interoperability from Sprint (PhoneScoop)
LG reading minds with new phone (Just Another Mobile Phone Blog)
Review of HTC Touch Cruise (GSM Arena)
T-Mobile waiving activation fees through the 18th (T-Mobile)
Starbucks will let you keep using your T-Mobile HotSpot account for 5 years (Information Week)
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Judging a Book...

Now that two completely different versions of the software developer's kit (SDK) have been released, it's time to assess what's being said about Google's foray in the mobile arena. Did it improve on the initial offering? What changes were made? Does Android look like it's going to live up to its hype?

Around 4-6 weeks ago, there was a lot of backlash surrounding the SDK and how it was buggy, missing vital information, and not quite what was expected. Google's name was being tarnished by bloggers and tech sites as word quickly spread that they were "being unresponsive to the developers" working on Android. After a week or so of hype, the consensus among bloggers and fanboys was that people were just expecting way too much out of a pre-release SDK.

Fast forward to Mobile World Congress (MWC) and the public unveiling. The first few days of MWC had almost all interested parties singing Android's praises as they found it to be considerably fast and intuitive, even on phone technology that was two generations old. "Imagine how fast it will be on new hardware!" A couple days later, Google drops the new SDK on the masses and all of a sudden, everyone divided themselves like some kind of Lord of the Flies tribes. Those who love it and see the future capabilities and those who loathe it and feel like it will end up being an also-ran in the cell phone market.

Did people really like the initial version that much? Why don't they like the new version? I have my reasons and I'd like to share them with you. No matter how hard people try not to, they are going to subconsciously compare every other operating system to Apple's iPhone. For this specific reason, they will be wrong in their assessment of Android.

See, the iPhone is not so much about what you can do with a mobile device. Rather, it's about how it looks doing it. For those who understand and see the potential, Android is a completely different animal that, in concept, offers more. Android is about what mobile devices and phones will be capable of first. How it looks will be secondary. Having an open source OS, you'll see skins and graphical user interfaces all the live long day. Like snowflakes, no two Android phones will look the same.

One must remember that an SDK is only the backbone for how things will operate. A good comparison would be to picture Windows on your desktop without any customization or programs installed. It's up to you to make it run the way you want and look the way you like. And for those talking about all of the security concerns, stop worrying. Linux has proven to be a lighter, more secure operating system than Windows.

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Potential for 2D Barcodes is Limitless

As individuals and teams are busy plugging away with their current Android projects, I'd like to appeal to them. In fact, it doesn't matter what platform you are writing for. Symbian, Apple, RIM, Windows Mobile, or Linux. All can take advantage of this. The technology behind the 2D barcodes has been largely ignored in the United States.

2D, or Quick Response (QR) barcodes have been around for over 13 years yet essentially nobody can tell you how they work. Most people haven't seen them before and the few that have will most likely just say "Oh yeah, I've seen them before. What do they do again?"

Here's a quick primer: They were initially designed for tracking parts in auto manufacturing, but they're now used in a much broader commercial context. Aimed at mobile phone users, the codes often store text and links to URL's. You'll find them in magazines, on signs, business cards or pretty much anywhere you can put a sticker. A user with a camera phone equipped with the right software can scan the image of the QR Code and their phone will respond accordingly, often taking the user to a website.

So where in your daily life could you find it beneficial to use this stuff? Here are a couple of examples that could really benefit from this technology. Real estate agents could put barcodes on their fliers and sheets with houses listed. Rather than just seeing one picture with a price, imagine being directed to a site that has an entire gallery, video walk-through, and FAQ's.

If you've ever stopped at a car lot late at night only to find a sheet of paper stuck to the window of a locked car, you'll see where I am going with this. Mileage, available features, and warranty information might be provided to you simply by scanning the sticker on the windshield. And you don't have to stand there and talk to high pressure salesmen!

Perhaps you're at an amusement park and you need pointed to the nearest restroom. Click the sticker on your map and get turn by turn directions. Looking for your doctor at the new facility and aren't quite sure where to go? You can see what I'm getting at.

Getting back to those who are developing for Android I'd like to say this. Your entry into the Android Developers Challenge is sitting right here in front of you. If I knew how to write a program, here's what I would do: Write an application where a user can scan the front of their ATM card and be directed to the nearest ATM location, taking advantage of the GPS or tower-based location features.

Unfortunately I'm only a blogger.

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Mixed Reactions for New Android User Interface

We were looking at an article on Gizmodo this morning that has a short video showing how the new SDK looks running basic functions like making a call. After watching the video, we glanced through some of the comments from readers as they reacted to how it looks. It seems like this UI is polarizing people. Either it's loved, or hated. We'd like to point out one thing. This is a bare bones developers kit, designed for people to 'sex up' however they see fit. It can be equated this way. CSS and HTML are the backbone for most websites today. It can be very basic when left alone, or it can be some of the most practical and beautiful stuff you'll encounter. It's up to the person using the basic rules and code.

If you were here last week and saw the article on The Astonishing Tribe, you saw one of the companies involved in the Open Handset Alliance. TAT specifically designs user interfaces (UI) for mobile devices and their work is among the best in the world. We know we sound like unapologetic Android enthusiasts at times, but we sincerely think a lot of these detractors will be eating their words within the year.

What do you think of the video and Android's basic design so far? Leave a comment below.

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TI Closer to Releasing Android Device

Take a look at that picture right there. See that? It's the closest thing to an actual device running Android yet. That is, aside from the prototypes we've been seeing all along. Incredibly bulky and completely un-sexy, we'd still rock the crap out of it. Why? Because nobody else has one yet. Imagine the looks on faces when you break that bad boy out. "Oh this? Well, it's the future my good man."

For a more complete gallery of the device, head over to Engadget Mobile. Apparently, Texas Instruments is slated to start shipping this thing to developers within the next two months. Specs include their OMAP 3430 CPU running at 600 Mhz and video output at 720p.

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Android Goodies

While stumbling around the Google Android code page, I noticed a link not yet mentioned anywhere else. It seems our good friends at Google have put together 6 wallpapers based around Android. We're definitely gonna keep our eye on this page as we're curious what other 'goodies' will pop up.

Go download a new wallpaper for your (soon to be) favorite mobile platform! Full Post

SDK Update Has Been Released

Just got word from the official Android blog that the new SDK has been loosed on the world. Sounding like an actual Android's name, m5-rc14, is now available to developers. So what changes can one expect?

Taken directly from the blog...

• New user interface - As I mentioned when we introduced the m3 version of the Android SDK, we're continuing to refine the UI that's available for Android. m5-rc14 replaces the previous placeholder with a new UI, but as before, work on it is still in-progress.
• Layout animations - Developers can now create layout animations for their applications using the capabilities introduced in the android.view.animation package. Check out the LayoutAnimation*.java files in the APIDemos sample code for examples of how this works.
• Geo-coding - android.location.Geocoder enables developers to forward and reverse geo-code (i.e. translate an address into a coordinate and vice-versa), and also search for businesses.
• New media codecs - The MediaPlayer class has added support for the OGG Vorbis, MIDI, XMF, iMelody, RTTL/RTX, and OTA audio file formats.
• Updated Eclipse plug-in - A new version of ADT is available and provides improvements to the Android developer experience. In particular, check out the new Android Manifest editor.

You can submit your project to the Developers Challenge using any version of the SDK you'd like. Full Post

Android Initial Reactions (Meta Review) - UPDATE

Rather than do a post for each tech site out there, we're going to do a meta-review for all of the initial reactions coming in from around the web. We'll dock this one at the top of the site and continue to add to it throughout the week. Bookmark this post or subscribe to the feed as we'll be busy with this one!

It's definitely very promising," an analyst for technology research firm Gartner, Carolina Milanesi, told AFP. "This means that we should be on track to see commercial devices in the second half of 2008. Yahoo! News

The interface was quite snappy — it was almost exactly as swift as the emulated software on any PC — and it looks good and tight with lots of nice transitions et al. Crunch Gear

The interface is dead quick and rather glorious, and while we had no internet connectivity on it, we still were able to have a peek at various applications. In a few words, we like what we see. Engadget Mobile

The one thing I will say is, Android is fast, fast, fast. Like, OMG fast. Faster than any phone UI I've had a chance to play with before. Information Week

... you won't have to wait that long until you can stick it to Microsoft with a Google phone - they'll be out in the second half of this year. Sign us up. T3.com Full Post

Qualcomm Runs Android at MWC

Showing that you don't have to be cutting edge to run Android, Qualcomm was showing off a demo board, featuring 3G connectivity, GPS, Wi-Fi and a number of other elements. Different from the ARM demo from Monday, Qualcomm showed how 3D graphics would enable software developers to create state of the art interactive graphics. Full Post

LG Announces Android Based Phone

LG plans to release this as of yet unnamed handset by the end of 2008 or the beginning of 2009. It should be noted that LG doesn't currently offer handsets for T-Mobile, so could this be a hint of a handset that Sprint intends to carry? Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available to us.

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Android Running on Touch Screen Handsets

PhoneMag.com has video up from MWC with Android running on an older E28 handset. It's a tad bit sluggish when compared to the other prototypes, but that's no cause for concern. The hardware inside that device is antiquated when you match it up to today's current designs. Add another 6 months worth of technology from companies like nVidia, TI, Intel and Qualcomm and you'll be just fine running it later this year.

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Microsoft Still Wants Yahoo!

After the counter offer of $40 per share from Yahoo, it seemed like that was all that was needed to end the deal and put it on the shelf. At nowhere near Microsoft's $31/share, it felt as if there was an insurmountable gap. Not so fast. Seems like Microsoft is countering the counter offer. "So... let's say $35/share and we end this little thing. Deal?" At one point, they were unwilling to pay so much, but now things have changed. Does Big M feel the heat from all these other platforms and feel it's necessary to get this deal done before someone offers $37 or so?

You know, I had a dog one time that would growl if another dog came near his food. He never really wanted to eat it. He just wanted to make sure the other dog didn't get it. I'm just saying. Full Post

All Your Mobile OS Are Belong to Symbian

Remember a few weeks back when Apple was bragging up their 4 million handsets shipped stats? Ok. And yesterday Microsoft announced 14.3 million shipped in last 6 months. Hmm, impressive. How about this one? Nokia says they shipped more 77 million Symbian phones last year. And that's that.

How many Android phones will ship in the first 12 months? Anyone care to wager a guess? Full Post

Just a Little Clarification

Ok, so you've seen the reference models and prototypes from hardware and chip makers. You're following the MWC show as closely as you can from a PC. You're looking all over for an Android phone, a gPhone, a Google Phone, whatever... You might as well stop right now. Do not expect to see an actual device from the 4 founding members of the Open Handset Alliance this week. The companies (LG, Samsung, Motorola, and HTC) have not hinted at anything being revealed at Mobile World Congress. From day one, the target date for Android-based phones has been slated for "Second half of 2008" so let's be patient.

If you're relatively new to the whole Android thing, here's what we know so far. Samsung has promised an Android phone by early 2009 and LG Electronics says the same thing, if not late 2008. HTC is expected to bring a handset to T-Mobile by the end of this year. It could be 4-6 more months before you get to see something brand new. For now, you'll have to make do with prototypes showing off the operating system.

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Packet Video Brings Mobile TV to More Phones

Open Handset Alliance member Packet Video is showing off it's Mobile Broadcast Receiver at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week. It is a small stand alone unit that converts digital TV signals for use on cell phones. The unit is rechargeable, but you will need a broadband access point (Wi Fi) to play back the video. Of course this also means your device must be equipped with Wi Fi, which seems somewhat perplexing to me considering that most older handsets do not have this feature. As a member of the OHA it's all but certain that we will see a variation of this device on Android based phones. Perhaps they will find a way to make it available over 3G networks in addition to Wi-Fi hotspots. You can see the complete press released here.

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Nokia Leaning On Google

In spite of Nokia's not so kind words for Google's Android the Finnish phone manufacturer realizes that business is business, and Google can help them. It comes as no surprise to us that Nokia is embedding Google's search engine into its own search application on 4 of it's new handsets. The N96, N78, 6210 Navigator, and the 6220 Classic. Nokia is well aware of the popularity of Google, so they're giving the people what they want. You can check out the small article here on Techworld.

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No Blackberry For You!

RIM is experiencing major server issues that caused just about half of it's customers to lose service. Every provider was affected including AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. No word on when this will be resolved, but I would be surprised if it lasted for more than 24 hours. Why not use this time to get to know your family and friends all over again? I'm sure they would love holding a conversation with you were you don't check your Blackberry every other second, and they can help you get through your "Crackberry" withdrawl. Oh, and if you're using Microsoft's Exchange Server you are unaffected by this outage. You can be sure Microsoft will remind the rest of the world of this as well. The game never ends, eh?

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34 Weeks of OHA: #6

Open Handset Alliance Member Profiles (Week #6 - eBay )
For 34 weeks, each Tuesday, Jordan from fandroid.net will be joining us to offer a profile of each of the 34 members of the Open Handset Alliance.

Company Name: eBay

How the OHA site classifies them: Software Company

What the OHA site says about them: Nothing. The name eBay kinda speaks for itself.

What they do: “eBay is The World's Online Marketplace®, enabling trade on a local, national and international basis. With a diverse and passionate community of individuals and small businesses, eBay offers an online platform where millions of items are traded each day.”

If you don't already know what eBay is, you're kinda beyond my help. They are, along with Amazon and Google, one of the pantheon of companies that have gone past web success story and deep into holy-sh*t-that's-a-massive-company territory.

But they're a company with spiritually uplifting goals, as well. Check out this bit: “Ultimately, eBay Inc. will raise the expectations—and aspirations—of people around the world as they seek to connect, discover and interact with each other.” Man, that's groovy. eBay seeks to raise the aspirations of people in regards to the profit that can be had from the crap in their attic or by fooling people into paying exhorbitant sums for a picture of an Xbox (I know, I'm cynical).

The crown jewel of eBay's empire is, of course, eBay.com and its many international variants, the online shopping and auction powerhouse that is the locus for tens of billions of dollars worth of transactions yearly. eBay as a concept was a game changer, redefining the commercial possibilities of the Internet and truly making it possible to buy anything online (and, moreover, making it possible to profit by selling anything online).

In 2002, eBay acquired PayPal, the leading online money transfer service. Then, in 2005, Skype was purchased for an astonishing $2.6 billion dollars, an amount that eBay has since admitted was probably too much.

What they bring to OHA and Android: They're one of the largest players on the Internet. That alone should be good enough.

In the auction space, I can't see eBay on a mobile handset to be a big draw. Aside from being able to monitor auctions down to the last minute from wherever you are, what's the point? A killer app, this is not.

PayPal, on the other hand, now there's a great mobile app. Real-time money transfers on a mobile phone? The ability to not only pay for goods and services with your handset, but also get your friend the five bucks you owe? Making Paypal truly mobile puts it in a league where it can start competing with Debit cards or even cash. And if I'm making POS purchases using my phone, and eBay and Google can tap into that demographic information, the targeted advertising possibilities are staggering (and more than a little scary).

Skype is the other killer app, for obvious reasons in a world with WiFi-enabled phones and pay-per-minute talk-time models. As the largest player in the market, Skype has the clear advantage over any competition. In the VOIP universe, the size of the subscriber base is directly related to the convenience of the service. Already Skype offers mobile clients, and most likely they would for Android as well, but what if that client was completely integrated? What if your handset automatically made use of the Skype network to make calls when WiFi was available, or when that call was long distance?

It’s in PayPal and Skype that eBay's membership in the OHA becomes exciting.

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LiMo Foundation Keeps Getting Bigger

The LiMo Foundation announced the addition of 9 more members to their partnership, bringing the total to around 30 players. The newest members are Orange, Access Co., AMD, FueTrek, Open-Plug, Renesas Technology, Samsung SDS, SoftBank and STMicroelectronics. Just short of the Open Handset Alliance's 34 founding members, these guys might pose the biggest threat to Google's deployment of Android. Either that or they act as the slightly smaller step-brother who keeps getting Google headlines and brand awareness. We defy you to find an article mentioning LiMo where Android is not in the same piece. It's nothing but free publicity for Google and pals.

Anybody wanna wager on how long it takes for Google to pick up a few more partners in the OHA? Who thinks Google might just break out their wallet and wave it at LiMo and tell them to put on Android hats?

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Samsung Is Making Money

Not everything is bad in the handset manufacturing business, as Samsung announces double digit operating margins. The handset manufacturer also expects to release an Android based handset early next year. You can check out the complete article here courtesy of Reuters. While they have a long way to go to catch the likes of Nokia things are looking up. Samsung expects to show 11 new handsets at Mobile World Congress. Stay here for pics and specs as they are made available.

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Nokia Will Reshape The Internet, Not Google

Well at least according to Nokia's president and CEO Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo. What makes him so sure of this bold statement? He believes that MAPS 2.0 an application that will be available later this summer is the answer. In an article on EETimes.com Kallasvuo said "By adding context--such as time, place and people--to the Internet, the Web will become something very different from the one you have today." Take that Google! You can read the complete article here.

Never missing an opportunity to bash Google, Kallasvuo had this to say about Android. "Google's Android is still a Power Point presentation." Ouch! Perhaps one of the many Android based phones at the World Mobile Congress will fall on Mr. Kallasvuo's head, but he should be okay. Afterall, Power Point presentations don't hurt all that much.

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Texas Instruments Poised To Be Major Gphone Chip Producer

According to Information Week.com TI is poised to be the leading chip manufacturer of Google's Android based phones. While this doesn't come as a huge surprise or revelation considering Texas Instruments history in handset manufacturing, the article by Alexander Wolfe does lay out some pretty good reasons why TI's OMAP processor is the "right fit" for Android Phones. You can read the complete article here. Texas Instruments is expected to have a working model of one of these handsets in Barcelona today, so keep checking back for pics and specs.

As promised here's a pic of a device running on the Texas Instrument OMAP 3430 at 500 MHz. Thanks to ZD Net for the photo! Don't forget this is a prototype so you will have to excuse it's "rough" exterior. So far we know the device is 500 Mhz, features WiFi Bluetooth, and will show off one button access to apps such as email, web browsing, and messaging. You can check out a more extensive write up here on the Channel Web Network. Full Post

AOL Wants to Play Ball Too

And just when you thought it was safe to stop counting mobile phone operating systems, AOL comes out and says they've got one too. AOL Open Mobile Platform, due out this summer, will provide 'developers with ready access to the tools and source code they need to build and distribute applications across all major mobile device platforms and operating systems including BREW, Java, Linux, RIM, Symbian, and Windows Mobile.

Barcelona sure is a happenin' place today! AOL plans to incorporate its e-mail and video service into the platform, with other Internet applications, like its own Mapquest, Winamp and Userplane. Seriously, Mapquest? Aren't there like only 27 people using that program nowadays?

Source: TG Daily

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zPhone Rumors Start Today

After pretty much getting laughed at by Yahoo! over the last few days, Microsoft decided they'd buy another company up instead. Today, news is coming out of Silicon Valley that they purchased Danger. Yep, the same Danger who makes the Sidekick from T-Mobile.

Let's do a little math, shall we? Hardware(Danger) + Software(MS) + Phone(T-Mobile,etc) = Zune Phone?

Did Microsoft just start the ball rolling for their version of the iPhone killer? Time will tell. Full Post

Starbucks Leaving T-Mobile for AT&T

Coffee giant Starbucks is moving from T-Mobile to AT&T for its Wi-Fi provider. And just like that, T-Mobile loses 7,000 HotSpots. In a deal that dates back to 2002, Starbucks was originally lined up with MobileStar and then T-Mobile. The switch is expected to happen in the second quarter of this year. So what happens to all of the current T-Mobile customers who already had an account set up? Good news! According to Starbucks, they get to keep their accounts.

"In recognition of the many T-Mobile customers who enjoy visiting Starbucks, the Company is also announcing that T-Mobile HotSpot customers will be able to continue to access Wi-Fi services at no additional cost, through an agreement between AT&T and T-Mobile."

Source: Wi-FI Networking News
Source: BusinessWire Full Post

LiMo Foundation Brings an Army to Barcelona

In related news, LiMo Foundation is set to show off 18 handsets from 7 different vendors. Exciting stuff for open-source fanboys! Keep your eyes open for devices from LG Electronics, Motorola, NEC, Panasonic Mobile Communications and Samsung. Full Post

Texas Instruments to Demonstrate Android

The list of companies set to show off Android seems to grow a tad bit each passing day. Rumored, yet never confirmed until today was that Texas Instruments was going to be showing off Android at 3GSM/MWC '08 in Barcelona. Not anymore. TI, one of the founding members of the Open Handset Alliance, has officially made the announcement.

Today at Mobile World Congress, Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) announced it will demonstrate an early look of the Android mobile platform in two forms: a prototype handset based on TI's OMAP850 processor that also includes TI's Wireless LAN (WLAN) and Bluetooth® wireless technology solutions, as well as an OMAP3430 processor-based Zoom Mobile Development Kit from Logic PD. Both demonstrations highlight the flexibility of the OMAP platform's multi-core architecture to deliver high-performance multimedia and sophisticated user interfaces (UI) on the Android platform.

Stay tuned for more! Full Post

Android Makes Debut

Stuart Miles from Pocket-Lint got his hands on the ARM prototype running Android in Barcelona today. His initial reaction gives us AndroidGuys warm fuzzies.

The early prototype that Pocket-lint was shown was running on the company's ARM 9 chip, two generations old, on a device that is unlikely to come to market, however that still didn't stop it performing incredibly quickly. The interface also had a very Apple feel to it, heavily graphical in its interface.

Head over to Pocket-Lint for the small gallery of photos. We're dying to see touch screen versions of this. If you've seen Android in action before, you've essentially seen most of these pictures. If you haven't see it, let us know what you think based on the pictures.

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AG5 - February 9th Edition

It's Saturday so you know what that means... Time to hit you guys with 5 articles worth another look. If this is your first time stopping by AndroidGuys, consider this your Cliffs Notes for the last week. 3GSM/MWC starts Monday so check back often for breaking news and updates. We promise to provide you with anything we can get our hands on relating to Android and the Open Handset Alliance. In fact, to make sure you don't miss anything important, subscribe to our feed. Oh, and if you like podcasts, we offer those too!

#1 - FCC Auction runs hot and cold
First we hear that the auction is likely over with the reserve price being hit. A day or two goes by and then we find out that the regional spectrum now sits at a higher total than the nationwide block. Looks like the spectrum will be broken into regions and sold individually. That is unless, bidding gets going again. A few rounds have gone by without much action. Last time we checked, the rumors were that Google owns high national bid while Verizon owns the regionals. If this is true, look for Verizon to come away with the spectrum.

#2 - Yahoo! Google to the Rescue!?
We found out Monday that Google was none to pleased to be hearing of Microsoft's recent offer to buy Yahoo! for $44 billion. By week's end, the subject began to turn to Google being the company who might end up spending the money to acquire this little Silicon Valley company we're pretty sure we've heard of somewhere before.

#3 - An Android phone on the cheap

Well, that is is you wanna spend up to a Franklin for the phone. Purple Labs, a non-OHA member announced this week that they have a prototype design for a Linux-based handset that should sell for under $100.

#4 - 3GSM / Mobile World Congress starting next week!
Finally, the day for Android is at hand. With pretty much no sign of Android at CES last month, save for 1 phone, many eyes have turned to Barcelona for the much anticipated OS from Google and friends. Look for a handful of designs and working models. Our gut tells us there will be some pretty breathtaking stuff. We'll see if we're right by this time next week.

#5 - Speaking of 3GSM, here's a company to watch for...
Here's a company called The Astonishing Tribe that designs spectacular looking user interfaces for mobile devices. TAT is an official member of the Open Handset Alliance. TAT will be showing some concepts at 3GSM. They'll also be showing stuff with nVidia and Texas Instruments, both of which are OHA members. While nothing has been confirmed officially or unofficially, we have to say this... It feels like there are stars lining up over Spain. Cross your fingers!

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Up to a Dozen Prototypes Expected at MWC

Next week will be the coming out party for Android. With roughly 100 days passed since the announcement of Android and the Open Handset Alliance, things have come together rather quickly for some. So who will be showing off their wares? You can expect to see plenty of players in the OHA rolling in to town to give consumers a glimpse at their 2008 products and services.

Handset manufacturers High Tech Computer Corp.(HTC), LG Electronics Inc., Motorola Inc., and Samsung are all confirmed. We're also going to see chip makers Intel Corp. Broadcom Corp., and Qualcomm Inc. For the most part, the entire OHA will out representing in some form or another!

According to CNN Money, it is expected that up to 12 prototypes for Android will be shown at MWC. And here's your final takeaway class... Just because you're not part of the alliance, you're not prohibited from making phones capable of running Android. Watch for ARM's design next week and see what we mean.

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Two Applications Debut for Android

We were contacted by a representative from Iambic this afternoon. Seems they have a couple of programs for Android ready to go. The first one, 'Tipper' is one of those handy apps that finds itself becoming more useful over time. Impress your friends when you are able to split up a bill and calculate tips based off of number of payers and percentage. Ok, so it's not exactly groundbreaking but with a nice clean look to it, Tipper should make for easy use.

The other application finds itself being more practical yet. 'Googhelper' for Android is a utility that helps you launch different Internet searches using mobile versions of sites like Google, Yahoo! Finance, and Amazon, among others. Another case of simple design with intuitive interface. Programs like this get a lot of play when it's so easy to get around them.

Once you're done with AndroidGuys, take a trip over to iampowered.com to read more about their projects and other applications. You'll find a couple of videos of these programs in action.

Thanks to Annie for the email today!

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Open Handset Alliance News (February 8th Edition)

Holy cow! We are so close to 3GSM / Mobile World Congress that we can taste it. Have you noticed how almost all the discussion surrounding next week is anticipation for Android and what Google is bringing to the show? This time next week we should have a very clear picture as to what the different handset makers are doing for 2008. T-Mobile changing up their T-Zones service (mocoNews)

Samsung Soul appears in time for 3GSM/MWC (Akihabara News)

Google adds 'local' to news page (Google Blogoscoped)

Qualcomm as LTE in their future (PR Newswire)

Spring adds an unlimited everything plan (Sprint)

Motorola hooking up with Siemens & Philips? (GSM Arena)

HTC Magnum fooled a lot of people (Into Mobile)

TI and MIT get together for a new chip concept (TechNewsWorld)

Pre MWC LG KF510 is S.E.X.Y. ( UberPhones)

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About the New Look

Alright, we'd like to take a second to address the new logo at the top of the site. For those of you who have visited the site before, you'll recall that we used to have a completely different looking robot at the top of the site. It was from a stock image, royalty free, and easy to implement. When starting out, it was the best thing we could find.

Times have changed. The biggest problem we had with the robot was that we are AndroidGuys, plural. That poor robot did nothing to indicate we were two guys. Aside from that, it looked nothing like the stuff coming from Google or Android. Using the little green robot from the official stuff as a reference, we created two unique android guys to use as our new logo. Just in time for 3GSM and right on the heels of all this traffic surging we're seeing. Feels more in line with Google and the Open Handset Alliance and we hope you like it!

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Use Google Apps Without Pesky IT

If you work for a company that has an IT department this news may put a little smile on your face. Personally, I would love to try out apps like Opera's Mini web browser, or the new Firefox mobile web browser once it is released but my IT department views these applications as a threat, so they block me from installing them on my Blackberry. While I understand their need to protect their own information as well as their customers, could someone please tell me how downloading a game from RIMS own website is a security threat? Well at least Google feels my pain as they are set to release Google Apps Team Edition that will allow users to download and install Google's popular productivity suite including the word processor, spreadsheet, Talk instant messaging, and calendar. Noticeably absent from the list is Gmail which still requires IT support in order to re-route the companies email. You can check out the full article here on Computer World.

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Talks Heating Up Between Google and Yahooo

You can say whatever you want about Microsoft regarding their faulty hardware (Xbox 360) or their buggy software (insert any version of Windows here) but you can't knock the success they have enjoyed over the years. The majority of PC's in the world still use the Windows OS, and Microsoft Office is still the productivity software of choice among businesses and eduacational institutions. So why is that with all of Microsoft's success and their proven track record as a company Yahoo seems dead set against being acquired by the software giant? In an article posted on Computer World the talks between Yahoo and Google appear to be heating up. This in spite of most experts in the field agreeing that such a merger isn't likely to pass anti trust regulations. You can read the full article here. Only a few weeks ago we were discussing the moves Yahoo was making to become more competitive with Google. Obviously something has changed in that relationship for Yahoo to openly court their "enemy". This should be interesting when it's all said and done. Stay tuned.

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Might Android Look Like This?

We've all seen the screenshots of the Android interface floating around on the mockups and reference model. You know the one with the mountain in the back and the menu below. While it might be cool looking a few people, the general consensus would probably be that it looks antiquated and stripped of any flavor. Enter The Astonishing Tribe. TAT is a group of around 100 or more employees working in Sweden, South Korea, and the United States on projects for companies like Samsung and Motorola. They design mobile user interfaces and they do a darn good job of it too.

It's no secret that Apple raised the bar when it comes to UI. Pretty much any phone that comes out within the next few years is going to be scrutinized and compared to how the iPhone feels. With concepts like those pictured here, TAT stands a very good chance at taking Android to the dance in a very pretty dress. Some of these designs look years ahead of the stuff people with WinMo and Symbian are running around with today.

Remember that these are concepts only. We don't know for sure what the next-gen Android UI will look like, but we're hoping it resembles any one of these. Head over to the TAT Conceptlab if you'd like to see more pictures and video of these in action! TAT will be at MWC next week and we might be getting an early glimpse.

...will be showing off what we believe is the future of social networking and community applications on your mobile device, based on Texas Instruments’ OMAP3430 solution. By incorporating the latest in user interaction design with technologies, such as Open GL|ES 2.0 and multi-touch, in the UI, we have managed to create a UI driven social networking application that will challenge the way mobiles devices are designed going forward...

They'll also be showing with nVidia and ARM. Don't forget, Texas Instruments and nVidia are founding members of the Open Handset Alliance as well. Lends a little more credence to the theory that ARM might be willing to align. Full Post

ARM Set To Show Android Based Phone

The mobile chip manufacturer plans to demonstrate prototype handsets running Google's Android at next weeks MWC. You can view the complete article here on Cnet News. No details were released as far as specs, but could ARM be courting an invitation to join the Open Handset Alliance? Stay tuned to Android Guys for more details and pics as soon as they are released. Full Post

Hey Motorola! 1986 Called...

You guys remember back in the days of Crocodile Dundee, Wang Chung, and Alf? Well apparently the team of guys who came up with the design for the new Motorola M990 must have used that era for inspiration in the new "Smart Rider" device. It looks like a BlackBerry mated with a pair of Blue Blocker sunglasses and decided to smoke crystal meth during the pregnancy. For those who don't follow, we think this thing is hideous and outdated looking. You're never gonna get out of your rut with devices like this. It gets better. Wait until you see who the target audience is...

"with stylish and full features set, it is targeted to a broad band of markets looking for exclusivity like business men, limousines and private cars looking for stylish communication and navigation solution..."

FCC - Electromagnetic Compatibility Test Report (PDF)

So, if you have a car that looks like this, then you'll love the M990. It doesn't even have a cord on it! Seriously Motorola, from the concept all the way to the design, you guys really missed the mark on this one. Here's hoping Greg Brown puts a clamp on stuff like this going forward. Full Post

Verizon Vs Google in 700MHz Showdown?

The latest information we're gathering this morning indicates that Verizon might be the company going around bidding up all the regional spectrum. If you recall from yesterday's post, if the total amounts for the regional spectrum spots are higher than the nationwide block, it gets split up and given to the high bidders of each region.

It's rumored that Google was the company who bid up the price just over the reserve of $4.6B and was poised to take it home. Are the Mountain View boys upset by this? We seriously doubt it. They're more than happy that whoever walks away with it, has to open it up. Oh, and by the way... The auction is not over just yet. So hang in there.

See, we told you this would be fun!

Source: Engadget Mobile | Forbes Full Post

Do Not Be Fooled

The rumors you are hearing about an HTC Magnum device are false. It is a prank done by a few guys from Portugal. Seriously.. 30 hour battery life, an 80GB hard drive and 2GB of ROM? Then throw in an 800MHz Marvell processor, 512MB of RAM, and a 128MB AMD graphics processor.

Oh yeah... the best part is that it weight 1.6 lbs. guys! But wait, there's more! They have pictures of it. It is rather funny to see all these sites who picked upon it yesterday. Sites like Electronista, PhoneMag, SlashGear are wiping a little egg off of their faces today. Full Post

What to Expect From Android

A lot of the hype around Android comes from developers and their geeky community. The main reason for this is because they "get it". They understand just how groundbreaking an open-source operating system is, especially for mobile devices. But what about the average guy with no idea what Android is or how it could benefit them? That's where I come in. I'm here to help you, the typical AndroidGuys visitor, gain an understanding as to what Android truly is and how it will change your life.

Forecasting the Future Using History
The easiest way for me to illustrate my points is by comparing how Firefox changed your internet experience with how Android will change your mobile experience.

Remember a few years ago when Mozilla was a relatively unknown, untested company who dropped an alternative web browser on us? Do you recall how at the time, pretty much everyone using the internet was using Microsoft's Internet Explorer? We had been told time and again that it was the best experience we could get from a browser. But was it? We soon found out that not only was Firefox capable of a better experience, but it was also more secure, lighter, and more scalable. The long and short of it was this: It took less to run and held more promise for updates and implementing features. This is the exact situation Android is in right now. The requirements needed to handle Android are minimal by today's device standards, but the long-term capability is considerably more far-reaching.

Think about all of the add-ons available for you today. With over 2,000 to choose from, you could download and install features to enhance rss feeds, weather, chat, tracking stocks, sports, etc. Need something to organize your bookmarks more efficiently? You got it. How about a better way to manage your downloads and/or uploads? Go get it. For free.

So Tell Me What it Does Already!
The same thing will apply for Android. Even if you solely base Android around GPS and mapping capabilities, you're in for some real treats. Wonder what restaurants nearby serve sushi? Pull out your phone and look! Not only will you find the restaurants along with their address and phone number, but you'll also be able to see who is actually open and who is closed. Using the map, you can get turn by turn directions.

Why not install a utility to locate all of the Fifth Third banks around the world so you'll always know where the nearest ATM is? If you have a fantasy baseball team, plug your players into the tracking program so you can see how well they are performing. We're talking about real time stats pushed to your device, not pulled. Forget logging on to see how LeBron and the Cavs are doing. Just watch the scrolling ESPN ticker you installed at the bottom of your phone.

Like Firefox, you'll also be able to dress your phone up in any way you want. Instead of looking at the address book that comes with it, perhaps you want to use the most recent pictures from your MySpace friends. How about a nice weather program or traffic utility that gives you an idea as to how early to leave for work today? You can bet that someone out there is already working on this.

It Will Take Time
Now, it may take a few years before the true Android experience hits its stride. Firefox did not turn into the preferred browser overnight. And even though Mozilla's program doesn't have the same market share as the blue 'e' next door, everyone knows it's a better interface. Why is it? because it's open-source, that's why. I've always been of the opinion that the hive mind is the way to go when working on projects. It's what drives the web 2.0 phenomenon we're in the midst of. Run through some of the most popular web sites today and you'll see the impact. Digg, Wikipedia, Flickr, etc. These are programs and utilities that work best when you have as many hands in the pot as you can.

Who has their hands in the Android pot? On the hardware side, you have names like Intel, Texas Instruments, and nVidia. These guys are helping shape the cutting edge phones due out from HTC, LG and Samsung. And who is going to provide access to these devices? Why, T-Mobile, Sprint Nextel, China Mobile, and NTT DoCoMo of course! What, you haven't heard of the Open Handset Alliance?

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FCC Auction Has Surprise Ending in Store

Here's what we have so far. The high bid for the national block of the spectrum is standing still with a bid of $4,637,854,000 after 17 rounds. However, the combined bids for the regional blocks now total $4,748,030,000 after 31 rounds. This amount exceeds the nationwide block and throws a twist in. FCC rules state that when the total regional bids exceed the bid for the nationwide block, then the regional bidders win, and the blocks are sold individually.

Somebody wake the President. The auction might have just gone into DefCon 5! We'll keep an eye on the auction for you and report back whatever we hear. For now, the smartest thing you can do is to subscribe to our feeds.

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Sub $100 Linux Phone

Purple Labs, a member of the LiMo Foundation has recently announced a 3G Linux reference feature phone offering video telephony, music playback, high-speed Internet browsing and video streaming at a transfer price below US$100. As of right now, this is more of a proof of concept, or prototype so don't expect to see one available for a while. The best part about all this is that since it's Linux based, it's Android capable! Remember kiddies, just because the Open Handset Alliance members aren't the ones releasing devices like these, they are not restricted from running Android.

If you're dying to get a glimpse of it in action, run to your nearest airport and purchase a ticket to Barcelona, Spain. That's right, Purple Labs will have these babies at Mobile World Congress/3GSM.

"The Purple Magic reference phone clearly demonstrates our combined leadership in the mobile Linux arena," added Wilkinson. "While the mobile Linux industry has largely concentrated on high-end devices, the Purple Magic is the first 3G Linux mass-market reference feature phone available today."

Source: MobileTechNews
Source: Purple Labs

Thanks to loyal reader Todd for the heads up!
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Intel's Silverthorne Due Q2 '08

Described as "the smallest (x86 instruction set) processor we've built in the last 15 to 17 years", the Silverthorne is coming in the next few months. The good news is that the chip operates at lower power with the performance of a Pentium processor. The not-so-good news is that it still operates at a slightly higher temperature than most other handheld chips.

Source: TopTechNews Full Post

Brown to Oversee Motorola Handset Business

First leaked in an internal email to Reuters and later confirmed by a press release, new CEO Greg Brown has assumed control of the handset division and will oversee it himself. Is he going to right the ship and take them out of the storm? After recent news and speculation, it's more likely that he is he going to clean it up and make it real shiny-like for potential buyers.

So what happened to the guy who was supposed to be running the handset division, Stu Reed? He's going to remain with the company and work with Brown on the handset business according to Reuters. For those needing help with translating that, he's going to be the first guy to take orders from Brown. The official 'yes' man.

Lot's of luck to Brown, Reed and Motorola. Let's hope they can turn things around.

Source: RCR News
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34 Weeks of OHA: #5

Open Handset Alliance Member Profiles (Week #5 - China Mobile)
For 34 weeks, each Tuesday, Jordan from fandroid.net will be joining us to offer a profile of each of the 34 members of the Open Handset Alliance.

Company Name: China Mobile Communications Corporation

How the OHA site classifies them: Mobile Operator

What the OHA site says about them: Nothing. There's no blurb. Might be a translation issue.

What they do: Provide mobile service to more people than any other carrier in the world.

They have somewhere around two-thirds of the Chinese mobile market, which, according to Wikipedia, gives them 350 million customers. That's a lot. They also own Pakistan telecomunications company Paktel, which seems like an odd fit, but whatever. China Mobile is the largest company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

They're owned by the government of the People's Republic of China, which may or may not be OK depending on how you feel about human rights and the decline of the West.
What they bring to OHA and Android: A massive subscriber base.

Just recently at the World Economic Forum, China Mobile scared the hell out of a bunch of people when their CEO Wang Jianzhou said in response to queries about what it does with users private information: "We can access the information and see where someone is, but we never give this information away ... Only if the security authorities ask for it." Owned by the Chinese Government + Only if the security authorities ask for it = someone's Chinese ass in jail.

Google's mantra is “Do No Evil.” Now, I don't really think that the Chinese Government is evil, nor is China Mobile; the world just isn't black and white like that, and I have an aversion to ethnocentrism. But “Do No Evil” is as much a PR slogan as anything else, and I would bet that a large majority of the public to whom that slogan is meant to appeal would not consider it an act of goodness to hand location information from a GPS-enabled handset over to the Chinese authorities, who are not well known for their respect for human rights. But, such is the reality of the World Economy that Google is in a consortium with a company that may or may not be doing something the public of the western world would find distasteful.

What do they really bring to the OHA? Moral ambiguity.

As always, we want to thank Jordan for taking the time to do this series for us. Please take a few minutes and visit Fandroid.net and read some of his articles. He has a great site going and we love his snarky tone.

Previous 34 Weeks: #1, #2, #3, #4
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20/20 Podcast #8

Last Wednesday saw Jamie and Scott sitting down to record another pair of 20/20 podcasts. Rather than sticking to a pre-planned 'script' for talking from, we decided to give ourselves a few bullet points to choose from and tackle them in whatever order seemed logical. Our conversation felt more natural to us as we shot from the hip. We're pleased with the results and hope that you will be too! If you have a topic or comment that you'd like to see us cover, leave a comment or drop an email. If you like what you hear, subscribe to the AndroidGuys 20/20 Podcast Feed today!

Part 1 (#8A) topics include how Google Android will fit into the prepaid business model. We also touch on the Dell/Google rumor from last week as well as Motorola's possible exodus. Finally, the developer kit news regarding the extended entry date for the Developer Challenge and 700MHz auction round out the first 20 minutes.

Part 2 (#8B) had us getting into Nokia and Trolltech's announcement last week. Is Nokia competing directly with Google or do they have similar end games? We also forecast a little bit into Yahoo and who might be best suited to buy them and/or rescue them. Skyfire was just a brand new topic when we recorded this so we touched a bit on how it should work. And lastly, we mention and have a little bit of fun daydreaming with the potential of barcode scanners on phones. As we signed off, we had a plea to carriers and ask for lower texting rates. Full Post

Some People Don't Get It

We here at AndroidGuys keep a close eye on around 10-15 tech, gadget, and cellular sites as well as a couple of 'blogs' we like to cull information from. It always surprises us when a site we revere seems to miss the mark rather bad. We came across an article at TechCrunch today that totally will undoubtedly confuse readers. They'd have you believe that Android phones are already delayed. This is completely wrong. Nowhere else will you read this. The truth is, the 2nd version of the SDK is being delayed as is the deadline for the Android Developers Challenge. And that, friends, we reported last week.

Google’s Android mobile operating system is already hitting snags. It is not even out of the gate yet, and the software development kit that programmers need to create applications for Android is being pushed back a few weeks. Because of this delay, the deadline for the $10 million Android Developer’s Challenge is also being pushed back a month from March 3 to April 14.

We're talking about a site that has 644,000+ readers. They've got a staff much bigger than ours and they've been to all the glitzy conferences and shows. Wouldn't you think they owe it to their readers to fact-check something before posting it? It's like they didn't even read their own words or links.

I am beginning to have a hard time telling the difference between Google and Microsoft.

Trying to be inflammatory with remarks just to get a zing in on someone gives us a sense that these guys are pretending to be bigger than they really are. Don't get us wrong, we're not taking them out of our RSS reader (like one commenting visitor) just yet. We'll still check back every few hours to see what they've got. Except, for a while, we'll be very hesitant to report on something from them as 'news' as in the past. The part that bothers us the most is that they have so many readers who might not check the 'facts' presented there against other sources. This is a lesson we've learned to do very early on. C'mon TechCrunch, get your act together.

Rest assured, AndroidGuys will do all we can to prevent stuff like this from happening.

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LiMo Platform Due in March

We haven't quite figured out whether LiMo is Android's biggest competition or their closest ally. Since both the LiMo Foundation and the Open Handset Alliance share a lot of similar members, it's hard to say.

Scheduled to be at Mobile World Congress (3GSM) next week, the foundation will be showing off their software platform. Pretty much all eyes are focused on what Google and partners will be announcing or debuting. Will LiMo steal some thunder from them? We'll find out soon! In the meanwhile, check out this quote...

The LiMo Platform is being readied by mobile leaders working in unison to deliver an open handset platform for use by the whole industry," said Morgan Gillis, executive director of the LiMo Foundation. "The first release of the LiMo Platform combines technologies already extensively market proven within an array of leading handsets. This will enable initial LiMo handsets to register in the marketplace far more rapidly than handsets based on unproven technology. In addition, we are now making the platform APIs freely available to the public in order to begin the widespread engagement of developer talent and innovation that will shape the new mobile consumer experiences of tomorrow.

Wonder what they mean by 'unproven technology'? Google ought to just take a little money, sit down with these guys and the LiPS Forum and make one big beast ready to take on all. Stranger things, right?

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Google Yahoo's Savior?

Microsoft is interested in purchasing Yahoo, but the giant search company has another "alliance" in mind. According to Reuters Yahoo is revisiting the idea of an alliance with Google . Such a move could block Microsoft from any type of purchase. You can read the full article here. I don't know about you but I wouldn't mind seeing Yahoo owned by Microsoft. Competition is a good thing, and if Google somehow manages to acquire a controlling interest in Yahoo that 's one less search company for consumers to use. It's obvious why Google doesn't want Microsoft to obtain Yahoo, so this alliance would benefit Yahoo and Google. Microsoft has pretty deep pockets though, so if they really want Yahoo they will most likely win any bidding war. Stay tuned to Android Guys for more on this one.

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Ugly Phone Alert!

We've been pretty hard on Motorola lately, but not on purpose. It seems like these poor guys can't seem to get anything straight. Whether it be their quarterly earnings, corporate juggling, or their product lines, they're having a heck of tough run right now. Well, things probably aren't going to fix themselves once you take a look at the new A810 handset being leaked online. It's alleged to run Linux, which means, it's gonna be Android capable.

The thing looks like the bastard offspring of an iPhone, a RAZR, and a BlackBerry Curve. Look at all the wasted space at the bottom of that thing! Head over to Just Another Mobile Phone Blog for a couple more screen shots. Full Post

AG5 - February 2nd Edition

What a weird week that was. From big news to little news, to non-news, there was a little something for ever day. 3GSM/Mobile World Congress is less than 10 days away so we're getting very excited about what could be in store for members of the Open Handset Alliance. These next few weeks are going to help forecast the rest of this year. All the big guys show up and bring their latest gadgets and phones.

#1 - The auction for 700MHz met its reserve.
We'll have an open network from somebody in just about 1 year. Who that somebody is has yet to be realized or announced, but one thing is for sure. Everyone wins this one.

#2 - Dell and Google sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G
Hey everybody, Google is gonna have an actual phone at Barcelona! Dell is gonna partner up with them! ...What? They're not? Ahhh crap. Oh well. Wait, Dell's not even gonna be at 3GSM?

#3 - Nokia bought themselves a little troll
Purchasing Trolltech for $153 million really opens some doors for Nokia. We wonder if they have a similar plan in mind as Google or perhaps they just wanna take them on head-to-head.

#4 - MIT (and other colleges) are offering classes in Android
Putting students in front of open-source is a smart move by universities. There's nothing quite like what a hive-mind can achieve in our opinion.

#5 - Developer Challenge updates came in this week.
Extending the deadline to enter your project was good news. Getting a new SDK in the next few weeks is great news.

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700MHz Auction Likely Over: Who Won?

There has not been a bid for block C of the spectrum since yesterday's round 17. With $4.71B likely to be the last bid, conversation turns to who won. Let's get this out of the way and answer it like this. Regardless of which company actually ended up with the highest bid and walks away with the golden ticket, the true winners will end up being consumers and end users. It will probably take a few years before people can look back and truly see how monumental this auction was. The effects of an open network will be felt by millions of people whether they know it or not.

Tell us in the comments... Who do you think will be found to be the high bidder? Full Post

Open Handset Alliance News (February 1st Edition)

Do you guys feel that? There's a rumble off in the distance that feels like it is getting closer each passing day. We can't help but get the sense that the Open Handset Alliance (OHA) is like a herd of buffalo. Sure, individually, they are pretty mean, but as a whole, they are much more powerful. One of those "stronger than the sum of its parts" things. The anticipation of finding out what each member brings to the alliance is killing us. Someone hit us up with a leak already!

White HTC Touch on its way to Verizon (UberPhones)
Motorola and Qualcomm renew vows (Wireless Week)
Google/DoubleClick likely to pass (Top Tech News)
Google founders swear to 20 year pact (Boy Genius Report)
Faster infrared speeds from KDDI (PhoneScoop)
Samsung is #2 handset maker worldwide (Just Another Mobile Phone Blog)
Sprint patches stuff up with Clearwire (MoCoNews)
LG has a sexy new phone without a keypad (GSM Arena)
eBay trying to stay competetive, cuts prices (Yahoo!)

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Motorola Exploring Realignment

Officially, Motorola is considering selling off or branching off their handset business. Unofficially, nothing concrete has been decided, yet. You guys follow that? Shedding themselves of the handset division would not necessarily kill MOT off completely. Consider that they still produce equipment for WiFi, WiMax, set-top boxes, etc. After plummeting profits, losing market share, and unhappy shareholders, it might be a good move for them.

All of our businesses have exceptional people, products and intellectual property and the ability to achieve category leadership in their markets,” said Greg Brown, President and Chief Executive Officer. We are exploring ways in which our Mobile Devices Business can accelerate its recovery and retain and attract talent while enabling our shareholders to realize the value of this great franchise.

Motorola Media Center announcement. Full Post