Plenty of Google Phones Come 2008

Here’s the Google scoop people. More than the details about a Gphone handset, Google actually revealed that what they’ve devolved is a new mobile operating platform called ‘Android’ that’s supposed to be one of the most versatile mobile platforms as well as the most open ended. This effort is the joint venture of a total of 32 companies that got together to begin what’s called the Open Handset Alliance.

The companies that comprise this group, a multinational alliance of technology and mobile industry leaders viz. Google Inc., T-Mobile, HTC, Qualcomm, Motorola and others have stated that Android is ‘The first truly open and comprehensive platform for mobile devices. Android will accelerate the pace at which new and compelling mobile services are made available to consumers.’ The whole idea was to create a platform that makes using a mobile phone just that much easier so as to get everything you need from a singular device.

The Alliance has also stated that sometime next week they will release ‘an early access software development kit to provide developers with the tools necessary to create innovative and compelling applications for the platform.’

"Motorola has long been an advocate of open software for mobile platforms. Today, we're excited to continue this support by joining Google and others in the announcement of the Open Handset Alliance and Android platform. Motorola plans to leverage the Android platform to enable seamless, connected services and rich consumer experiences in future Motorola products," said Ed Zander, Chairman and CEO of Motorola, Inc.

"HTC's trademark on the mobile industry has been its ability to drive cutting-edge innovation into a wide variety of mobile devices to create the perfect match for individuals," said Peter Chou, Chief Executive Officer, HTC Corp. "Our participation in the Open Handset Alliance and integration of the Android platform in the second half of 2008 enables us to expand our device portfolio into a new category of connected mobile phones that will change the complexion of the mobile industry and re-create user expectations of the mobile phone experience."

The phone, dubbed the Dream (appropriate) has not been too clearly defined but according to the guys at Engadget, this device would have a large 3 x 5 inch touch sensate screen with a slide out keypad (presumably QWERTY). But that’s about it. It could be out sometime by the second half of next year. I think it’s safe to also presume that it would have a GPS setting, with Google maps being so popular and all.

With the Open Handset Alliance and Android promising to make the world a better place for mobile phone users, according to the Google Blog, it’ll be about a week before an SDK will be available for developers and it’ll be in the second half of 2008 before any phones with the Android platform will be shipped. Look out Apple, your iPhone may have some very serious competition come 2008.