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Google Mobile Phones Debut in Feb?

Posted by CmdrTaco on from the sure-why-not dept.

SpinelessJelly writes "It appears that Google's Android, criticised by Microsoft as vaporware, has sprung to life. Prototype devices are circulating, software developers are experimenting with the SDK and PC-based Android emulator, and there are rumours of a show-stopping debut at February's Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona. Numerous examples of the Android GUI are also starting to leak out."

3 of 127 comments (clear)

  1. Comparisons by AKAImBatman · · Score: 5, Interesting

    While open source provides the heart of Android, its brain is a surprisingly modest ARM 9-series processor running at 200MHz.

    This ignores the fact that most handset manufacturers will probably include a 3D accelerator to improve graphical performance. Google claims that Android has a "highly optimized 3D software rasterizer", but it remains to be seen if a mere 200MHz processor is capable of sustaining the necessary graphical power to provide a smooth experience.

    In any case, it's likely that a 3D Accelerator could save on battery power. Application specific chips tend to be able to do more work with fewer cycles and less silicon. Which means that a phone manufacturer can make the choice of a faster CPU + lower battery life, or a slower CPU + 3D accelerator + higher battery life.
    --
    Javascript + Nintendo DSi = DSiCade
  2. Re:Designs by blake1 · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Android is a platform, not a device.

  3. Easy to develop ... by lakshmanok · · Score: 5, Informative

    I tried Android out -- we banged out a personalized weather application (even without a GPS chip, Android is capable of triangulating satellites to get within 300m of the user's position, which is sufficient for weather applications). The whole process took under an hour and was easy as pie.. So, no it's not vaporware. The hardware may be still be a few months away, but the software is enough to create real-world, practical applications.