There are a lot of phones out there that run on Linux software, but unlike Linux, they are not truly open source. All that is about to change with FIC’s OpenMoko.
“The OpenMoko is meant to be a fully mobile Linux machine that happens to look like a phone. The point is simple, where others have a Linux kernel with a locked proprietary stack on top of it, this one is open, top to bottom. You can use your own tools on it, compile your own kernel. and bang on the bare metal if you are into that sort of thing. Everything barring a few small drivers is GPL’ed.”
In keeping with the open source tradition, software for the OpenMoko will be available across the web – including a certified repository maintained by FIC. Naturally, developers are going to be encouraged to make their own apps.
Features:
- Samsung 2410 266MHz ARM9 with a 2.8-inch VGA touch screen
- microSD slot, Bluetooth 2.0
- Two 1W stereo speakers (in case you want to use it as an MP3 player)
- 128MB of flash and 128MB of DRAM – initially (up to 1GB potential)
- Three hours of talk time
- Globallocator GPS unit
- TI quad band GSM
The device is set to debut to developers this month for $350. A full retail launch is slated for January.
Expensive? Yes. However, with a phone this customizable, it might just be worth it.
