In a move meant to speed high-function Linux-based phones to market and provide a viable alternative to both Symbian and Windows for high-function mobile devices, Openwave Systems has ported its graphical application framework for wireless mobile apps to MontaVista Software's Consumer Electronics Edition (CEE) Linux operating system. In addition to providing a graphical application framework, Openwave's suite also provides browser, messaging client, file management, and media player functions.

OpenwavePhone Suite Version 7 (V7) complies with Open Mobile Alliance standards. XML-based customization tools enable manufacturers to define a custom and consistent look, feel, and user experience across the device, says Openwave.

Along with its extensible graphics framework, V7 comprises a handful of integrated components:

• Browser V7 — WAP2 browser
• Messaging Client V7 — supports Short Messaging Service (SMS), Enhanced Messaging Service (EMS), and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) with integrated user experience
• File and Application Manager V7 — Java-based app manager extended to include download and local file management
• RealOne Player for Phone Suite V7 — multimedia player for mass-market feature phones

Openwave says V7 has been validated and is interoperable with MontaVista Linux Consumer Electronics Edition (CEE), which MontaVista describes as including advanced features like Dynamic Power Management, rapid boot, execute-in-place, and tight integration with supported hardware platforms. Leading phone manufacturers such as Motorola and NEC have recently announced next generation handsets and development efforts based on MontaVista Linux CEE.

Openwave says handset manufacturers are turning to the fast emerging mobile Linux OS and development environment because of the security, control, and innovation offered by open source software.

“Handset user experiences available today lag behind the capabilities of most phone hardware,” said Thomas Reardon, vice president and general manager, client software group, Openwave. “Bringing our V7 graphics technology and applications to Linux closes that gap.”

Openwave claims its technologies can be found in over half of all data phones currently shipping. According to Openwave, seven out of the top ten phone manufacturers have licensed and plan to utilize V7 in phones scheduled to ship during the next twelve months.

 
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