Red Bend Software says its firmware over-the-air (FOTA) client has been licensed by Motorola for use in forthcoming Linux-Java phones. The vCurrent Mobile client will enable efficient, reliable, and cost-effective software update delivery to enhance the user experience beyond… the point of purchase, according to Red Bend

Red Bend describes vCurrent Mobile as patented FOTA technology that:

• Interoperates with standards-based mobile device management servers
• Decreases update times by 40 percent while maintaining a fail-safe operation to guarantee software updates in the event of disruption
• Utilizes bandwidth-constrained wireless networks by identifying and delivering only the essential changes
• Compresses the new firmware update to a compact package, up to 97 percent smaller than other techniques

The vCurrent Mobile client is embedded in 58 mobile phone models used by 80 million consumers worldwide, Red Bend reckons.

According to Red Bend CEO Yoram Salinger, “FOTA offers unique personalization options for consumers and numerous business benefits and revenue opportunities for operators.”

Jim Eckels, GM of Motorola's XperienceWare group, added, “Great software is just as important as great design — and keeping consumers up-to-date with new, enhanced features and the latest carrier services is vital.”

Motorola confirmed last month that its recently updated Linux-Java phone OS continues to be based on MontaVista Linux. Red Bend joined MontaVista's Mobilinux partner program in 2005.

Red Bend also belongs to A La Mobile's partner network.

Availability

The first Motorola FOTA-enabled handsets utilizing Red Bend's software are expected to be available in the second half of 2007. Red Bend will demonstrate the technology at the CTIA Wireless show next week in Orlando, Fla.

 
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