The $300 Linux-Powered 'iPhone Killer' Arrives

From Wired Blog, July 09, 2007 | 1:41:33 PM -

After seemingly endless delays, the OpenMoko phone is here. The first version of the unlocked Linux-based NEO 1973 mobile phone is available for purchase from OpenMoko.com. It's not as jaw-droppingly pretty as the iPhone, but it shares a design philosophy -- no buttons, just a screen -- and it's ready to be loaded with any number of open-source software applications.

The base NEO sells for $300. It has a 2.8" VGA touch screen, a micro SD card slot, a USB port and 2.5G GSM quad band capability.

Keep in mind that this unit was pushed out early so developers could begin writing device drivers, custom GUIs and some cool apps for the phone. The next revision, which will be available starting at $450 in October, will be ready for the mass market. It will have WiFi, 3-D motion sensors and added graphics accelerators. So this phone isn't exactly an iPhone killer -- the next one will be a contender.

When it comes to devices, more choice is almost always "a good thing." But will consumers respond to the NEO? Developers are going to dig this phone. But what's more important to consumers -- a super-sexy status item that's locked to one carrier and one set of functions, or a less sexy look-alike with a fully free and open software system?