The Google’s much talked about Open Source Platform for mobile phones, Android is being challenged by a rival Limo. The competition has started fiercely. 

 What is interesting is that both platforms are using Linux as their foundation. Also the offerings are nearly the same, freedom to developers or users to add more applications quickly and freely.

Android, the first step of Google in mobile phones sector backed by the other 32 companies is a software stack for mobile devices. The Android will have an Operating System for the mobile devices integrated with middleware and key applications. It will guide the users innovate their handsets as the technology advances and make it subtle for cut edge tech advancements.

Limo, the foundation derived its name from the Linux is dedicated wholly to create an open, hardware independent Linux based operating system for mobile devices. It is dedicated to make a platform that reduces the fragmentation in market.

But the underlying question remains the same – what are the basic differences between the two??? The analysts say that the very first reason lies in what the other companies have to offer in these platforms. Google, leader in Open Handset Alliance will provide its other partners (like Texas Instruments or Qualcomm) a fully completed Operating System….a fully functional Operating System that can be made to run applications on it. Whereas the scenario is different in Limo; it will be more of a joint venture. All the companies will incorporate their bit in this platform. The second difference lies in the way collaborations are made. Google is the leader of Open Handset Alliance and in nut shell it is the driving force; whereas Limo is driven by a group of vendors. The other difference lies in the motivating forces backing these projects. The Limo is much focused to reduce fragmentation and enable standardization in the handsets. Contrast to this Open Handset Alliance is focused to bring a new complete solution set to promote open source.

The big question is," Will the two operating systems and devices based on this will be able to interoperate and develop something in conjunction ?" The experts are saying that the use of phrase “Open Source Software” is also a misnomer. To use the application of other operating system, you have to adapt the feel of that operating system.

Despite  the fact that these operating systems are targeted to bring innovations and reduce fragmentation….the analysts believe that these will further worsen the situation of fragmentation, if mobile convergence is scrutinized. What will be the trend that market will follow will really come into picture after these products are onto the market shelves for sale.

Lalit Yadav/ITvoir Network