Google's entry into the smartphone arena is set for a sneak preview on Monday at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Google's open-source alliance of more than 30 companies world-wide is developing the Android platform to challenge Apple's iPhone and Nokia--which is positioning itself as a leader in content as well as device manufacturing. Few commentators have noticed Nokia's purchases of Navteq (the information provider behind Mapquest, Google Maps, and others) and Trolltech, as they move from device maker to be a location-based content provider across multiple phone platforms.
What does this mean to lawyers and their firms? Competition for RIM's Blackberries, Apple iPhones, and Palm and Windows Mobile devices. Competition brings more choices, often better choices, and lower pricing. Google's so-called "gPhone" is expected in the second half of 2008, and Nokia's acquisitions will speed development of additional application in their phones and in others'. RIM is not standing still waiting for these competitors; witness their new designs reported by Engadget.
2008 is shaping up to be an exciting year for new mobile devices for busy lawyers.
