Rather than be held prisoner to any company’s proprietary software, cellular service providers (which distribute most phones) are beginning to ask specifically for Linux-based handsets, says Michael Sudol, general manager of the group at Motorola PCS that’s focused on Linux. So in January, Motorola released its second Linux-based phone for Asia.

Q: Some wireless service providers, like NTT DoCoMo in Japan, are rallying around Linux. Why?

A: They like a greater feeling of control. They worry that [otherwise] their time to market will conflict with the operating system company’s own agenda.

Q: So far, you have come out with two Linux-based phones for the Asian market. Are you planning to roll out such products in the U.S. anytime soon?

A: One of our challenges has been to globalize the platform — and that’s starting. We’ll ramp up our Linux strategy globally toward the end of this year.

Via: Business Week.

Related posts:

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2. More Linux 3G Phones Coming
3. Symbian/Linux, DoCoMo Orange Seed Smart Phones
4. Aplix Reaches Agreement for Linux
5. Linux Mobile – LiMo – Foundation Announced

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!