Texas Instruments backs open mobile standards

Chip maker Texas Instruments (TI) has come out in favour of an initiative aimed at standardising future mobiles so that they include the same key features.

The Open Mobile Architecture Initiative is an attempt to ensure that GPRS and 3G handsets will all offer certain functionality, including Java support and multimedia messaging.

TI has joined a string of other important companies in the mobile scene by offering its support for open industry standards. "It is of utmost importance to create an open software platform for mobile services," said Gilles Delfassy, TI's senior vice president of worldwide wireless communications, in a statement.

Several mobile phone manufacturers are planning to use TI's chipsets in future devices, so its support for the open standards drive is important. According to TI, its OMAP (open mobile architecture processor) platform already supports Java, Internet audio downloads and advanced messaging.

Nokia announced details of the initiative, which involves a number of leading players such as NTT DoCoMo, Vodafone and Motorola, at Comdex on Monday. Microsoft has also offered its support for the project, but has insisted that it must also involve major companies in the PC industry such as itself.

After a difficult year, the mobile industry needs 2.5G and 3G networks to be successful with consumers, so it is important that forthcoming smart phones offer the best functionality possible. Developers are working on new applications that could tempt users to upgrade from the GSM devices, so widespread support for Java and multimedia messaging will make these efforts easier.

See the Mobile Technology News Section for full coverage.

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