Linux-based cell phone drops July 4

According to company specs, the phone utilizes GNU/Linux and comes with core software for dialing, SMS and recording contacts.  Openmoko will supplement these features with periodic downloads beginning with a software suite that takes full advantage of the phone's hardware platform. The new software, debuting at Linux World in August, is expected to provide location-based applications.

Two versions of the phone will be available: 850MHz or 900 MHz Tri-band GSM, to match frequencies in different countries.  Black, oval-shaped and tipping the scale at 6.5 ounces, the Neo FreeRunner features a 2.8" 480 x 640 VGA touchscreen, Wi-Fi (802.1 1b/g), AGPS, GPRS 2.5G, Bluetooth 2.0, two 3-axis motion sensors and comes with 128MB WSDRAM and 256MB NAND Flash.

The Openmoko Neo FreeRunner will retail for $399, and the phone will be sold directly from the Openmoko webshop at www.openmoko.com and via distributors in the EU, India and North America.