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GPhone 'Definitely' In The Works, Google Possibly Waffling On 3G

According to shadowy "Taiwanese handset makers", Google is definitely building a mobile phone. The details, little things such as the hardware specs and operating system, are still reportedly being worked out. Furthermore, Google can't decide if it is going with an EDGE device or wait for 3G.

All these "maybes", "possiblys" and "ifs" aren't exactly confidence inspiring, but the DigiTimes gives the sources credence. The operating system of this mysterious gPhone is most likely based on Linux and only the final steps need to be completed before the OS is wrapped up. Since rumors of the Google phone have been floating around for nigh a year now, we have to assume that the hardware and OS are nearly complete. But if Google is seriously considering 3G, then it will push back the launch date of the device.

According to the DigiTimes, Google was initially considering EDGE connectivity and would have relied on chipsets from Texas Instruments. It is now rethinking that decision (perhaps because of the market's reaction to the lack of 3G in the iPhone?). If it goes the 3G route, Google will need a different chip supplier, say Qualcomm, and this will delay the launch date. The gPhone was originally expected by the end of 2007. A chip switcheroo will push it to the first half of 2008 instead, 'cause Qualcomm is obviously dealing with some issues right now.

Among the probable makers of such a device are HTC.

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