The continued software battle in the mobile phone industry still hasn't reached maturity, but the number of companies involved is expanding even further.
Motorola, once a mobile phone powerhouse, has faced increased pressure it hasn't been able to properly respond to. To help keep up with fast-paced times, the company has temporarily put the Microsoft Windows Mobile OS on the back burner, and instead has shifted focus to the Google Android OS, an IDG report says.
Cost isn't a major issue, but innovation related to Android's open platform -- meaning even more developers are likely to be involved -- is a driving factor behind Android's growing popularity in the mobile industry.
"We will deliver the vast majority of our devices in 2010 on Android, Motorola co-CEO Sanjay Jha said during a recent Motorola event. The company recently introduced the Android-powered Cliq phone, and expects to announce another Android phone sometime before the end of the year.
I'm a current Research In Motion BlackBerry smartphone owner, but have watched Android's development with a definite interest. I especially like that anyone who wants to become involved can help contribute to the OS, which obviously isn't available with Microsoft, RIM, and Nokia's mobile devices.
If Motorola is serious about becoming a major force in the mobile industry again, then its reliance on Android will likely decide whether the company is able to sink or swim. The company might choose another mobile platform in the future, possibly Windows Mobile, but all eyes will be on Motorola's Android devices in the near term.
