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Hands-on with Huawei's first Firefox OS phone, the Y300
The Y300 marks Huawei's first entry into the world of Firefox OS. But unlike ZTE's Open C, this device runs FFOS 1.1 -- not the latest 1.3 build with its focus on stability. Regardless, the Y300 looks like much like its sibling FFOS devices in software and general build quality. The 4-inch handset has a WVGA display, 1GHz dual-core Snapdragon 8225 processor paired with 512MB RAM, 1,950mAh battery and is the first FFOS device to include dual cameras: a 5 megapixel module on back and VGA up front. As we mentioned earlier, the build is nothing special, but that seems to be the common thread for FFOS devices. The Y300 has a black, all plastic hull that's marked by a power button up top and alongside the headphone jack, volume keys on the right edge and a micro-USB port at the base. The FFOS UI appeared mostly unchanged on the Y300, but a Mozilla rep did confirm Huawei had made subtle tweaks including the addition of a rotation lock amongst other minor changes. Again, as we spent very little time with the handset, we weren't able to get a real feel for its overall performance, but the experience still centers around HTML 5 apps and the adaptive search bar powered by everything.me. There's no specific release date for Huawei's Y300 yet, but we've been told to expect a retail launch within the next couple of months. Pricing as well is still yet to be disclosed, but given this is FFOS we're talking about, you can bet on it being affordable. James Trew contributed to this report.
ZTE's Open C is a 4-inch Firefox OS 1.3 device (hands-on)
We knew the Open C was coming before the start of Mobile World Congress because, well, ZTE spilled the beans on it early. And here at Mozilla's press event, we're finally getting a first look at the diminutive 4-inch device and the 1.3 build of Firefox OS it runs. But before you judge its modest specs too harshly, bear in mind these FFOS devices are geared towards emerging markets and are priced accordingly. Owing to its budget nature, the Open C sports a chunky plastic build and, from the looks of the two models we saw on display, will be available in Mozilla's two signature colors: orange and blue. The handset's equipped with a 4-inch WVGA display and runs FFOS 1.3 atop a dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon 200 with 512MB of accompanying RAM. There's also a 2-megapixel fixed focus camera on back and 1,200mAh battery powering it. Update: ZTE just informed us, the Open C will come in a total of six colors, including black, white and fuscia. Go pick your favorite!
Alcatel shows off new Firefox OS devices, including its first with LTE
It's been a year since we first got a glimpse of Firefox OS at MWC 2013, and unsurprisingly we're already seeing some more models show up once again in Barcelona. This time around, Alcatel is making a strong statement to Mozilla about its commitment level; the company's showing off a grand total of four devices, including a tablet concept. All still under the Fire brand, the trio of smartphones range from a budget-minded 3.5-inch device to a nicer quad-core model with 4.5-inch qHD display and LTE. First, let's tackle the latter. The Fire S (which stands for 'speed') is the company's first Firefox device with LTE built-in, and while we're not looking at top-of-the-line specs here, they're certainly better than most we've seen on a smartphone bearing Mozilla's B2G project. The handset features OS 1.3, a 4.5-inch qHD display, 8MP rear camera with a 2MP front-facing cam, a quad-core 1.2GHz CPU and even NFC. The other two in the trio aren't especially drool-worthy, but they're still notable for potential users in emerging markets -- obviously a rather large demographic for Mozilla. The Fire E (which stands for 'elegant') has the same 4.5-inch qHD display as the S, but it uses a dual-core 1.2GHz processor, 5MP rear camera and VGA front-facing cam. It also doesn't feature LTE, as the S does. The C (which stands for 'cost-conscious') has a 3.5-inch HVGA display, dual-core 1.2GHz processor, VGA camera and other basic goodies.
ZTE's MWC plans include new 6-inch Android smartphone and Firefox OS device
It's not unusual for companies to pre-announce stuff that they're going to announce at trade shows, and let's face it -- ZTE does it more frequently than most of its competition. The company just sent out word that we can expect at least two new devices in just a little under a week from now: the Grand Memo II LTE with a 6-inch screen, and a smartphone called the Open C, which will run Firefox OS 1.3. It also made mention of a new version of its MiFavor UI, which likely will debut on at least one or more Android devices at the show. Sadly, ZTE leaves a lot to the imagination for now, but it gives us at least a little bit to chew on for the moment.
A first glimpse of the new 'multiOS' handset from Geeksphone
Though we were able to tell you all about the Geeksphone Revolution's specs last month, the gestation-themed stock photo gave no clue as to how it actually looked. Now, we finally have pictures of the Firefox OS/Android multiOS handset (there's another after the break) and a further description of how it'll work. First off, Geeksphone is referring to the Firefox OS option using the original "Boot2Gecko by Mozilla" name, since Geeksphone isn't licensed to use the Firefox brand or logo. It'll come with Android installed (a version hasn't been specified yet) but you'll be able to switch to Boot2Gecko or "any other community-supported ROM" via a user-friendly graphical interface with "just a couple of clicks." That'll also let you get OTA updates for whichever OS option you choose, along with any additional software packages. As for the phone's hardware, you'll still get a dual-core 1.6GHz Intel Atom CPU, 4.7-inch 960 x 540 screen, 1GB of RAM and 8-megapixel rear/2-megapixel front cameras. There's still no sign of a release date and, more importantly, the price -- that'll no doubt weed out those willing try the MultiOS device from those who prefer the devil they know. Update: Geeksphone has got back to us again to clarify why it's not using the Firefox OS brand and how switching the OS will work, so we've updated the post. See below for its (translated) statement: The name Firefox OS and the logo Firefox are registered trademarks owned by Mozilla. Up to this date, there is no certification process known by Geeksphone for its use by independent manufacturers (not associated with a mobile carrier). When this process is available, Geeksphone will obtain such authorization for its terminals. Since it's a branding issue, code and functionality is exactly the same. The phone may change OS with just a couple clicks, through a user friendly graphical interface. In this manner, it may also receive updates OTA or install additional software packages.
Fireweb, LG's first Firefox OS handset shows up at CES
LG's first-ever Firefox OS handset has already been making the rounds in Brazil, where's it been since October. And while we haven't heard much about US availability on the Fireweb (no real surprise there), the handset did show up here at CES, alongside a smattering of other already-announced phones running the mobile operating system. We played around with the handset a bit and weren't particularly taken with what it was offering up hardware-wise (again, no giant surprise) -- the company isn't exactly offering up its A-List devices for the browser company's nascent OS. The shiny back has a decidedly plastic feel (though it certainly brings it in the gloss department). The four-inch display is a pretty uninspired 480 x 320 and while the 1GHz processor isn't worth writing home about, it does a decent enough job running those HTML5-based apps. At top, you'll find the power button and headphone jack, with the volume rocker on the left-side and microUSB jack on the bottom. As mentioned above, you can pick the phone up now, so long as you live in Brazil, and thankfully, the $207 asking price won't cost you an arm and a lef.
Mozilla kicks off Firefox OS tablet developer program, teases new ZTE phones
As it turns out, Mozilla's Panasonic smart TV deal is just the start of its Firefox OS plans for this year. The web pioneer has just unveiled a tablet developer program that will give dedicated contributors both reference hardware (initially from Foxconn) and other resources; they'll help create the tablet-native Firefox OS in the same communal fashion that Mozilla builds its desktop browser. The firm tells us that it wants to start the program shortly after CES, with a goal of finishing its slate interface sometime this year. The company is also providing the first details of ZTE's second-generation FFOS smartphones. The Open family is expanding to include two upgraded models, the Open C and the dual-core Open II; there isn't much more to say at this point, although we should learn more in the near future. If you're looking for something more tangible, you'll be happy to hear that VIA Technologies has released a version of its tiny APC Rock desktop PC with Mozilla's OS pre-installed. The bare system is available by itself for $59, while those who want it in a recycled case (Paper) will pay $99.
Panasonic will bring Firefox OS to your smart TV this year
Firefox OS won't be confined to small devices for much longer. Panasonic has announced a partnership with Mozilla that will see it launch Firefox OS-powered smart TVs and other "smart screens." The deal potentially opens up the frequently proprietary world of TV software -- since the program guide and other interface elements will be web pages, they won't be limited to any one company's hardware. It should also be easier to write remote control apps, personalize the interface and integrate TVs with home automation systems. Panasonic isn't going into more detail about the hardware at this stage, but it tells us that the first Firefox OS TVs should arrive in the "latter part" of this year.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 to bring LTE and 64-bit support to emerging markets
We knew it was only a matter of time before Qualcomm came out with its own chipset capable of supporting 64-bit, but we figured it'd be in something a little more... high-end. The Snapdragon 410, however, is a 28nm SoC that seems to be focused more on lower-end devices and emerging markets instead. Announced by the company today, the new Snapdragon is expected to sample to manufacturers in the first half of 2014, with it reaching consumer devices during the second half. The chip also comes packed with plenty of extra feature support. First on the list is LTE, which Qualcomm says is a feature it wants to bring to all product tiers. In particular, this next-gen connectivity comes with multimode and multiband support, ensuring that many devices carrying the chip will work on LTE networks around the globe (a feature we assume will be up to the OEM to enable). In addition, the Snapdragon 410 will feature an Adreno 306 GPU and offer support for dual- and triple-SIM devices, with 1080p video playback, up to a 13MP camera, GPS/GLONASS, WiFI, NFC and Bluetooth. It'll also be compatible with Android, Windows Phone and Firefox OS, and is geared toward "high-volume" devices in emerging markets which sell for under $150. Of course, even though a lower-tier Snapdragon is the first Qualcomm chipset with 64-bit support, we strongly suspect that it won't be too long before the company comes out with new higher-end SoCs that offer the same capability. After all, CES and MWC are not too far away.
Mozilla has no plans to sell consumer Firefox phones in the US
It looks like most folks in the US have a long wait ahead of them before they can take Firefox OS for a spin. Despite ZTE's plan to design a bigger and better phone for release in the country in 2014, Mozilla exec Mitchell Baker tells CNET that there are currently no plans to launch in the US just yet. Why? Well, at the OpenMobile Summit in San Francisco, Baker emphasized that the company's focused on marketing to developing nations, as it's a space largely ignored by mobile heavyweights Apple and Google. That said, several Firefox OS phones (primarily for developers) were sold stateside via eBay in the past, so we bet you can find one for sale if you're truly desperate. Just make sure to switch on your scam detector before diving into the secondary market.
Open source can help the developing world, but it's not without challenges
Many see open source technology as an ideological tool -- a way to promote freedom in a world of closed, proprietary systems. For Canonical's Jono Bacon, Mozilla's Stormy Peters and Wikimedia's Tomasz Finc, it's more about improving humanity. Speaking at Expand, they argued that open code connects the developing world and delivers meaningful local content. However, the trio is also aware of the potential pitfalls, such as fragmentation. They know that a successful open platform isn't born overnight.
Firefox Beta brings new 'Home' design to Android, desktop version gains Firefox OS app manager
Early adopters know that Firefox likes to put new features through the paces via beta versions of its browser. Accordingly, Firefox today announced some fresh goodies for both mobile and desktop. On the Android side of things, the app has been redesigned with a panel-based layout called "Home," which lets users have easy access to stuff such as browsing history, bookmarks, favorite sites and Reading List. There are also search improvements in tow, including being able to select Bing or Yahoo as the default engine -- the only caveat is that this particular tidbit is limited to folks in the US, Canada and France, at least for the time being. Meanwhile, Firefox Beta added "Click to Play Plugins" on Linux, Mac and Windows, meaning that "most" plugins (Flash is an exception) will no longer be activated on their own. Firefox says providing the option to choose the ones you would like to enable was key, as outdated plugins are a big source of security vulnerabilities. Rounding things up on the desktop is the Firefox OS app manager, a novel tool for developers to test and tinker with those HMTL5 apps straight from the Firefox browser. All that sound good? Then follow the source links below, where you'll find a way to download each variant of the experimental application.
LG unveils the Fireweb, its first Firefox OS smartphone (video)
So far, Firefox OS has been limited to ultra-basic smartphones like the ZTE Open. LG is expanding the platform's reach today by releasing its inaugural Mozilla-powered handset, the Fireweb. The 4-inch device is still designed for newcomers between its 480 x 320 display, 1GHz Qualcomm processor and 4GB of expandable storage. However, its 5-megapixel camera is a big improvement over shooters in preceding phones -- this is the first Firefox OS phone with both autofocusing and an LED flash. Appropriately, LG is pricing the Fireweb above its simpler counterparts. Vivo Brazil is selling the Fireweb today for $449 BRL ($207 US) to pay-as-you-go customers, or $129 BRL ($59 US) to regular subscribers. It's now more expensive than LG's cheapest Android device, the $399 BRL ($184) Optimus L3 II. Hop past the break for both a video demo of the Fireweb and details of a Firefox OS market expansion that now includes Brazil, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay. Update: We've tweaked the post to reflect that the handset has 4GB of storage, not 2GB as previously noted.
Firefox OS 1.1 arrives, bearing MMS support and performance enhancements
Firefox OS is unquestionably a work in progress, but with a point upgrade a few weeks after launch (and the release of the ZTE Open), at least we can confirm that Mozilla is, in fact, putting the work in. The 1.1 version of the software is available now for users of the mobile operating system, featuring a number of enhancements. At the top of the list is the arrival of MMS support, letting you send and receive images, audio and video files and the like via messages. Performance has also been enhanced, with smoother scrolling and faster load times. There's music search built in now, too, plus an API for push notifications for app developers. All that, plus improvements to email, contact management, calendar and keyboard. If you want to drill down on any of the above, have a look at the source link below.
Daily Roundup: ZTE Open review, Twitter's $1 billion IPO, Samsung spies on Apple / Nokia documents and more!
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
ZTE Open review: Firefox OS gets off to a modest but promising start
As the first Firefox OS smartphone, the ZTE Open is an ambassador for its platform: it's built to prove that web apps can do the hard work of their native equivalents. It's also geared toward first-time smartphone owners with its simple interface and an $80 unlocked price. This combination of open, standards-based software and affordable hardware sounds like a dream for both developers and newcomers alike. But is that how it works in practice? Read our review and you'll find out.
ZTE planning bigger, better Firefox OS phone for US release next year
ZTE is one of the few companies making a sly side-bet on Firefox OS, and next year it's planning to double-down on that initial wager with the launch of a second handset running Mozilla's smartphone platform. Speaking with IDG's Michael Kan at Expo Comm China 2013, ZTE's Executive VP He Shiyou expects the device to land first half 2014, with a larger display than its predecessor, a dual-core processor, a "revamped user experience" and, of course, a low price. The exec also said that, with approximately 100,000 units sold, demand for the ZTE Open "has exceeded supply," and he anticipates double that figure in total sales. ZTE deliberately manufactured the Open on a small scale, but is optimistic about future adoption of Firefox OS. Shiyou believes HTML5-based apps will become more relevant as speedy network technology like LTE reduces reliance on native software, stating: "In the future, the app store business model will be no more."
Mozilla's 'Phone for Apps' initiative hits phase two, lures devs into porting HTML5 apps to Firefox OS
Firefox has certainly taken some pretty huge steps since Mozilla initially announced its "Phone for Apps" program back in May. Still, the browser maker knows there's a lot to be done before the mobile OS becomes more of a household entity. To help it achieve that, Mozilla's launching phase two of the "Phone for Apps" initiative, offering developers a Firefox OS device -- in this case the Geeksphone Keon -- in exchange for porting their HTML5 apps to the young platform. More specifically, this qualifies devs who have "already built and shipped an HTML5 web app and have the time now to port that app to the new Firefox OS." Is this you? Then here's what's left to do: click the source below to peruse the rest of the guidelines, fill out the application and, if you're amongst the chosen group, expect a confirmation to reach your inbox sometime thereafter.
Mozilla aims to socialize app shopping with Marketplace for Firefox OS (video)
Firefox OS has an uphill battle to impress consumers, and Mozilla is hoping that the social app store it's developing will be the thing that sets it apart. Marketplace designer Liu Liu took to Mozilla's blog to discuss the team's decision to focus on "the feed," which appears to share content much like a social media site. In this brave new Marketplace, users would be able to customize their homepages, receive personalized suggestions, like specific apps and view download statistics. To create a friendlier environment, Mozilla has also included profile photos so you can put a face to the name behind the apps. Liu was careful to point out that the Marketplace prototype is, for the time being, a concept, not a product, and it'll certainly undergo several rounds of revisions before it's ready to unleash upon the world. To learn more, read Liu's blog post at the source or check out the video after the break.
PSA: ZTE Open Firefox phone now available on eBay in the US and UK
The Spanish had first dibs on ZTE's Open smartphone, but earlier this month we were told Americans and Brits would eventually be able to buy the Firefox OS device through ZTE's local eBay storefronts. Well, the pages are now live, so in exchange for $80 or £60 (delivery is free), you can get yourself an unlocked Open in the eBay-exclusive orange hue; and, if the stock figures represent all ZTE has to hawk, it appears this initial batch will sell out before too long. We wouldn't say the handset's performance is good enough to disguise its miserly specs, but having a new mobile OS to poke around in for well under a Benjamin? Let's just say that we're having a hard time suppressing the impulse-buy urge. [Thanks, Steve]
