ZTE Open C
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IRL: Giving Firefox OS a second chance
When I reviewed the original ZTE Open last year, the Firefox OS experience was -- to put it modestly -- rough around the edges. The device was stripped down even by the standards of low-end phones, while the software was missing features other platforms have had for years. You didn't even get new email notifications, for crying out loud. Jump ahead a year and it's another story. The Open C is a much more powerful device, and Firefox OS has received a few vital upgrades. But does that mean Mozilla's web-based mobile software is finally ready for prime time? I spent two weeks with the Open C to find out if it can hold its own against budget rivals -- and to see if I'd be comfortable using it as my only phone.
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.
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.
