Motorola's new Java-enabled A760 uses Linux as its operating system, and sports a range of advanced features such as an integrated digital camera, MP3 playback and Bluetooth.
Despite being a member of the Symbian consortium, Motorola has long been viewed as unwilling to produce any products based on the operating system, even cancelling a joint product with Psion code-named 'Odin'. Instead, the manufacturer's own Wisdom OS has long been its default choice for more advanced devices, including its 3G phones - but in the latest turn of events, the manufacturer is making a surprising switch to Linux.
 | Motorola's new A760 smartphone uses Linux, and also boasts Java support
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The feature-rich A760 combines PDA functionality with phone-first capabilities, landing the device in the smartphone category rather than being labeled a wireless handheld. Not only does the new handset make use of Linux, however, it is also Java-enabled - and as such combines two of the most popular technology alternatives from the PC world in a mobile device.
In Motorola's own words, the A760 is the manufacturer's first handset demonstrating the company's commitment to making the Linux operating system "a key pillar" of its handset software strategy. This indicates a loss of interest in the Symbian OS platform, leaving behind a playfield where Siemens will shortly join Nokia and Sony Ericsson through annoucing its new, top-secret Series 60 device dubbed the Siemens SX1.
Features in Motorola's new Linux handset appear to be fully on par with other smartphones, however, as it combines PDA functionality with an integrated digital camera, video player, MP3 player and Bluetooth. Also present is GPRS for Internet connectivity, as well as what Motorola calls advanced messaging stating cryptically that the A760 will let users send messages with pictures, animations, ring tones and more attached to compatible mobile phones or PCs.
A clamshell device, the A760 also offers a see-through lid to present information by means of its color touch-screen display even when its lid is closed. According to Motorola, users will be able to customize the phone's interface using wallpapers, as well as its outside through a variety of casings that will be made available.
The Motorola A760 is expected to first launch in the Asia Pacific region in 2003. No information was made available concerning its pricing, nor its availability in other regions.
Additional hi-res pictures of the Motorola A760 are available on the following pages.
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