Linux Goes Mobile With New LiMo Handsets

On Monday, the LiMo Foundation, an open source mobility consortium driving to break down the boundaries of mobile computing using a Linux-based operating system, added seven new devices to its roster, bringing the total number of LiMo-based devices to 21. Along with more devices, LiMo also added 11 new partners to its consortium -- Cellon, Esmertec, Freescale Semiconductor, Longcheer Holdings, MIZI Research, Movial, PacketVideo, SK Innoace, Telecom Italia, VirtualLogix and ZTE -- bringing the total number of mobility and technology partners pushing for a mobile Linux world to 52.

Here are the recent Linux handset additions to the world of LiMo as the foundation looks to rival Google Android and its Open Handset Alliance and Nokia's Symbian Foundation for open source mobile dominance.

The Motozine ZN5 uses Kodak Imaging Technology and Kodak Perfect Touch Technology to create brighter, more vivid pictures. Users can instantly upload photos to the Web or save them to share later with up to 4 GB of optional expandable memory.

The Motozine ZN5 also features ModeShift technology, allowing users to slide across the lens cover to turn the 5-megapixel camera back into a mobile phone.

NEC FOMA N906i is another handset that wraps in impressive camera quality with a 5.2 megapixel camera with anti-shake technology to ensure high-quality photos that can be easily shared on blogs. The smile shutter automatically recognizes and shoots smiles. The device also features mobile TV capabilities through "One-Segment" and enables high quality images to be displayed on a wide 3-inch VGA LCD screen.

The thinnest 9 series phone -- measuring 12.9 mm -- the NEC FOMA N906iand#188; is equipped for "One Segment" mobile TV. It comes with a high-quality 3.2 megapixel camera with anti-shake technology and displays high-quality images on a wide 3-inch VGA LCD screen.

The NEC FOMA N906iL features mobile broadband handset compatibility with Home U service, which connects to high-speed wireless LANs in homes for packet communications at up to 54 Mbps.

Out to prove that this device is all heart, the NEC FOMA N706i boasts a slim, sophisticated design that was co-developed with home furnishing brand Francfranc. Like the other NEC devices recently added by the LiMo Foundation, the N706i features "One-Segment" mobile TV. It is also compatible with advanced services like HSDPA and 3G/GSM international roaming.

Panasonic Mobile Communications is also part of the LiMo party, offering up two new Linux-based mobile devices.

First up is the FOMA P906i, which features upgraded VIERO Keitai to shoot superb video and stills with a 5.1 megapixel camera equipped with face detection, auto-focus and auto exposure.

LiMo also added the FOMA P706iand#188; from Panasonic Mobile Communications to its lineup. The P706iand#188; is the thinnest mobile phone that supports "One Segment" mobile TV, measuring just 9.8 mm. The device's interface and sound were developed in collaboration with noted creative house TGB design.