Linux-based Scpl phones to replace Motorola Razr line

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Jul. 27, 2006

[Updated Jan. 12, 2007] -- Motorola will "abandon" its proprietary P2K mobile phone OS -- currently used in the Razr and other featurephones -- in favor of a Linux/Java environment, reports PC Magazine. Additionally, the world's number-two handset vendor is readying a Scpl ("scalpel") product line.

Motorola confirmed that it is moving ahead with its Linux/Java environment, but denied plans to abandon P2K. Jennifer Lyons, marcom specialist for mobile devices, explained, "We are not abandoning P2K -- as you know, we have several popular handset models such as the MOTOKRZR K1 that utilize this platform today. Rather, we are executing on our software strategy and evolving our portfolio platform mix with Linux being at the core."

Lyons added, "We will also utilize other platforms based on the specific user experience we are enabling -- for example, we've found that the Microsoft OS is well suited for productivity handsets in North America (i.e. in the Motorola Q)."

Meanwhile, Motorola plans to deliver a new Scpl line that will follow its Rizr models, which in turn follow its popular Razr models. The first Scpl model will be called the "Motofone," and will target developing nations. It is expected to ship in October, and to bring a barely believable set of performance characteristics to the low-cost, high-volume mobile phone market. It will not be based on Linux, however.

According to Motorola's mobile devices head Ron Garriques, as quoted by PC Magazine, the Motofone (pictured at right) will be thinner than the Razr, have dual antennas for market-leading reception and clarity, will offer strong volume for noisy environments, and most amazingly, will last "several weeks" between charges, with standby times of up to 400 hours. Motorola has already received half a million Motofone orders, PC Magazine says.

Motorola subsequently plans to roll out "Scpl Broadband" models in mid-2007, according to PC Magazine. These phones will reportedly replace Motorola's "triplet" phones, such as the Vxxx and Exxx models characterized by triple-digit model designations.

The Scpl Broadband phones are expected to initially support high-speed EV-DO Rev A and HDSPA networks. PC Magazine conjectures that these phones will be sold through Verizon, which plans an EV-DO Rev A build-out in 2007. For its part, Motorola promised to reveal additional details at the CES (consumer electronics show) tradeshow in Las Vegas next January.

Rokr E2
(Click for review)

Read the full PC Magazine story for more details about Motorola's new Scpl roadmap:

Motorola Outlines Plans for RAZR Successor, the SCPL

More details about Motorola's next-generation Linux/Java OS can be found in our hands-on preview of the Rokr E2 (pictured at right).

Note: This story was updated on Jan. 12, to correct our inaccurate assumption that the Motofone was to be based on Linux. -ed.

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