Panasonic and NEC develops Linux 3G handsets

November 18, 2004

NEC and Panasonic Mobile Communications, a subsidiary of Matsushita Electric Industrial, announced that they have developed a Linux-based software platform for 3G mobile phones. The platform is an achievement of their joint development efforts since their alliance was formed in August 2001. The two companies have been collaborating in developing software platform and application software for 3G mobile phone handsets.

The new software platform will be first used in three new FOMA 3G mobile phones for NTT DoCoMo, NEC-made N901iC (FeliCa compatible) and N900iL as well as Panasonic-made P901i. The N900iL, a dual-network model targeted for corporate users that runs on both FOMA and wireless LAN networks, was already released this month. The release dates of the other two models are not determined. NTT DoCoMo participated in the development of the platform.

Main advantages of the new platform include easy integration of advanced multimedia applications and efficient use of software and human resources. By utilizing a variety of capabilities the Linux OS offers, application developers can enhance sophisticated multimedia features required for 3G mobile handsets. Versatility of the Linux OS also facilitates incorporation of third-party developed advanced software. Adoption of Linux also enables design houses to focus their manpower and financial resources on designing application software.

NEC and Panasonic will continue to employ the Linux-based software platform in 3G mobile phone handsets for the domestic market where demand for more values and capabilities is accelerating. In light of adopting it into the handsets for the global market, the companies will be getting ready to license the Linux platform to handset makers and application software design houses at home and abroad.