Qualcomm announced that its chipset will enable the first Android-powered mobile phone: the T-Mobile (News - Alert) G1, manufactured by HTC. Qualcomm has played an important role in bringing the first Android handset to market by combining its chipset hardware and software capabilities with the platform.

 

Qualcomm has optimized Android software by integrating it with Qualcomm's MSM7201A-a single chip, dual-core solution as part of its work with the Open Handset Alliance (News - Alert) (OHA). This solution combines high-speed processing, hardware-accelerated multimedia capabilities, 3D graphics and built-in, multi-mode 3G mobile broadband connectivity for an optimal wireless experience.

 

Allowing people to make the phone an extension of their personalities and lifestyles, the T-Mobile G1 provides an enriching user experience and supports various applications. While high-quality video playback and streaming functions support services such as YouTube and GPS, location-based services improve Google's (News - Alert) StreetView and Google Maps for mobile.

 

As Qualcomm works to expand the wireless ecosystem to meet the growing demands of an increasingly mobile population, it is also working with other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to develop handsets. For this first Android-based device, Qualcomm worked with HTC (News - Alert) on the design and development. HTC and Qualcomm have worked together in the past on other products. HTC feels that the new T-Mobile G1 is another example of this close relationship and its commitment to cutting-edge innovation. The company claims that Qualcomm continues to provide them with the latest technology and the support it needs to continue its leadership position in designing new handsets.

 

“The launch of the T-Mobile G1 is a breakthrough moment for Linux-based open mobile application platforms,” said Paul Jacobs, CEO at Qualcomm, in a statement. “Qualcomm's ability to tightly integrate our chipset hardware and software has helped to make the Android platform a reality. Our close relationship with T-Mobile, HTC and many other OHA members was instrumental in achieving this milestone and will allow us to bring products to market faster and spur continued innovation in mobile applications and services.”