© denevt - Fotolia.com

The morphing of the cell phone platform from simple communication form factor to multimedia platform with cell capability began some time ago; it was just so subtle and kludgy that it took Apple's marketing and UI genius in the form of the iPhone to really make the point loud and clear for the industry.

That Google is rumored to be working on a platform, see the September 13th issue of Business Week is not much of a surprise, but a welcome next step in its evolution.

I would bet that Google understands the import of an open API, which will allow third-party software companies to write applications for its platform, witness their very successful Maps.

That Google may make a bold step here to reshape the mobile landscape and Apple has made a half step is interesting, especially since that later is supposed to be a computer company with vision. It’s not about bashing, Apple, the iPhone’s price or even Steve Jobs. I want choice, choice to view Flash video, install my own apps, widgets, etc..which I can do to some extent with my Blackberry.

© ghammer
That this photo illustrates that people have embraced viewing video content while in motion is no surprise to me as an evangelist for Internet TV, what surprises me is why are old time and new-time (Apple) handset makers afraid of the future? History has shown that openness will allow more of us to join the party…this is of course if we are welcomed beyond the velvet ropes?

Open the floodgates Google; the landscape will never be the same…