NEWS
November 02, 2007
Expert: Google OS for mobile "dumb idea"

Google is planning a big mobile move and rumors are flying fast and furious about the internet giant cutting deals with handset manufacturers to integrate its services directly into a slew of wireless devices. But one rumor, that Google is planning to launch its own mobile operating system, just doesn't seem plausible to many analysts, one of whom called such an undertaking "the dumbest thing [Google] could do."

In an interview with The Washington Post, Ken Dulany, an analyst at technology research firm Gartner, said Google probably wouldn't get into the mobile operating system business. According to Dulany, Google lacks the experience required to deliver an effective mobile operating system.

Dulany also pointed out that such a system wouldn't be a panacea for those looking to deliver mobile applications to users because it would join a host of other operating systems that lack interoperability.

Chris Hazelton, an IDC analyst, said Google's strategy will likely involve the development of an applications suite that is handset agnostic. Such a suite would allow users to download Google's popular tools to an array of phones. But to do that, Google needs to play nice with mobile carriers, who see the company as a threat after its decision to bid on wireless spectrum.

Whether a potential truce between Google and the carriers is in the air remains unclear. But one more rumor that has the mobile industry buzzing are secret talks between Verizon and Google.