Google Phone or gPhone

Google Phone (or gPhone) is a potential mobile phone or smartphone speculated to be connected with search engine giant Google.

The speculation that Google would be entering the mobile phone market with a gPhone was first raised in December 2006. Since that time, various reports noted that Google wanted Google search and Google applications on mobile and it is working hard every day to deliver that. Further, it’s now believed that Google is showing the prototype to cell phone manufacturers and network operators as it continues to hone the technical specifications. As many as about 30 prototype gPhones are reported to be operating in the wild.

Network World reported that Google’s GPhone is actually an open source software phone operating system, rather than a specific hardware device like the iPhone.

Features and specifications

It is believed that the specifications Google has laid out for devices suggest that manufacturers include cameras for photo and video and built-in Wi-Fi technology to access the Web at hot spots such as airports, coffee shops and hotels. It also is recommending that gPhones be designed to work on carriers’ fastest networks, known as 3G, to ensure that Web pages can be downloaded quickly. Google suggests the phones could include Global Positioning System technology that identifies where people are.

Some sources say it is only a mobile OS, designed to run on hardware from other manufacturers. At Google, a team has developed a Linux-based mobile device OS which they're currently shopping around to handset makers and carriers on the premise of providing a flexible, customizable system—with really great Google integration. One was likened to a slim Nokia Corp. phone with a keyboard that slides out. Another phone format presented by Google looked more like a Treo or a BlackBerry. It’s not clear which manufacturers might build the Google Phone, though people familiar with the project say LG Electronics Co. of South Korea is one company that has held talks with Google. However, other sources such as gizmodo.com and silicon.com have reported HTC might be demonstrating new concepts as well. Google has already lined up a series of hardware component and software partners and signaled to carriers that it’s open to various degrees of cooperation on their part, the people say.

gPhone payment patent

Google has applied for a patent for a mobile payment system to complement its’ plans to launch’ the Google phone, or GPhone. Known as 'GPay', it covers a system that would let the user send a text message to Google giving the details of a payment to a specified recipient. GPay then debits the user’s bank account, crediting the money to the payee.

likely free mobile phone service

It has been suggested that the gPhone offer an ad-supported phone service in which users watch a 10 to 30 second advertisement before making a call. Users would also have an advertisement banner across the top of the screen while browsing the Web. Mostly aimed at teens and young adults, the ads would be aimed accordingly. Consumers may have the option to have them removed by paying a premium for the service.