According to venture capitalist Simeon Simeonov, the Google Phone dubbed “Switch” is definitely in production. He claims that it will be a Blackberry-like device with a C++ core with OS bootstrap — perhaps Linux? On top of the C++ will be an optimized version of Java, as well as vector-based 2D presentation. In addition it will have many services, while an assortment of Google services is a no-brainer, Simeonov claims that Google Switch will have VoIP.
Another interesting point he mentions is the go-to-market strategy that Google wants to adopt. Under this model, Google will develop distribution relationships with multiple carriers by allowing them to minimize marketing and subscription costs. Put simply, Google will market the phone and carriers will provide the service.
I really hope this isn’t some publicity charade, that would be far too cruel. This is probably the one device that could dissuade me from hoping on the iPhone bandwagon, especially if it’s available on T-Mobile and I won’t have to “switch” carriers.
