One of the most anticipated mobile platforms, Google’s Android software, has been a hot topic of discussion amongst mobile geeks for some time now. Though Google had said the platform would be available around now, both Google and handset developers are having trouble reaching that goal, and as a result Android won’t be in your pockets until Q4 2008.

There are a few variables to Android’s delay equation, reports The Channel Wire. First and foremost, Google isn’t quite done putting the finishing touches on the software, which is an obvious necessity.

Second, software developers are claiming that Android isn’t the easiest platform to work with. If anything, software developers could play the biggest part in the success of the platform, when all is said and done.

Third, cell phone carriers and handset developers are still hammering out which handsets will use the platform, and from there, which carriers will actually move to distribute the handsets when they become available. Though it would seem like most providers might want to get on board the Google handset bus (to compete with the iPhone in any way possible), some providers are considering leaving Google’s Android by the wayside in favor of adopting the LiMo (Linux Mobile) Foundation’s platform.

Verizon Wireless is already one that has taken a seat at LiMo’s table. Though that might not seem like a big deal, as many service providers have multiple platforms on their respective cards, LiMo will be a direct competitor to Android, and will certainly be near and dear to developers’ hearts.

However, Verizon not buying tickets to the Android show could spell success for other carriers, especially T-Mobile. The customer service-oriented carrier has already committed to delivering an Android handset by Q4. T-Mobile needs to see success with the Android platform on a new, shiny handset, as it doesn’t really have much else besides over-priced and outdated Blackberrys in its repertoire at this time.

Regardless of the basis for delays, Google truly needs to get Android out the door if it wants to be successful in the wake of the new 3G iPhone which is set for release in July. The longer handset and software developers as well as carriers wait to release their best offerings to the public, the more time the low-cost iPhone will have to woo customers to AT&T, regardless of the carrier misgivings many users have.

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Entry was posted on Monday, June 23rd, 2008 at 2:16 pm under Cell phones, Google, Opinion.

Read more entries by Triston McIntyre.
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