Mozilla has been diligently working on their own mobile operating system, called Firefox OS. This new venture aims to provide an alternative to the dominant mobile operating systems currently available. It has now come to light that Mozilla has been collaborating with a hardware partner on Firefox OS, and we could see one of the first Firefox OS smartphones launching early next year.
The manufacturer in question is ZTE, a well-known player in the smartphone market. According to recent reports, ZTE is looking to diversify its portfolio of smartphones and is aiming to produce devices beyond just Android and Windows Phone handsets. This strategic move could help ZTE stand out in the competitive smartphone market.
Reducing Licensing Costs
According to The Verge, ZTE may be attempting to reduce its licensing costs for its mobile devices by using Mozilla’s Firefox OS. Currently, the company is paying Microsoft between $20 and $30 per Windows Phone handset. Additionally, they may also be paying Microsoft a license fee for patents related to Android on each Android device they release. By adopting Firefox OS, ZTE could potentially lower these costs significantly, making their devices more cost-effective and competitive in the market.
The first Firefox OS-based devices from ZTE are rumored to launch in the first quarter of 2013, which means we could see these new smartphones hit the market sometime between January and March. This launch could mark a significant milestone for both ZTE and Mozilla, as they venture into a new segment of the mobile market.
Potential Impact on the Market
The introduction of Firefox OS smartphones could have several implications for the mobile industry. Firstly, it would provide consumers with more choices, especially those looking for alternatives to Android and iOS. Firefox OS is designed to be open-source and web-centric, which could appeal to developers and tech enthusiasts who prefer a more customizable and flexible operating system.
Moreover, the collaboration between Mozilla and ZTE could pave the way for other manufacturers to consider Firefox OS as a viable option. If successful, this could lead to a broader adoption of the operating system, potentially disrupting the current duopoly of Android and iOS in the smartphone market.
Another aspect to consider is the potential for Firefox OS to thrive in emerging markets. With its focus on being lightweight and efficient, Firefox OS could be well-suited for lower-cost devices, making it an attractive option for consumers in regions where high-end smartphones are less accessible. This could help bridge the digital divide and bring more people online.
As soon as we get more information on what ZTE has planned, we will let you guys know. The collaboration between Mozilla and ZTE is certainly one to watch, as it could bring about significant changes in the mobile landscape.
Source The Verge
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
