OpenMoko Neo1973 World's First Open-Source Mobile Phone on Target for September Launch

The FIC Neo1973's final printed circuit board design is complete, and coming soon this september will be the first open source mobile phone. The phone will be a 2.5G touchscreen phone and will offer WiFi connectivity and GPS capabilities. Just like the iPhone, the Neo1973 is entirely controlled through the touchscreen interface.

The phone is using the OpenMoko platform to offer a completely open source software. The open source software will be restricted from the GSM and GPRS modules for intellectual property protection and to avoid radio frequency problems or interference with cellular operations. OpenMoko expects to announce partnerships later this year. The company is also talking with many mobile carriers in Europe and others who are interested in offering the open source phone to customers. The Neo1973 will be priced at retail price of $350

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