T-Mobile USA is reported to be planning a launch of its first Google Android phone in barely over a week. The Reuters news agency quoted sources ("people familiar with the matter") that said the mobile operator will probably make an announcement around September 23rd in New York City. Sounds to me like somebody's doing a great job of leaking information.
There had been widespread reports – translate: rumors - that the phone would be delayed. However T-Mobile, a unit of Deutsche Telekom, says it's still on target for a launch in (or by) October.
The rumor mill says the touchscreen-based Android smartphone (That's a YouTube link.) will be supplied by Taiwan's High Tech Computer. HTC did lots of manufacturing under contract to Palm in the good old days, not long in the past. Besides, Android is expected to have some improvements announced in the next few weeks - including a new software development kit (SDK) to answer complaints. Palm has not signed onto the Google Android platform, which is open-source.
Meanwhile SunCom, my cell carrier of choice - the one I hate the least, in other words - has been eaten by none other than T-Mobile. My latest bill came with a courteous note that the SunCom signs are coming down, and T-Mobile is invading the Carolinas. So, maybe I'll be able to report on the Android issue more closely. After I pay my bill.
