Ocasta

After over three years focused on delivering on-device software for mobile phones I have recently returned to the server-side. I have not abandoned the mobile arena just handset software.

The problems with commercial software development for phones are well documented: development environment, distribution, operator control, installation, user awareness etc. I've experienced them all. The same problems impact innovative software. While Nokia has to be applauded for Lifeblog or Sensor their development can have made little commercial sense. As with other Series 60 apps only a small number of people actually use them and I can't see that people buy the phone because of them.

Without a significant change in handset design and operator attitude I don't believe that mobile phones will reach their potential as data communication device for anyone other than the techie community. Eventually I hope that a network operator (maybe an MVNO) will decide that there is value and differentiation in providing a fully networked phone. Then our world will change.