Citing sources at “Taiwan handset makers,” DigiTimes is reporting that “Google will definitely launch its own branded handset.” However, the Googlephone’s OS, hardware specs, production contractor and operating partners have still not been finalized. Given that we’re already pretty sure that Google has developed their own mobile OS based on Linux, we’ll assume that their use of “finalized” refers to the final feature set and UI polishing — not the possibility of the gPhone running Symbian or WinMo, for example. DigiTimes’ sources also note that Google is contemplating going with a 3G handset instead of EDGE for its initial foray into the cellphone market. However, the choice for Qualcomm’s 3G versus TI’s EDGE could push the introduction of the HTC manufactured handset into the first half of 2008. Come on Google, it’s post-Labor Day now so just go ahead and announce your plans already. We’re big boys, we can take it.

read more | digg story | JAVOedge Smartphone Accessories

Although we can’t really see Sony Ericsson dropping all that R&D into Symbian and UIQ only to jump ship to the Borg, the always-reliable Commercial Times is reporting that HTC just won a million-unit OEM order for Sony Ericsson’s first Windows Mobile handset. Details are still sketchy, but apparently the device will ship in the “second half of 2008.” Take this one with a huge grain of salt for now, but we’ll keep our ears to the ground.

read more | digg story | Javoedge Sony Ericsson Accessories

Whoa, the iPhone just got GPS. Well, assisted GPS, but still, It actually works. This morning, the Navizon GPS app showed up in Installer.app. After creating a username and login (get this: email NOT required), the free app started up, taking about 30 seconds to find my location by measuring the delay between nearby cell towers and using their known locations to pinpoint where I am. Then it pushes your coordinates, by latitude and longitude, to many, many, many decimal places of degrees, to the map application.

read more | digg story | Javoedge iPhone Accessories

Sorry, 8800 owners — your pieces are officially obsolete (not really, unless WiFi is a big deal for you). AT&T has gotten officially official today with the 802.11a/b/g-equipped 8820 at the expected $299 contract price point, offering integrated GPS, push-to-talk support, EDGE data, a microSD slot, and a clean, camera-less posterior just like the original. Grab it online and in store starting tomorrow. Oh, and buyers, let us know what the sitch is with the GPS, okay?

read more | digg story | Javoedge BlackBerry Accessories