Entertaining Cell

Sony is choosing its partners for a new generation of entertainment cell phones. The new phones will be based on Texas Instruments Open Multimedia Application Platform and Symbian's EPOC operating system. The Symbian development platform, which incorporates key technologies like Java, Bluetooth and WAP, is the product of a joint venture by industry leaders Nokia, Ericsson, Motorola, Panasonic, Philips and Psion to create a standard operating system for next-generation cell phones. Sony, the first non-shareholder to license the technology, could be the driving force Symbian is looking for to drive the adoption of its system in the face of a heated battle with Microsoft for control of the mobile market. "Sony will extend the choice and diversity of wireless devices that are available for mobile users, and also encourage the development of content and services in the wireless industry," said Symbian CEO Colly Myers. Sony plans phones with video, music, and Internet capabilities early next year.