Google's Android makes debut at Mobile World Congress

Barcelona (Spain) - Google’s mobile operating system Android is being shown for the first time in an industry trade show in Barcelona.

At the Mobile World Congress, Google unveiled a prototype of its mobile software package for cell phone manufacturers that allows users to have more seamless access to various software, including Google programs.

"What is happening with Android today is that we are seeing a number of technology companies demonstrating how Android will operate on their technology," said Google spokesperson Barry Schnitt in an AFP interview.

Android comes with immediate availability to mobile versions of Google search, Google Maps, and Google Products. Additionally, the operating system software will be free, a big change from the current oligopoly of mobile OS makers that charge handset manufacturers various licensing fees.

Google’s platform will also be built on an open-source basis, allowing independent developers to create their own array of applications and games at a much less restrictive cost.

Google has already struck deals with HTC, LG Electronics, Motorola, and Samsung to include its software in some of their upcoming phones. Additionally, Sprint and T-Mobile have agreed to provide service for the phones in the US. Google says phones with the software built-in will be available by the middle of this year.

ARM, Marvell, Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, NEC and ST Microelectronics each have demonstrations of Google’s Android platform integrated with their products/chipsets.