02 September 2008

Google Android challenge – Winners announced

After almost half a year since the Android Developer Challenge closed, Google has finally revealed the developers' names and the mobile applications that have clinched success in the final round of the competition.

Out of the 50 teams of finalists that emerged from the first round - and who were already rewarded with $25,000 each - 10 of the teams will receive a further award of $275,000 and another 10 teams will receive a $100,000 award.

The triumphant mobile applications are all briefly described in the Android Developer Challenge Gallery although unfortunately there will not be a chance to see them in action unitl T-Mobile release the first Android-equipped device, a highly anticipated handset that is expected before the year is out.

A wide range of functionalities are found amongst the selection of winners. From cab4me, an application that shows the closest taxi to the user and displays it on Google Maps, to CompareEverywhere or GoCart - a funtion that allows users to scan a product's barcode with their mobile phone camera to find the best prices, read user reviews, add it to a wish list or even monitor price drops. Additionally, Wertago, one of the mobile applications awarded with the highest prize, will undoubtedly win fans amoung party goers - it helps nightlifers to find the hottest gatherings in town.

While the expectations for Google's Android operating system are very high, many wonder if there is place in the market for another mobile competitor. Despite the back up of the 34 founding members of the Open Handset Alliance (including handset manufacturers like Motorola and LG and mobile operators such as China Mobile, T-Mobile and Telefónica), the Google initiative will face fierce competition from other big players with proprietary operating systems such as Nokia (the leading handset manufacturer), Microsoft's Windows Mobile, and the Apple iPhone - which is enjoying thriving sales in almost every country that it's available.