First global handset deals for cross-operator widget scheme.
Four major handset makers have signed up for the Joint Innovation Lab (JIL) mobile widgets initiative. They are LG, Research In Motion, Samsung and Sharp.
The four companies will be launching JIL-compatible handsets from early next year, and are the first big handset vendors to commit to the initiative on a global basis.
JIL is a joint venture between four operators - Vodafone, Verizon Wireless, China Mobile and Softbank - which aims to create a single platform for mobile widgets.
Vodafone announced the first JIL-enabled phones for Europe in September - the 360 H1 and 360 M1, both made by Samsung. JIL says the four new handset deals will significantly boost its plans.
"It is proof of the tremendous potential that JIL offers both to developers and customers," says CEO Peters Suh. "All four companies are innovation leaders and this is another strong affirmation of both JIL strategy and its robust technical specifications."
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