Android set to proliferate in consumer devices

The open-source Android platform created by Google is picking up momentum in areas beyond the cell phone. In Asia, Android set-top boxes, TVs, VoIP phones, digital picture frames and even Karaoke boxes are all going to hit retail shelves shortly.

A large number of Android-toting devices are expected to be on display at CEATEC, Japan's largest electronics show, including a prototype Android set-top box developed by Motorola for service provider KDDI.

The Open Embedded Software Foundation (OESF) is rallying support for Android on non-phone devices. The OESF is a group of 25 companies who plan to have working groups on set-top boxes, VoIP, network and security, measurement and control, system core, application and services, marketing and education. Current members include ARM, KDDI, Japan Cable Laboratories, Alpine Electronics and Fujitsu Software Technologies, with other silicon companies contemplating participation.

The popularity of Android beyond its mobile phone roots is linked to its use of Linux and open-source, and its free availability. And, needless to say, adding in VoIP to a set top box, TV or even a Karaoke box should be easy and cheap.

For more:
- EE Times covers Android proliferation to other devices. Article.

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