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Motorola Challenges "Geeks" to Develop Widgets

By Narayan Bhat, TMCnet Contributing Editor

US handset maker Motorola has announced MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge, a competition that allows developers around the globe to deliver the web without limits to mobile users.

 

The contest, according to the handset maker, is designed to encourage all developers to further innovate the mobile telephony.

 

 Widgets are miniature applications that run on a homescreen instead of opening a new screen or window. Whether delivering sports scores, stock tickers, or flight information, widgets represent a more efficient way for mobile users to access the mobile web.

 

The phone maker has in the meantime unveiled MOTO VE66, the first device from Motorola (News - Alert) to be equipped with a widgets framework.

 

This capability will allow consumers to access relevant information from the Internet quickly and easily in real time, eliminating the need to actively browse websites to find regularly accessed information, Motorola said in a statement.

"MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is all about expanding the virtually endless possibilities for tapping into the mobile lifestyle," said Claudia Backus, Senior Director, Ecosystem, Motorola.

 

Telecom companies have often organized such contests to encourage third-party support for new handsets and programming technologies. In fact, the concept became popular on Apple (News - Alert) Macintosh computers a few years ago and quickly found its in way into mobile phones.

 

The handset maker will accept entries until Feb. 27, 2009 for Best Widget in a Category, Best Local Content and Best Use of APIs. Winners will be announced in the spring.

 

Prizes include cash, mobile phone hardware and marketing support.

 

Challenge entries will be accepted in three main categories, including Best Widget in Category, Best Local Content, and Best Use of APIs, and judged in their relevant subcategory.

 

A panel of expert judges representing Motorola and the mobile industry will evaluate entries based effective use of the platform.

Narayan Bhat is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Narayan's articles, please visit his columnist page.

Edited by Jessica Kostek