Before we start this article: I am not an enemy of UIQ by any means. However, I come from the Palm OS side - and have seen platforms die before. For me, it looks like UIQ is going down - Palm OS Cobalt also looked beautiful on the draftboard!
UIQ Technology has recently released a new version of UIQ 3.3 - the basic tenor seems to be about hitting the mass market. It is said to be better compatible with Carrier’s certification process; and also brings along a consistent 5way navigation.
The company also hopes that this release will unite the “forks” between the versions UIQ 3.0(used by Sony Ericsson) and 3.1/3.2(used by Motorola) - UIQ 3.3 is said to be software-compatible with existing applications.
So far, so good. But who is left in the UIQ boat:
Motorola
Motorola currently offers two touchscreenless devices running UIQ - namely the now-dead Z8 and the Z10. A touchscreen device was rumored a few months ago, but was not heard from since. Things generally look dull inside of the big M; especially seeing that the company plans to split off its cellphone division.
Sony Ericsson
Sony Ericsson - once manufactured lovely cutting-edge UIQ phones. However, the current high-end models are starting to get old, and the Windows Mobile powered XPERIA is more-less round the corner.
The current UIQ lineup consists of consumer-centric devices that IMHO will not generate much third party software sales - developers should not expect much here.
Where do you think that UIQ is heading? Please let us know!
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