Google’s phone is supposed to be running a version of Linux, uses a touch screen, has Google Talk built-in for instant messaging and VoIP calls, and would have to come with a powerful web browser and mobile versions of Google Apps and other Google software, such as Google Maps, Gmail, Google Calendar and more. 

Built-in Wi-Fi would seem to be a given, although whether or not the phone will be 2.5G (GPRS), 2.75G (EDGE), 3G (UMTS) or 3.5G (HSDPA) is unclear. Bluetooth would be another obvious addition, as would some kind of camera, or even two cameras if video calling will be available. Mp3 and video playback capabilities would also seem to be natural features for Google to include.

The Observer kicked off a lot of Google Phone speculation back in December 2006 with a report that one could well be in the works, while Eric Schmidt told Reuters in November 2006 that in the future, cell phones could well be free as they would be supported by advertising – although whether this means having to listen to an ad before, during or after placing calls, or all three, is unknown. Confusingly, he then told Reuters that phones may never be free after all, and that Google had no plans to give away phones themselves.

In October 2006, research company IDG reported that nearly one sixth of the world’s population, or nearly 1 billion people, use mobile phones, with users always keen to upgrade to the latest models offering music and video playback, along with seamless access to email.

One thing is for sure: if Google wants to release their own phone, they have the power to do so, the ability to create the right software environment and the technological know-how required to make the Google Phone a reality.

Gee – the choice may well be tough in the future. G-Phone? iPhone? Nokia ‘multimedia computer’ phone? Walkman phone? Windows Mobile 6 phone? Some other phone?

Whatever happens, and whichever way you decide to go, all of the latest phones are more desirable and feature packed than ever, and they’ll all be trying to call your number!
{moscomment}