OpenMoko FreeRunner launch imminent, $399 a pop

OpenMoko's first model, the Neo1973, has been sold out for some time now -- a testament to the popularity of the open-source phone concept, yes, but also a huge pain in the rear for new folks looking to get in on the action. That drought is thankfully about to end, though, with the introduction of the FreeRunner, a refreshed model that carries over the best parts of the Neo (think VGA touchscreen) while adding a few key features like three-axis motion detection and a faster processor. The group has just announced pricing on the latest model, and it comes in at a very consumer-friendly $399 -- unlocked, naturally -- which should allow a whole new group of hackers and Joe Regulars to join in the Linux free-for-all. Anyone needing ten or more will get an even better deal: $369, to be exact. It looks like the company's studying production samples right now, and if all goes well, we'll still see them in the pipe before the month's out.

[Via PHONE Magazine]

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 13th 2008 10:29PM]

now THAT is seriously open and definitely not vaporware.

screw android.

[SeanR Posted Apr 14th 2008 3:46AM]

How is Android vaporware? You make it sound like they claimed that the OS was going to be out by a certain date and didn't deliver.
Duke Nukem Forever - Vaporware
Phantom Console - Vaporware
Android - They claimed Summer/Fall 08, It's still spring

[Rollins Posted Apr 14th 2008 12:19AM]

Phones like that make me want to get rid of Verizon so I can get in on the fun. If only all of my friends and relatives weren't on Verizon.

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 14th 2008 10:41AM]

T-mobile you can call any 5 numbers for free. I have my family's Verizon numbers on there and I talk to them all I want and never have any overages. :)

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 14th 2008 9:46AM]

SIM compatiblity list time. Skype? Gizmo? I bet the iPhone 2 release just got pushed up.

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 14th 2008 1:54PM]

Oh, please. Like this goofy Linux shit is even on Apple's radar.

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 14th 2008 5:27PM]

"Goofy linux s**t" :)

[(Unverified) Posted Apr 14th 2008 1:39PM]

Still no 3G or even an EDGE modem, GPRS data rates only. :(