Neo FreeRunner – Open Source GSM Phone is Now Available

One of the guys at work passed this information along to me, and I felt I should share it with all of you. The Neo FreeRunner, also known as OpenMoko FreeRunner, is an open source GSM cell phone that runs a Linux based OS. The device sells for around $399 MSRP, but your local distributor might sell for a different amount based on import taxes and what have you. You can check out the full unboxing action over at Holden Karau’s blog.

The device features a 2.8″ VGA touch screen, a ARM9 processor running at 400 MHz, Graphics Acceleration, 128MD SDRAM, 256MD NAND Flash, MicroSD Slot, an external GPS connector, AGPS, GPRS (2.5G), Bluetooth 2.0, a 3axis Motion Sensors. All of that is packed into 6.5 ounces (185 grams) measuring 4.75 x 2.44 x 0.73 inches.

So what good is this device? Well, it’s an unlocked device that you can use with any GSM SIM. It’s also Open Source and you get buy a debug board allowing you to tweak and modify the ROM as you see fit. I’m not sure exactly how much access is given in terms of modification, like do they let you modify the radio code? That could be pretty destructive if you don’t know what your are doing.

I’m on the fence about getting one of these. It’s not something that the general public can use, you need to be a little technical by the looks of things. However, I’m interested in tinkering around with a device like this. And then you have to wonder if Google’s much hyped and delayed Android, would run on it. Hrm… Decisions, decisions…

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