Second open-source Linux phone Launched

The new FIC Neo1973 is the first mobile phone running the OpenMoko open-source OS. It allows developers to create their own mobile Linux applications. The device was launched on Monday, and will become the second fully accessible Linux phone after the Trolltech Greenphone.

The Neo1973 is a quad-band GSM handset featuring a touch-screen display, Bluetooth 2.0, GPS functionality, microSD expansion slot and a Samsung CPU. Later it will probably add 3D graphics acceleration, a faster processor and 802.11b/g Wi-Fi to its specs list.

The base kit costs $300 and includes the phone itself and its standard accessories, while the advanced kit — a so-called "Hacker's Dream Box" is priced at $450 and comes with additional debug board and cable, tools and a ruggedised case.