Singapore – Technology and wireless companies are joining forces to develop Android, an open and comprehensive platform for mobile devices. Google Inc., T-Mobile, HTC, Qualcomm, Motorola and others have collaborated on the development of Android through the Open Handset Alliance, a multinational alliance of technology and mobile industry leaders. With nearly 3 billion users worldwide, the mobile phone has become the most personal and ubiquitous communications device. But the lack of a collaborative effort has made it a challenge for developers, wireless operators and handset manufacturers to respond as quickly as possible to the ever-changing needs of savvy mobile consumers. Thirty-four companies have formed the Open Handset Alliance, which aims to develop technologies that will significantly lower the cost of developing and distributing mobile devices and services. The Android platform is a fully integrated mobile “software stack” that consists of an operating system, middleware, user-friendly interface and applications. Consumers can expect the first phones based on Android to be available in the second half of 2008.