Boot To Gecko, Something To Get Excited About?

Martin Brinkmann
Feb 28, 2012
Updated • Dec 1, 2012
Mobile Computing
|
5

When I first heard about Mozilla's new project, Boot To Gecko (B2G), an open source operating system for smartphones, I initially thought that Mozilla should better spend the resources on the Firefox web browser.

Now that I have read more about it and viewed a demonstration on YouTube, I have to admit that my stance has changed. While I cannot say that Boot 2 Gecko will be successful or widely adopted, I do see the potential that it has.

When you look at the smartphone landscape currently, you see a few dominating operating systems, namely Android, iOS and maybe even Symbian (even though Symbian will drop like a stone in the future and Windows Phone may take its place). Phones running those operating systems are heavily subsidized in many countries. Instead of paying hundreds of Dollars for the phone, you pay less in cash because of this. This does not mean that the phone itself is cheap, as you pay a monthly subscription fee and usually have to stay with the mobile company for an extended period of time.

In many third world countries, phones are not subsidized which moves the price up. The majority cannot shell out hundreds of Dollars, or whatever the local currency is, for a phone. That's why so called feature phones are highly popular in those countries. A feature pone by definition is a phone that is not a smartphone. These feature phones often come with limited Java or BREW support which limits what can be done with the phone.

B2G now could become an alternative in those countries, as it offers smartphone capabilities at a cheaper price. According to Carlos Domingo, Telefonica product development and innovation director, a phone with B2G would be "ten times cheaper than an iPhone". The main reasons for it being cheaper are that phone's running it need less processing power than phone's running many other mobile operating systems, and that the operating system itself is free as well.

The interesting aspect is that the technology relies entirely on HTML5, CSS and JavaScript. The mobile OS is actually doing as well as the Firefox web browser in the HTML5 test.

B2G would offer mobile users all the power of HTML5, extended with device capabilities like Bluetooth and SMS, a richer capability model for interaction with the filesystem, and a way to tie these "native HTML5 apps" together. The intent is very much that B2G lead to improved capabilities for the Web platform, not that it replace HTML5 or related tech in any way. Many of these new capabilities will also make sense in desktop browsers, and we look forward to seeing them there as well.

Mozilla showcased a first prototype at the Mobile World Congress that highlighted the capabilities of the phone.

Boot to Gecko Video

What's your take on Boot To Gecko? Are you looking forward to it, or would you say that it won't get the traction needed to become a success?

Advertisement

Tutorials & Tips


Previous Post: «
Next Post: «

Comments

  1. Rush said on August 28, 2023 at 9:50 pm
    Reply

    If Nothing OS is nothing more that an overlay with Google still in the midst….then I ain’t interested.

    1. Seeprime said on September 12, 2023 at 4:12 pm
      Reply

      Another unrelated comment older than the article. Pathetic.

      1. Robenroute said on September 13, 2023 at 9:06 am
        Reply

        it is becoming mindbogglingly annoying indeed…

  2. ThisIsTheWayTheGhacksEnds said on September 13, 2023 at 9:09 am
    Reply

    Under: https://www.ghacks.net/2023/09/12/iphone-15-with-usb-c-port/

    Apple was forced to add USB-C to a phone and the maccultists start talking about “revolution” and “paradigm shift” (as if USB phones had never come out before). It’s so ridiculous it’s reminiscent of comedians doing the “stepped on a water hose” stunt – that was at least somehow funny a hundred years ago.
    Reading this on a site that used to be a technical resource is especially ridiculous.
    How pathetic

  3. Anonymous said on September 14, 2023 at 4:28 pm
    Reply

    “An iPhone 15 with a USB-C port will mean more than you think”

    That Apple can finally stop hindering progress if spanked hard enough ?

  4. Alex Hales said on September 21, 2023 at 12:51 am
    Reply

    I’m thrilled to see Instagram taking steps to enhance the user experience with features like Live Activities. This update is a game-changer, especially for those who frequently upload content on the platform.

    The ability to track upload progress in the background is a simple yet incredibly useful addition. It not only keeps users informed about the status of their uploads but also allows for a more seamless experience on the platform. No more constantly checking if your post has successfully uploaded or worrying about interrupted uploads due to a weak signal.

    As an active Instagram user, this feature is a relief. It showcases Instagram’s commitment to improving user satisfaction and addressing common pain points. It’s all about making the platform more user-friendly, and this feature certainly accomplishes that.

    I can’t wait to try out Live Activities and enjoy a stress-free posting experience. Kudos to Instagram for continually innovating and making our social media lives easier!

    Keep up the great work, Instagram, and thanks to ghacks for keeping us in the loop with the latest tech updates!

    I am additionally add one more think if you want to watch instagram stories anonymously to visit site storysnooper.com.

  5. Alex Hales said on September 25, 2023 at 6:02 pm
    Reply

    I found this post really insightful! It’s always intriguing to learn about the various ways we can navigate and understand social media platforms. The idea of checking someone’s Threads following list might seem like a niche topic, but in today’s digital age, it can be quite relevant.

    As someone who uses social media regularly, I appreciate the tips and guidance provided here. It’s not just about curiosity; it’s also about understanding our online connections better. This information can help us engage more effectively and stay updated with the content that interests us the most.

    The step-by-step instructions provided in the article are clear and easy to follow. It’s great that the author has taken the time to break down the process, making it accessible to both tech-savvy individuals and those who might not be as familiar with these platforms.

    I also appreciate the emphasis on privacy and ethics. It’s essential to remember that online interactions should always respect the boundaries and consent of others. The article’s focus on respecting others’ privacy is a reminder of the importance of responsible online behavior.

    Overall, this post is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand more about the Threads following list on social media platforms. I’ll definitely be sharing this with my friends and followers who might find it useful. Keep up the great work, ghacks!

Leave a Reply

Check the box to consent to your data being stored in line with the guidelines set out in our privacy policy

We love comments and welcome thoughtful and civilized discussion. Rudeness and personal attacks will not be tolerated. Please stay on-topic.
Please note that your comment may not appear immediately after you post it.