Internet search engine leader Google announced on November 5 that it has cooperated with OHA (Open Handset Alliance) to develop a Linux-based open platform for mobile phones, codenamed Android.

The Android platform is expected to incorporate a Linux-based mobile software stack, fully integrated with an OS (Operating System), middleware, accessible interface, and various Google applications. The first Android OS-based mobile phone is due to be available in the second half of 2008, Nikkei Electronics Asia reported.

The OHA currently comprises 34 firms, including Aplix, Ascender, Audience, Broadcom, China Mobile, eBay, Esmertec, HTC, Intel, KDDI, LivingImage, LG, Marvell, Motorola, NMS Communications, Noser, NTT DoCoMo, Nuance, Nvidia, PacketVideo, Qualcomm, Samsung, SiRF, SkyPop, SONiVOX, Sprint Nextel, Synaptics, The Astonishing Tribe, Telecom Italia, Telefonica, Texas Instruments, T-Mobile, and Wind River.

There are several other firms which own their proprietary OS platforms and do not participate in the alliance, including Apple, Microsoft, AT&T, Nokia, Palm, Research in Motion, Symbian, and Verizon.