November 10th, 2009
Samsung launches 'Bada' open mobile platform; is it too late to the game?
Electronics behemoth Samsung on Tuesday announced the launch of its own open mobile platform, named “Bada,” set for December.
The mobile platform will allow developers to create applications for millions of Samsung mobile phones. The question is whether developers really desire yet another mobile platform to manage.
The name “bada” means “ocean” in Korean, and is supposed to infer “limitless potential.” Whatever the case, it marks a moment where Samsung moves from proprietary platforms to an open version.
But is it too late to the mobile game, with Apple, Android, Palm and others already seeking active development?
Samsung says Bada is “one of the most developer-friendly environments available,” especially for applications that use Web services. Samsung also touted the platform’s user interface capabilities.
“By opening Samsung’s mobile platforms we will be able to provide rich mobile experiences on an increasing number of accessible smartphones,” said Hosoo Lee, executive vice president and head of Samsung’s Media Solution Center, in a statement. “Bada will be Samsung’s landmark, iconic new platform that brings an unprecedented opportunity for operators, developers and Samsung mobile phone users around the world.”
“Around the world” is an important phrase here. Samsung has an enormous presence, especially outside the North American market — so there is much potential to make a difference, so long as it doesn’t follow the ho-hum path Nokia has taken recently.
The official website for Bada is now live, and offers some basic information for developers and businesses. Samsung will host an official launch event for Bada in London in December, where it will launch the Bada SDK (software development kit) to developers.
Andrew J. Nusca is an associate editor for ZDNet and SmartPlanet.
See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
