First look at the OpenMoko "Anti-iPhone"

If you are sick of the iPhone news, and looking for a platform looking to take it on then look no further. Wired has up an early hands-on look at the OpenMoko. It is a Linux-based smartphone built from the ground up to be OPEN. (i.e. While the iPhone allows you to install NOTHING that Apple doesn't like, OpenMoko ENCOURAGES you to install ANYTHING.) It runs Linux and has a snazzy interface. Right now, it is only out in developer quantities, but look for it around Christmas time in much larger supply. And this device allegedly will cost only $300 with no contract, and be useable on any GSM/GPRS network.

I think it is a great entrant into the field. If Apple had not released the iPhone, it probably would have been the device to replace my Sidekick III. And frankly, if competition makes for greatness, seeing the iPhone and OpenMoko competing for the "best smartphone" moniker could lead to some really exciting applications for all of us.