Opinion: The INQ1 -- 3rd attempt at a Skype-friendly handset?

Michael Aubert knows a thing or two about Symbian, given that he — literally — wrote the book on Mastering C++ in Mobile Development.

Michael took issue with the manner in which we’ve covered the INQ1 launch. So much so he knocked me over a text about it this morning. I responded asking him to expand on his viewpoint so we could publish his opinion here. Over to Michael!

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Hi Ewan,

I sent you an SMS about the INQ1 coverage on MIR earlier today.

To expand on it:

It seems the whole MIR redaction has fallen in love with the new INQ1 phone. A more balanced view of the device could be useful to the MIR readers.

The INQ1 is the third attempt from manufacturer Amoi to create a Skype-friendly handset.

It is also the first one that is remotely usable by third-party application developers.

It still has teething problems like the complexity of customizing a shortcut icon.

It is still based on a cheap Qualcomm chipset with limited audio capabilities.

It is still using a security model that is actually laughable.

However, Amoi is a good manufacturer when it comes to responding to developer feedback and producing improved firmwares. Hopefully, all the alpha and beta testing developers have gone through with this phone over the last few months will make for a good user experience now that the INQ1 is available in the shops.

The INQ software layer in itself, including the Skype VoIP and Facebook social networking clients, certainly looks exiting.

One last comment about the UK marketing campaign: Over-exposition reeks of desperation.

Regards,

Michael Aubert
http://developer.symbian.com/quick

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Michael, thanks very much for taking the time to write and to rebalance the sometimes rather keen coverage we’ve been delivering here on Mobile Industry Review. You’ve made some fair points there — I’m looking forward to getting the perspective of the wider audience on the INQ1 too.

(And I’m just away to go and buy one!)