Rumour: Amazon working with manufacturer Foxconn to produce a smartphone
To rival iPhone and Android
"People with knowledge of the matter" have disclosed to Bloomberg that Amazon is working with Taiwanese electronics manufacturer Foxconn to produce a smartphone that can compete with the iPhone and Android-powered devices.
Much like Amazon's Kindle Fire, the purported smartphone will likely be powered by a heavily modified version of Android.
The notion that Amazon is developing its own phone isn't wholly surprising. The online retail giant already has its own Appstore for Android, of course. It also already flogs music, movies, and books, so there's a ready-made ecosystem in place.
Unfortunately, Bloomberg's sources didn't have a clue about (or didn't share, at least) a release date for the device, but Amazon is apparently working on a wireless patent portfolio that will allow it to release the smartphone without being dragged into court over infringement allegations.
Website The Verge recently heard from Skyhook CEO Ted Morgan that a "major" new Android phone from outside the Google Play ecosystem would be launching this year. Could it be?
