From CNET: Mozilla has revamped its Firefox OS mobile software project after concluding that ultra-affordable $25 handsets aren't enough to take on the biggest powers of the smartphone world, CNET has learned.
The nonprofit organization rose to prominence with the success of its Firefox Web browser a decade ago, but it's having trouble achieving the same success with its Firefox operating system for smartphones. According to a Thursday email from new Chief Executive Chris Beard, Mozilla has changed its strategy to a new "Ignite" initiative that emphasizes phones with compelling features, not just with lower price tags. It's also considering letting its operating system run apps written for its top rival, Google's Android.
"We will build phones and connected devices that people want to buy because of the experience, not simply the price," Beard said in the email to members of the broader community of people involved in Mozilla's projects. "We have not seen sufficient traction for a $25 phone, and we will not pursue all parts of the program." (For the full text of the email, see below.)
The shift in Mozilla's strategy shows just how hard it is for the nonprofit to adapt to the modern era in which smartphones are central to our electronic lives and and the computing industry's attention. At the same time, for Mozilla, its principles of openness are at least as important as sales and market share. While a retooled version of Firefox OS may not power your next smartphone, the organization hopes its operating system may influence the device's capabilities. But if Mozilla wants to spread its gospel to the mobile world, it must adapt.
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