Motorola Announces the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge

It is turn of Motorola to court mobile software developers to create widgets for its new mobile platform. The new challenge is open to all Web and Mobile Developers worldwide; Opportunity to win up to $200,000 in prizes and gain global exposure
Motorola today announced the launch of the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge, a competition that allows developers around the globe to deliver the web without limits to mobile users.

This MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is designed to encourage all developers to get actively engaged in the future of mobile through the smallest and most personal unit of power to access the mobile web.  Through widgets, mobile and web developers alike can create flexible and easy-to-develop web applications that bring targeted, real-time data to mobile users.  Whether delivering sports scores, stock tickers, or flight information, widgets represent a more efficient way for mobile users to access the mobile web and an outlet for developers to be creative with a lightweight footprint.

Also announced today is the MOTO VE66, (the only document I found about the VE6, a Linux based OS) the first Motorola mobile device equipped with a widgets framework, built to support pre-loaded and downloadable(1) widgets.  This capability will allow consumers to access relevant information from the Internet quickly and easily in real time, eliminating the need to actively browse websites to find regularly accessed information.

"Aligned with the principles of our MOTODEV developer network, the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is all about expanding the virtually endless possibilities for tapping into the mobile lifestyle," said Claudia Backus, Senior Director, Ecosystem, Motorola.  "We’re excited that we can engage a whole new community of developers through widgets, which represent the next big leap in mobile from a software and user experience perspective."

Open to all registered MOTODEV developers (non-MOTODEV developers can register quickly and at no charge at developer.motorola.com), the MOTODEV Widget Developer Challenge is accepting submissions beginning today and continuing until February 27, 2009.  Challenge entries will be accepted in three main categories, including Best Widget in Category, Best Local Content, and Best Use of APIs, and judged in their relevant subcategory.  All widgets submitted will be considered for the grand prize and title of Best Overall Widget.  A panel of expert judges representing Motorola and the mobile industry will evaluate entries based on uniqueness, effective use of the platform, harmony of design, indispensability, and applicability.  Category winners will be announced in the spring of 2009, and promotion winners will also be announced monthly.
Each category grand prize winner and first and second runner-up will enjoy a cash prize, global recognition of their application through Motorola, and recognition at CTIA Wireless 2009.  In addition, all winners will receive a briefcase full of Motorola’s hottest handsets and accessories, and a plaque commemorating their achievement.
Interested participants should sign up to become a MOTODEV member and download MOTODEV Studio for WebUI.  To become a member and experience the MOTODEV network, please visit developer.motorola.com.

To learn more about submitting a widget for consideration including official competition rules, please visit: developer.motorola.com/motodevchallenge.

More on Moto VE66…The Mobile Linux Powered Phone WM6 Successor of Motorola Q (CDMA) is in the Work.. Widget Platform for Nokia S60 Available

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