R E L A T E D C O N T E N T

Smartphone designers gain interface flexibility

New interface for Symbian smartphones

Daniel Robinson, IT Week 10 Feb 2005

Software firm UIQ Technology will launch version 3.0 of its namesake user interface for Symbian smartphones at the 3GSM World Congress in Cannes. The new release supports both pen-driven and keypad phones and is much more customisable, enabling device makers to create a wider range of handsets for their customers.

UIQ is a wholly owned subsidiary of Symbian that was spun off in 2002 to continue development of the UIQ user interface, formerly codenamed Quartz. The software features in handsets such as Sony Ericsson's P800, P900 and P910, and is also used by Motorola and BenQ.

UIQ 3.0, shipping to handset makers now, has been designed for use on mid-range handsets as well as high-end smartphones, according to the firm. It introduces an architecture that allows more flexibility in device sizes, according to UIQ chief executive Johan Sandberg.

"People told us they like the [Sony Ericsson] P800, but they would like to see the user interface on smaller devices. The pen interface needed a big screen," said Sandberg. With UIQ 3.0, handset makers can use the software on models with a keypad or pen-driven screen, "but they don't have to re-code their software for each one", Sandberg added.

The first handsets using UIQ 3.0 are expected in the second half of this year, according to the firm. UIQ 3.0 is based on the latest version of Symbian OS, version 9.0, announced earlier this month.

Sandberg said that UIQ is already looking at features for the next major release, including more support for video telephony and instant messaging, plus further ways for handset makers to customise the system.

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