Raymond, Unwired Planet has this demo simulation of what it would be like to read an email message on an "HDML-enabled smartphone":
uplanet.com > Technology > Try it out
With the conventional cellphone screen it seems like it would be a real hassle to read email this way.
This is from their FAQ:
Q - How do I start developing an HDML application for smartphones?
A - ...You should know that HDML application development for smartphones is a familiar process to anyone comfortable with Web-based HTML application development. HDML applications for smartphones are Web services that receive HTTP requests containing URLs and parameters, just like on the Internet. Responses are also delivered by Web servers over HTTP. The only difference is that, to accommodate the often tiny displays and mouseless user interface of small, hand-held devices, HTML is not an appropriate format for the response. Instead, programmers learn an analogous (but far simpler) markup language called HDML, or Handheld Device Markup Language, that is optimized for the small displays and keypads of handheld devices, as well as for the constraints of wireless networks.
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HDML seems like needless duplication of effort to me. Wouldn't it be better to improve the display and just use HTML? The user interface problem would still have to be dealt with. Their solution seems to be reduction of in-screen navigation to use of the four arrow keys, but there may be other solutions that don't require use of a new "simpler" language. Also, since information in this stripped-down format would only be available for customized applications, some content providers and developers may be supporting the new standard based on the potential to collect subscriber fees.
I don't see Siemens listed in the UP Device Manufacturers' alliance - they were talking about using CyberDisplay for high resolution data and graphics, i.e. viewing the same information content as on a computer monitor. Most of the virtual display companies are probably thinking along those lines too, which is incompatible with the UP approach.
Will |
