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2. Android -- In early November, Google dropped a bomb on the mobile world. It announced that rather than simply offering free mobile applications to people, it was going to create its own Linux-based mobile platform with better integrated applications and services. Creating mobile operating systems is no easy task. Google and its Open Handset Alliance partners are hoping to forge a brand new paradigm in the mobile arena. By offering a cheap(er) mobile platform that is easy to develop for, the industry can bring new technologies to market sooner. Software developers, handset manufacturers, and network operators have all indicated that they are willing to play ball with Google on this one. Google will be entering a fiercely competitive market. Other mobile platforms, which also have wide developer bases, have huge head starts with hundreds of millions of customers. Google is aiming high, but if it hits the mark, it could have a major impact on the future of mobility.