Firmware and software over-the-air updates on mobile phones make sense. Nokia already prepared over-the-air updates of its firmware for UK users (selected phones) and Opera is working on the same goal with Red Bend Software to keep its mobile browser fresh.
Now, the Open Mobile Alliance (OMA), where all Symbian OS handset manufacturers are present, has published a new standard that allows mobile phones to be updated over-the-air without making manual changes to the entire operating system. Firmware Update Management Object (FUMO) creates a standard for telecom operators who have been reluctant about supporting proprietary technology and being locked into a specific supplier.
Security is always an issue for operators. On the other hand having access to their users’ menu and interfaces looks like an opportunity for telecoms to push latest promotions, and they will most certainly use it in the future.
Testing begins this month and we can expect to see handsets conforming to the standard some time next year.