Fans of the OpenMoko Neo1973 open-source Linux handset will be glad to hear that they’ll soon be able to get their hands on the Neo1973’s successor in the near future. The OpenMoko FreeRunner sports a faster processor than its predecessor and adds three-axis motion sensors to the mix. As we saw previously, the overall aesthetic of the FreeRunner is largely unchanged from the Neo1973, and the glorious VGA touchscreen, Bluetooth 2.0, WiFi, and microSD card slot also make the cut.
The FreeRunner should alleviate the open-source Linux handset-drought caused by dried-up OpenMoko Neo1973 supplies. OpenMoko is considering its production options and will hopefully start shipping the $399 FreeRunner by month’s end. There will only be one version of the FreeRunner for sale – a departure from the Neo1973’s availability in basic and advanced trim options.
If you’re in the market for 10 or more FreeRunners, OpenMoko will even hook you up with a per-unit price of $369.