Openwave Systems announced Openwave Amplicity, a new browser-based, value-added services (VAS) solution designed to enable developers to leverage mobile operator network assets to more rapidly create and deliver cross-platform applications within the browser.
We’re talking about an operator-centric solution that on the other hand should also appeal to developers which may want to make apps for the operator’s users. Moreover, thanks to the browser-based environment, one doesn’t have to be a rocket scientist to make apps — all that’s required is knowledge of web-based technologies like HTML, JavaScript and CSS. Finally, thanks to the built-in advertising module that allows for in-app ads, both parties [developers and operators] could benefit from additional revenue.
For the record, Sprint was the first operator to announce a browser-VAS solution powered by Openwave in October 2010. If China Mobile jumps on board — i.e. Openwave succeeds in selling them the Amplicity — we may be talking about an awesome platform to develop for. In the meantime, with “not that many” carriers involved, I’m not convinced developers should spend their resources here…