NeoMedia Technologies, Inc (NEOM)

[JPetroInc]

Google is releasing their Android 'Open Source' barcode reader SDK on Monday.

They are seeking to incorporate an existing barcode reader into their new cell phone.

It works on Java J2ME open source.

I spoke with the lead Software Engineer Sean Owen.

Sean Owen is formerly from Danger - 2.0, Andy Rubin's crew.

He mentioned Kaywa specifically as a good fit for the newly proposed reader, however they are open to interview all bar code reader companies and are presently seeking to interview as many as possible.

Android will read QR, Data Matrix and some UPC codes. However, I am uncertain about its ability to read non-proprietary codes as opposed to proprietary codes.

It is Direct and is an Open Platform.

GOOG wants to meet with all bar code reader developers.

I spoke to him about the NeoReader fairly extensively. He knows who NeoMedia is. He requested to know if the NeoReader was open sourced.

He stated that Google's product search would be involved in the barcode process.

Below, please find GOOG slide show presentation.















IMHO, by GOOG going open source and using the direct method, I believe that the Carriers get cut. The carriers will primarily support indirect, as this method is the revenue producing model, is permission based, demographic based, etc.

The PWC space has been besieged by fragmentation and infighting. There is alot going on; new committees being formed almost monthly. So from my perspective, there is a ways to go before we know if open source direct or closed source indirect will succeed, or if these can be complimentary models. Even Orange prefers indirect, as it the money generator...more on that later.

Either way, there are funding sources bringing in car loads of cash into this space and by GOOG going with a bar code reader, it will most assuredly lift other PWC boats. This space is here to stay and it will only continue to emerge at ever faster speed.

All the Best, JP