If DigiTimes sources are correct, Motorola may be getting ready to outsource the development and manufacturing of future 3.5G Windows Mobile smartphones. It appears that doing so would allow Motorola to sell smartphones for a retail price below USD$350. Motorola has apparently been in contact with Compal Communication, Chi Mei Communication Systems (CMCS) and Arima Communications to discuss such arrangements.
Only the Motorola Q series would not be affected. The internal design team that has so far worked on the Q would continue to develop future models in the successful series.
New OEM partner arrangements are expected in early 2008 with new devices starting to ship as early as second quarter 2008.