In these mobile-obsessed times, the indication of intent to release a new handset is enough to generate Beatle-like mania.

In that respect, Google may have disappointed some industry watchers last week by failing to announce its hotly-anticipated Gphone. But it did create something of a stir with the launch of the Open Mobile Alliance and Android platform to support development of fancy mobile gewgaws.

It is too early to analyse the impact of any ensuing releases – so mobile users are advised not to cancel their iPhone subscriptions just yet. But what is sure is that any developments coming out of this group will be well worth keeping a close eye on. With industry giants such as Motorola, HTC, T-Mobile and Intel joining Google, there is real potential to solve issues such as mobile web page design and document viewing.

However, the efforts will need to be something very special to tempt business users away from their current Symbian or Windows Mobile investments.