After a blog reported of a Microsoft mobile platform device that is "wearable, always on, no larger than 10 inches, connected through 3G networks, pen-based", it was found that there existed a Microsoft registered site OrigamiProject.com. Though nothing is known, it is clear that the project will be launched on March 2, 2006. It is believed to stand for a new mobile platform, between Windows Mobile and the superior Windows XP Tablet PC Edition.
Ironically in 2001, National Semiconductor Corporation unveiled a handheld concept integrating Internet and multimedia functions in a portable unit dubbed the Origami Mobile Communicator. A small, diminutive device it took its name from the Japanese art of paper folding because of its flexible and foldable frame. The proof-of-concept device packed eight key electronic functions within its tiny frame and was jointly developed by National Semiconductor, Studio RED Inc. and CoCom International Ltd.
It is unlikely that Microsoft will present the same 10 ounce 7.5 by 4 inches prototype on this occasion. The rumor is that Microsoft will unveil its new mobile platform, most likely a touch screen supportive platform based on Windows Vista. Barring the Xbox Microsoft is not known for its hardware, but rather specifies the hardware requirements for each of its software. The "Origami Project" is therefore seen to be different in that it is expected to be a platform that Microsoft has missed as far as the mobility evolution. Sony offers this in Sony PSP and Apple's plans for an upcoming device is already known.
If the Origami Project has anything to do with mobile devices, it will be something that offers greater functionality than the Windows Mobile and Windows CE platforms. It will then be a platform that makes the current dual core operating systems and platforms obsolete. Some believe that the Origami is a new code for a tiny portable device demonstrated and described last year at Microsoft's Windows Hardware Engineering Conference.
The description outlined then was of an ultra-portable, mini-Tablet weighing close to a pound, bearing an all-day-long battery and integrating camera, phone and music playing in one device. But then the 2001 National Semiconductor Origami Communicator too was a versatile device with a flexible form that turned from smartphone to a digital camera, video camcorder, MP3 player, PDA, Internet or mailing device or conferencing terminal. With Bluetooth connectivity and Microsoft Windows Embedded XP operating system, it was hailed as an industry-shaping product.
But Bill Gates who held up a dummy in the last year's conference said it was a device on which Microsoft has worked at “the chip level and the display level to make sure that… this can be something well under $1,000”. At that time he had dubbed it the Ultra Mobile 2007 but it remains to be seen whether the Origami Project has to do with 2001 Origami Communicator or is a new product that combines the best features of the iPod, Blackberry and Treo.
