Google has begun soliciting end users for ideas about how it can improve and develop new mobile devices, further embracing the "open" nature of its Android operating system.
Google launched a new website last week called Product Ideas, which will allow consumers to provide ideas for improving Google's mobile presence. Users then vote on the idea and those that receive the strongest support may eventually be considered by Google for development.
The Internet search giant made a splash in the mobile space in 2008 with the launch of Android and the T-Mobile G1, the first phone in North America running on the OS. Many handset makers, including LG, Motorola, Samsung and Sony Ericsson have said they will make Android-based phones in 2009.
Some of the more popular suggestions so far include a mobile application within Google Maps that would speak driving directions, the ability to sync the Google calendar, and, probably to Google's chagrin, a Google Reader application for Apple's iPhone 3G.
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