We now know for sure that Android IS NOT a fly by night, get it out there quick and dirty project – but instead a well thought out platform. According to Chow, HTC has been for more than two years with Google on Android. For the sake of HTC’s partnership with Microsoft, Chow underscores the fact that HTC is still fully committed to Windows Mobile, but “Android is, for HTC, a good opportunity to expand our portfolio.” Chow believes that Windows Mobile is strong for enterprise customers, while Android is more consumer focused with “that kind of an internet experience.”



From what I can gather from the interview, Android will NOT run on any current hardware.

Do they have anything to be concerned about Android running on current hardware? Will you or somebody somewhere be able to release a build of Android that you can throw on your Shadow or your Tilt or what have you?

Well if we want to be successful or successful products, we have to think of things holistically -- the whole thing. You need it to really impress people. Instead of just doing things here or there -- I've never seen a product that was very successful in that fashion. So I think there are no worries about that. We are actually very disciplined and professional and try to do these things separately.

Is that something you have the intention of doing? Using current hardware platforms to run Android?

No.
Even though Chow didn’t come right out and say it, (my gut tells me to watch out for HTC and if I had any money --- to run out and buy HTC stock) HTC roadmap for 2008 and 2009 will kick ass. With Android’s open platform along with ZERO licensing cost, will allow HTC to create some cutting-edge mobile devices.

The Engadget Interview: Peter Chou, CEO of HTC

John Wang with HTC
Chief Innovation Wizard - MAGIC Labs

In the video below, captured at Mobius 2007 in Amsterdam, John Wang - COO of HTC passionately spoke about their continued commitment to Windows Mobile as well as Android and other platforms to deliver the best possible user experience.

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyJoYTK_PeE[/ame]