Firm 'needs all the help it can get', says Current Analysis

Motorola has launched its new Motodev programme in an effort to attract more developers to its products including mobile devices and digital set-top boxes.

Motodev will combine the company's existing Motocoder, iDen and Horizon developer programmes, which were aimed at developers of mobile applications, business applications and set-top entertainment systems respectively.

"Compelling user experiences are what win in today's marketplace, and innovative software is the key," said Motorola chief executive Ed Zander.

The programme kicks off with the launch of a new developer website. Motorola also plans to introduce new services to help developers build and market applications by providing technical resources and extended business initiatives.

Motorola's developer programme for mobile phones currently has a very poor track record, according to Ken Rehbehn, a research director with Current Analysis. "They need all the help they can get," he said.