UIQ has update to v3.3, which starts off by finally supporting 5-way d-pads and dedicated end and send buttons on the devices. UIQ v3.3 is designed to bring the interface to the mass market through several important user experience improvements.
UIQ v3.3 will have Opera Mobile 9.5 loaded as the default web browser, bringing desktop-like web browsing to mobile smartphones with support for Opera Widgets and the UIQ Widget Dashboard. The entire user interface has been updated to offer consistent menu options and navigation.UIQ v3.3 is also optimized to work with operator customization packages, which will hopefully enable UIQ-based handsets to more easily pass operator testing and branding requirements.
The platform now allows operators to use branded application launchers, folders, and widget dashboards. UIQ v3.3 also brings a new ability to use less powerful processors, which will enable new price points and form factors to be introduced.
For application developers, the new is able to use applications compiled for previous versions, meaning there is no extra work for compatibility. In addition, UIQ v3.3 is now supported with on-device debugging for Carbide.c++ v1.3 Developer and Professional Editions and is now fully supported in Carbide.c++ UI Designer.
Both Sony Ericsson and Motorola will begin using the new UIQ v3.3 version soon, though it’s unclear whether the update will be available for existing handsets.
