Just to put at bay feelings of this sub forum's demise.... I bring forth this comentary :-)
Well, given the way things have changed, I'm assuming that the devices chosen back in '07 are no longer valid. Maybe this forum could be resurrected with some brainstorming about chips and chipsets available.
For instance, TI is coming out with some new stuff that integrates quite a lot of functionality an relatively few chips.
Maybe use th OMAP4 for the base processor, and the WiLink for the Bluetooth/WiFi/FM/GPS functionallity?
Screens really haven't progressed as much as one would like.. I'd really like to see a High speed color E-Paper.. But I dream too much I guess. The OLED based screens are starting to become more feasible though.
I'd still like to see a design that has the Cell radio be optional, and be change able easily. Can you say GSM or CDMA? Is there any way to merge the ideas presented here with the other people trying to accomplish very similar things?
Software wise.. Even though I'm a bit leary of either, maybe OpenMoko or Moblin/MeeGo/UbuntuMoblin? Don't really like RPM though.
The new Nokia looks like a nice device, but here in the US it's kind of a non starter because of the limited carriers available that are compatible with it.