Citrix, OK Labs bring virtual desktop on smartphone

CHICAGO, USA: Open Kernel Labs (OK Labs), a provider of embedded virtualization software for mobile phones and broadband Internet devices, and Citrix Systems Inc., announced the "nirvana phone" reference architecture, using virtualization to enable both mobile communications and office desktop-type productivity.

Also Read: India moves to virtual desktops from servers

The Nirvana phone allows users to access virtual desktop and applications from a single device, in any location. With support for docking to full-sized displays, keyboards, mice and other PC-type peripherals, nirvana phones will offer mobile workers a complete "virtual desktop in your pocket".

The nirvana phone reference architecture emerges from the partnership between OK Labs and Citrix, together with semiconductor suppliers and handset OEMs to enterprise IT suppliers and mobile network operators (MNOs).

The design builds on mobile-to-enterprise (M2E) virtualization and readily-available functionality like mobile virtualization, cloud computing and wireless connectivity (3G, WiFi, Bluetooth).

The nirvana phone reference architecture also incorporates emerging capabilities in mobile chipsets and handsets like full resolution video and HD output.

Chris Fleck, VP, Community and Solutions Development, Citrix, said: "The nirvana phone takes smartphones to the next level by bringing M2E from paradigm to platform and ultimately to product. As HD video and other capabilities come on line in mobile chipsets, Citrix and OK Labs are working together to give OEMs a clear path to building handsets that meet the needs of IT organizations and mobile workers alike, delivering virtual desktops and applications to virtualized mobile devices."

Steve Subar, President and CEO, OK Labs, said: "The nirvana phone will provide groundbreaking capabilities without breaking IT budgets with exotic technology. The nirvana phone represents a near-term paradigm shift - OK Labs, Citrix, and our ecosystem partners envision real-world converged nirvana devices enabled for both mobility and desktop productivity entering the market within 12 to 18 months."