Qix is a product of Zi Corporation, and it’s an on-device system for helping users quickly and easily discover the many features of today’s more advanced handsets. Currently available for Windows Mobile and Symbian handsets, Qix’s technology introduces a native enhanced search functionality that helps users make the most of their handset. Basically, with Qix, you could simply dial ‘522’, and you would be presented with a screen full of options, from the ability to actually just dial 522, to the phone realizing that 522 also spells ‘JAC’, and that you have a folder full of Jack Johnson music on your phone, and offering a direct link to that folder. (example ‘borrowed’ from the Qix homepage).
Telus, one of the major Canadian carriers, is going to be the first North American operator to offer Qix as part of their OEM customization, so that it will be built into every handset. Obviously the first handsets supported will be Windows Mobile and Symbian-based, but the goal is to have it available even on the featurephones, for all users.
I think it’s pretty cool that for once, carrier customization’s goal is to make it easier to use a handset, rather than to restrict features and lock things down. Obviously the ulterior motivation of highlighting more revenue-producing features of the handset is there, but I think that’s more of a lovely side effect, personally.