So far, the future of Access’s ALP platform was more than bleak – after Samsung discontinued the only planned box based on this OS, fans of this particular blend of mobile Linux were left standing in the rain. However, it looks like ALP may be revived:

The logo above is the company logo of an Israeli start-up called Emblaze. So far, the boys have done little except produce hot air – but their Monolith project sounds interesting (emphasis by me):

Following 5 year of research, EM has embarked on an ambitious project to design the ultimate holistic mobile device. EM signed contracts in 2007 with Japanese giants Sharp and ACCESS to build, manufacture, and globally market the new device. In addition, EM is partnering with over 20 third-party mobile technology vendors, all of whom are the leading innovators in their specific field of mobile ingenuity. Together what will easily be the most sophisticated and revolutionary device in the market.

The driving principle behind this futuristic project is to create an integrated communications device with a unique user interface and graphics design, the likes of which has never been seen in the industry. This Linux based device is not a mere phone, but rather an application centric device that acts as a full blown media and communications center. Built upon a completely brand new mobile software platform, the Monolith seamlessly integrates telephony and messaging , personal information management, push-technology information and media, mobile office access, GPS navigation and location based services, web browsing, mobile media player, and more.

The Monolith hardware specifications are equally groundbreaking: The device features the ultimate lineup in the mobile technology world, including an extended definition touch sensitive display, unmatched processing power, a high end camera, and virtually every wireless connectivity technology known to man.

Scheduled for release in H1 2009, the Monolith will revolutionize the mobile world and will provide a mobile user experience never before soon.

As of now, nobody knows if the software provided by Access will be NetFront or ALP. However, seeing that Sharp has little experience in OS development, I consider it highly likely that the box will be based on some sort of Access Linux OS (with or without the Palm OS compatibility layer).

We have already contacted Emblaze, and currently wait for a response – stay tuned for further info as we get it!