Earlier this week, Microsoft introduced a new web site and mobile application called on{X} (pronounced "on-ex"), which helps developers and technology enthusiast to remotely program their smartphones. First available for Android, on{X} allows to control and extend the capabilities of Android smartphones using a JavaScript API to remotely program it. on{X} - a developer oriented service that enables developers and technological enthusiasts, to easily program mobile device to dynamically react to the continuously changing environment - triggers sensor-based events. For example: "AC power disconnected" or "WiFi network detected" can execute further actions.

Each triggering event can easily allow reactions. However, instead of limiting the reaction to a simple list of actions, Microsoft is offering the full power of JavaScript.

on{X} is a new concept and Microsoft says it's a multi-platform framework that enables continuous sensing & interaction via powerful JavaScript reactions to real-world activities. While the development team started on{X} on Android phones, it's said it will be followed by more platforms in the future.

Microsoft's on{X} Beta 0.52 is now available free of charge from the Google Play Android Market but requires a Facebook ID for authentication. However, Microsoft mentions that additional authentication methods will be added very soon.

Cheers ~ Arne