The first device to be released that takes advantage of Verizon's Open Development Initiative may not be what you were expecting. It's not a cool flip, a svelte slider or even an advanced touchscreen phone. As a matter-of-fact, most people will never even see the product, though they may appreciate the job that it does. This rather plain looking device monitors fill levels of holding tanks (think large fuel tanks) and will send off a text message alerting the customer when the tank goes below a certain level.
Though the average reader may find this device boring and mundane, a device such as this can translate into saving fuel, time and money. With prices escalating everywhere on almost everything, anything that helps to lower costs is certainly a welcome addition.
Under the Open Development Initiative, wireless devices that have gone through Verizon's certification can connect to their wireless network. Verizon will wholesale the network access for the devices but will not provide customer support.
[via Yahoo! News]
image credit: Associated Press
