Back in November there was a flurry of interest when Bug Labs unveiled their BUG modular cellphone development platform and confirmed it would be compatible with Android: for the first time, homebrew coders and software specialists could trial their wares on proper reference hardware, previously only available to big developers, rather than relying solely on emulators.  Now pre-order prices and availability dates have been announced, together with a bundle offer, and Bug Labs are tentatively opening their doors to consumers.

The range consists of the BUGbase ‘Hiro P’ edition ($299), shown above, and four modules:

• BUGview touchscreen LCD ($99)
• BUGmotion motion detector & accelerometer ($49)
• BUGlocate GPS receiver ($79)
• BUGcam2MP 2-megapixel camera ($69)

Alternatively, a BUGbundle consisting of one of each is available for $549.  The BUGbase is the core of the system, being a fully programmable computer with a CPU, RAM, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, USB, Ethernet, MMC, and serial interfaces, and a small LCD with button controls.  While it lacks WiFi, Bug are developing a plug-in 802.11b/g module that will be offered at-cost to those who still buy one; also, they’ll receive a “von Hippel” I/O module.

Purchases are limited to one per-person and will begin shipping on March 17th; Bug Labs is suggesting that only experienced and somewhat capable developers pick up this first round of hardware since the software environment is very much in its fledgling status.

[via PHONE Mag]