Chandhok, meanwhile, knows a thing or two when it comes to where mobile trends are headed. As part of his responsibilities, he runs Qualcomm's innovation center. The Internet services division originally delivered data services to feature phones but has since transitioned to focus on services designed for sophisticated smartphones.
In regard to HTML5, Chandhok said it's just easier to build apps using that standard. It takes a lot of work to update and tweak an app, which also requires the consumer to download a new version. Because it's browser based and works like a Web site, the HTML5 app could be changed on the fly.
"It's economically important for people to do," Chandhok said.
With the PC moving to browser-based programs and services, Chandhok said he sees a similar migration on the wireless side. Despite running on a browser, it feels like an app, he said.
One obstacle for HTML5 right now is the inability for such programs to take advantage of a phone's different features, including the camera, global positioning system, or accelerometer. A native application has access to the phone's software development kit, allowing it to work with the hardware to provide different services such as augmented reality or directions to a shop.
Other people are just getting up to speed on HTML5 and figuring out what they can do with the code.
"You'll see a smoothing out of the experience," he said.
While HTML5 will become more popular, Chandhok said he doesn't see native applications going away. Instead, he expects there to be a mix of native and Web-based apps.
Which, thankfully, means plenty more fodder for this column.
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