Open-source projects can prove tricky to convert into dollar-collecting businesses, but OpenMoko seem to be doing a pretty good job with their Neo 1973 cellphone.  The device – which is an unlocked handset complete with full developers kit available so that individuals, businesses and organisations can shape the phone to their own needs – suffered from some delays recently, but OpenMoko are now announcing that it’ll be on-sale to developers as part of the $600 Neo Advanced kit from July 9th, with an initial batch of 1,000 handsets winging their way from the FIC factory in China.  A retail version, the Neo Base, will land in October priced at around $450.

Supplied unlocked for you to use any GSM SIM you have, upgrades to the handset include b/g WiFi, an improved CPU (a 400MHz Samsung, up from 266MHz in the original spec), four times more internal flash memory (256MB), a graphics accelerator (the SMedia 3362 G) and two 3D accelerometers giving that sexy iPhone-esque auto rotate.

The Neo Base kit includes the following:

• Neo 1973
• Battery
• Stylus
• Headset
• AC Charger
• Phone Pouch
• Lanyard
• SanDisk 512MB MicroSD Card
• Mini USB Connectivity Cable

The Developer’s Pack adds:

• Extra Battery
• Extra SanDisk 512MB MicroSD Card
• Extra Mini USB Connectivity Cable
• USB Host Mode Cable
• Debug Flex Cable
• Debug Board v2 (JTAG and serial console)
• Ruggedized Toolbox with shoulder strap
• Guitar Pick (for opening case)
• Torx T6 screwdriver

Any programs created by developers will be available to fellow Neo owners regardless of carrier, and three more product lines are expected next year. 

OpenMoko [via SlashGear]