I have no doubt that Android will be successful, and Google won't see it as a financial burden. But in a completely open source model, where carriers still exert control, what steps can Google take to ensure that they will be able to generate revenue from the handsets and devices that use it going forward?

As for Microsoft, Ballmer should be thinking about effectively monetizing and growing its own mobile platforms. Ballmer misjudged Apple's game-changing product, and Android may prove to be another platform that erodes Microsoft's revenue opportunities and market position.

Larry Borsato has been a software developer, marketer, consultant, public speaker, and entrepreneur, among other things. For more of his unpredictable, yet often entertaining thoughts you can read his blog at .