I'm not so sure. This idea of commoditizing handsets seems somewhat myopic considering that there are many different proven streams for revenue, possible even whilst sharing a common platform; for example: the distribution of content (eg. iTunes), tight integration with complimentary devices (eg. DLNA/Samsung home automation), ad revenue, different app stores, etc.

I'd say that forward thinking companies can remain competitive without much differentiation, so long as they use their moblie offerings as an 'in' to continue to sell to consumers, rather than relying on the devices themselves as the sole generator of profits. This may be related to the 'free razor' marketing scheme if/when it comes to that.

The Archos' of the world may find themselves fighting over scraps.