Google Android - Review
Friday, October 24th, 2008
Google’s first Android phone may not win any beauty contests, but the Smartphone’s software and advanced Web browsing will give today’s current crop of Smartphones, including the iPhone, a run for their money.
The phone, previously code-named the HTC Dream, is now called the T-Mobile G1. From a hardware perspective, the G1 isn’t a game changer. The device, which has a full QWERTY keyboard that slides out from a touch-screen exterior, looks similar to other devices on the market, such as the T-Mobile Sidekick or Verizon’s LG Voyager.
But under the hood, the Google Android software greatly improves the mobile Web experience for users, making it a compelling competitor to the Apple iPhone and a hands-down winner when compared with other Smartphones like Research In Motion’s BlackBerry or phones running Microsoft Windows Mobile operating system.
That said, the G1 still has several hurdles to overcome to make a significant impact in the Smartphone market. Because it lacks corporate e-mail, it won’t likely take significant market share from either RIM.
For now, G1 is targeted at the consumer market, a fact Cole Brodman, chief technology and innovation officer for T-Mobile USA, acknowledged openly during the launch event.
When it comes to Web surfing, Google has created a user experience superior to what’s offered on most other Smartphones today. And for several networks, this was critical as companies are looking for a Smartphone to appeal to consumers looking for a robust mobile Web experience. (more…)