Electronics
By Molly McLaughlin on December 24, 2009 in

Google Android

After the launch in September 2008 of the first Android phone - the underwhelming T-Mobile G1, many analysts were ready to write off the Google Android operating system altogether. Critics were initially excited about the potential of the new OS, but as time went on with no new handsets, excitement waned. In 2009, Android finally took flight and a multitude of handsets were released in the U.S. on T-Mobile, Sprint and Verizon Wireless - but not AT&T. The OS can also be found in the Barnes and Noble Nook ebook reader and the Acer One netbook and a multitude of other devices. Android fever hit its peak with the release of Motorola's Droid, the manufacturer's first dip into this territory. There are also forthcoming unlocked Android phones like the intriguing Saygus VPhone.

While AT&T does not currently offer any Android phones, GSM models like the HTC Magic (T-Mobile's MyTouch 3G) and the HTC Dream (T-Mobile G1) are available unlocked from third party retailers. Be warned: these unlocked models may not support all of AT&T's features. Technorati reports on unlocked Android phones and points to the Android Developer website, which offers some customizable unlocked handsets for sale.

If you're thinking of making the jump to an Android smartphone, here's our picks for the best handsets by carrier, with links to our full cell-phone reviews.

 T-Mobile

T-Mobile MyTouch 3G (Android 1.5 )

Pros:

  •   Lightweight design
  •   Easily customized user interface
  •   Runs multiple applications simultaneously
  •   App store offers more than 6,000 apps
  •   Syncs with Outlook Exchange email

Cons:

  • No syncing with Outlook calendar or contacts
  • Can only save apps to microSD card
  • Average reception and call quality
  • Read-only attachments
  • Mediocre media playback

Sprint

HTC Hero (Android 1.5 )

Pros:

  • Impressive interface
  • Good call quality
  • Responsive touch screen
  • Standard 3.5 mm headphone jack

Cons:

  • Sluggish speeds
  • Poor camera
  • Lackluster multimedia performance

Verizon Wireless

Motorola Droid (Android 2.0)

Pros:

  • Large, excellent display
  • Fast web browsing
  • Good call quality
  • Very long battery life

Cons:

  • Awkward QWERTY keyboard
  • Slider feels loose
  • Poor camera
  • Mediocre media integration
Tags: Since You Asked

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