HTC Sensation 4G Unboxing

You know you've made it when HTC and the other big guys send you their latest and greatest to unbox and show off to your reader. That, unfortunately, isn't me. But Android devotees like PhoneDog has been good enough to share their experience with us mere mortals.

Here is their detailed and well put together unboxing and hands-on.



This is definitely the Android phone to get. Until the Galaxy S II comes State side, T-Mobile definitely has a winner on its hand. It'll be available June 12th.

T-Mobile Has Been Quiet With High End Android

T-Mobile just revived the Sidekick brand with Android as the basis. But since G2, there have not been any high end Android device that enticed me to sign up. I am eagerly waiting for the LG Optimus 2X. Due to my lack of familiarity with LG's track record in mobile and providing timely Android update, I am still waiting to see if HTC has something coming to T-Mobile.

Why T-Mobile? Well, it was the first US wireless network to introduce the first ever Android device, the G1. I was one of the first to rush to the website to order it. So you'll have to forgive me if I'm partial to T-Mobile.

This is what I hope to see from our favorite wireless provider here at On Android. I like to see the following three Android devices:

• Samsung Galaxy S II - this is the next upgrade from the Galaxy update.  It is a natural fit.  As one of the two networks without Apple's iPhone, I see Samsung and T-Mobile as a perfect fit to highlight non-Apple phones and devices, particularly Android.  And having it run on T-Mobile's HSPA+ network would be a plus.
• Because of Verizon's size and Google's eagerness to act as a check-and-balance to the Apple-ATT alliance, most people think Verizon And Droid when they think about Android.  Well, now that Verizon has the iPhone, I like to see Motorola bring the devices that are branded "Droid" to T-Mobile.  Yeah, give me a dual-core Droid-like device, and I'll sign up right this second.  Don't give me that Cliq or the Charm is the best Motorola can bring to the game here.  The Defy is okay but it's so 2009.  Give me Droid X2 or Droid 3 GSM version any day.  
• HTC - we need you.  The G2, while is a HTC-made phone, it is not branded so.  Regardless, HTC has been kind of MIA in my opinion.  Heck, give me the ChaCha which looks like the original Android prototypes.  Oh, but just don't call it the ChaCha on T-Mobile.  There's talk and rumblings about a high end device coming.  I hope so.  The G2 just isn't it.  

My hope is that T-Mobile will have a very active second quarter in Android.  After the Optimus 2X, maybe that'll be when we'll see a couple more high end devices for loyal T-Mobile fans. And yeah, I wouldn't mind seeing Sony's Play in here somewhere too.

Sony Brings Gaming To Android - Competition To Marketplace

Sony is all in with mobile gaming. Not only will it release it own mobile gaming device based on Android OS, Xperia Play "Playstation Phone", it is offering a coding environment for developers to create games for this Sony app. And it will require devices running the latest Android OS, 2.3.

How will this change things?

We're not exactly sure at this moment but this is very exciting news. Sony also introduced their next generation PSP, NGP "next-generation portable", that promises PS3 like graphics and gaming, we have to assume that this Android app will be a very different thing all together.

Still, having access to a library of PSP games is great news for Android gamers. These are games from top tier developers that have yet to commit to Android, or for that matter, Apple's iOS devices.

Sony only would commit to 2011 but would not say when that would be. This is likely a good move for Sony but for Android gaming, we might see a shift away from Marketplace if developers believe they can deliver quality gamings through Sony's setup than through Google.

Here are some key points from Sony's press release:

• Gaming and gamers have diversified. This explains why Sony is deliver a Playstation gaming environment on Android while developing PSP2 in tangent.
• Will offer a “PlayStation®Certified” license program for hardware manufacturers.
• Classic Playstation games will be offered - Woohoo!
• There will be a Playstation Store
• Will have SDK for developers to create games and sell through the PS Store
• Will require Android 2.3 and beyond.

On a level of a mobile warrior, this news from Sony is great. We're talking about increased competition for our wallets. It'll be interesting to see Sony's device competitors like Motorola, Samsung, LG, and HTC open up and install Sony's Playstation app.

Furthermore, this really has Nintendo, and maybe Apple, scramble back to the drawing board to come up with an answer. So stay tuned. I get the feeling well get more answers at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in June.

More at Android Community.

Motorola May Have A Future After All

Meet XOOM, Motorola's 10" tablet running Google-sanctioned Android, Honeycomb, on Nvidia's Tegra 2. And boy, this is the tablet that Samsung should have delivered for the Tab but jumped the gun on.

Here are some of the promo videos that I have managed to track down from the Web.

Aside from the pictures, videos, and specs, we don't know a lot about the user experience that it'll deliver. And I think Google will need to share more of those details. But I have to say Google has once again outdone itself.

The graphics I see are amazing and using a dual-core CPU doesn't disappoint. And let's just say this. The battery life is amazing, 10 hours of video playback. As far as I know, this even ties the iPad in battery life, albeit, last year's iPad.

Here are some questions that I like answered however.

1. How is the ZOOM different from other Tegra 2 and Honeycomb tablets?  They all appear to have to same specs.
2. Will this be stock Android or will Verizon Wireless, the exclusive carrier for the XOOM, think it can do better by "coloring" it with a skin and apps that we don't need or want?  This was a reference tablet of sort (though not called the Nexus tablet) when Google demo'd Android 3 back in December.
3. How is the app market?  Will we see an iPad-like translation in apps between the iPhone version and the iPad version?
4. The XOOM will initially come in a 3G version but will be upgradable to LTE.  Will this cost more?

Anyway, this is the Android tablet to get.  Well, we'll need to know what the prices are but from what I can, it's a good start for now.

Engadget has a nice little table with the specs for the ZOOM.  I encourage you to head over and check it out.  It looks like there will be only one version initially.  Listed is only a 32GB version.  I have a 32GB iPad model.  I would have like to see a 64GB version.  Trust me.  Apps for tablets take up a heck of lot more space than phone apps.

I think this not only sends a message to Apple, but also for RIM, Samsung, and everyone else competing in this market.  I also love to see what HTC has in store.  God, I love competition!

More at Engadget.

Android Device Makers That Also Make TV May Have Advantage Over Others That Just Make Tablets And Phones

Android device makers, Toshiba, Sharp, Samsung, and Sony, all have one thing in common that Android makers do not have. They made TV. Specifically, HDTV. And that potentially mean their Android tablets may have greater living integration than anything from HTC, Dell or Motorola.

Sure, Google TV is suppose to be on the TV only and Android is Android. Then again, HTC’s Sense or Moto Blur are all device specific skins that work to the strengths of individual device makers.

I look for for incumbent TV makers to leverage this advantage over the traditional device makers. What better way to distinguish their tablets from others in the field than to offer a tighter integration with their other hardware? It’s what Apple do in creating their second-to-none ecosystem.

For instance, Sony may marry its PSP with Android. So potentially, specific apps can be written for closer integration with the Bravia TVs and PS3. This is even a step further than what Toshiba, Sharp, or Samsung can do.

We’ll see in the next 12 months when what all this means and if what I predict pans out. Let’s just say, if this doesn’t happen, HTC and Samsung will take everyone else to school with their tablets.

Skins Makes Android Popular But Also Fragmentation

One of the things I try to talk about here is on how folks use Android and what changes and developments in the Android realm that impact users. Well, skins developed by various Android developers are having a positive effect on Android adoption.

These skins like Blur and Sense are aggregating pertinent updates for users and provide an UI that Google did not include with Android. And in the next update cycle or two, these skins will become more intricate. However, there could potentially be a risk for Android as a whole.

The skins allow Samsung, HTC, and Motorola to differentiate themselves from other Android developers and each other. After all, Android is just competing with the iPhone, Blackberry, and Nokia but also with each other. These companies that make Android devices (soon, tablets as well) will need to stand out. After all, Android hardware developers are also compete with each other as well.

However, the fear is that even as Android market suffers from partial fragmentation, skin developments may further create rifts in the platform. And I fear this may potentially become an issue for app developers as hardware makers modify their flavor of Android further based on the skin they created.

We'll know if this is truly going to be a problem. Right now most skins are mostly widgets to update Twitter, text, and Facebook feeds. But look for the skins to improve and become more sophisticated. Perhaps, it would be good for Google and its Android partners to come to some sort of agreement on skin development as well.

What I Learned At T-Mobile Store: Vibrant And HSPA+

I went to the T-Mobile store today to check out the Samsung Vibrant.  I'm still kind of on the fence about it.  But while I was there I thought I'd share a few things the employees there shared with me regarding HSPA+ and what T-Mobile has planned for it.

Right now, the HSPA+ network is still being built out and my neighborhood just got upgraded in the last month (which of course means nothing to you).  T-Mobile hopes to capitalize on the new network by offering data cards first for laptops where they can charge more for it.

Currently, there are no HSPA+ ready mobile devices.  As you probably know, the Vibrant isn't HSPA+ ready and the T-Mobile folks at the store aren't sure when the devices will be out to support it.  Well, as disappointed as I was, I really appreciate the  honesty.

Then I came across this Boy Genius Report post updating T-Mobile's HSPA+ plan for the rest of the year:

• New "4G-like speed" network will cover 185 million users by the end of the year.
• webConnect Rocket USB stick will get a broader roll out soon.
• Dell Inspiron Mini 10 will be available in store so you can use it with the webConnect.  I'm not sure why this is a big deal.  Can't you use it with other laptops or netbooks?
• Provided a list of cities that are currently HSPA+ ready.

As for myself, I really liked what I saw in the Vibrant and features and capabilities that I had the opportunity to play with.  I also asked the folks there about the battery life.  Now, they're there to make a sale so you'll have to take what they say with a grain of salt.  But they charge the Vibrant's battery overnight and it gets used and abused through the business hours by customers and it never needed an afternoon nap or anything like that.

If true, I'm impressed given what every is saying about Sprint's HTC EVO.  Oh, and the Vibrant took great pics and videos for a handset.  And playing "Avatar" on the 4" screen was absolutely incredible.  

I'm on a budget so I'm not going to go back in there until later in August at the very earliest.  Plus, I'm considering experiment going without wireless for a few months just to see how I adjust to a "normal" life.  But from ten to fifteen minutes I spent with the Vibrant, you can't go wrong with it.

Also, if you go on the Web to read reviews and hand-ons, you'll notice a lot of folks company about the lack of an LED flash for the camera and a frontal facing camera for video conferencing.  First, the vid chat.  There is no official Android protocol from Google for this feature.  Only Facetime from Apple works well from my experience.  Fring does not come close.  Vid chat is not going to take off for another year or two anyway.

But I can see the deal breaker being the lack of LED flash for the camera.  I don't understand the omission.  Other than that, the Vibrant lives up to its name.

More at BGR on the HSPA+ update.

Android App Market - Users Will Pay For Quality Apps

A couple of weeks ago, I noticed a post compared to other mobile users, Android users are downloading apps but not really buy them, meaning that Android users like free apps rather than paid ones.

I did not react well to it but then I took a look at the guy in the mirror and shut up. I’ve yet to buy one single app for my G1 while I’ve spent quite a bit for my iOS devices. Why?

I think the two platforms are going after different types of users and it isn’t to say that we Android folks are cheap. This is evident in that I do buy apps from the iTunes app store, just not from Marketplace. There are a couple of reasons.

Free Android Devices From T-Mobile and HSPA+ Deployed To More Cities

Below is a repost from Onxo where I discussed the great news of HSPA+ now more widely available to T-Mobile's customers.  And just in time as well.

On June 19th, T-Mobile will give free phones to customers who signed up for qualified plans.  And these are not the run-of-the-mill handsets.  These T-Mobile's top Android devices that are part of the mix.  So if you're looking for a great Android device, T-Mobile has something for you.  Here is a list of what'll be part of this deal on Saturday:

• HTC - myTouch 3G Slide - keyboard is rather decent in my tests
• HTC - HD 2 - pretty nice but runs an aged Windows Mobile
• Garminfone - just released and T-Mobile is making sure this is part of the Father's Day deal.
• MOT - Cliq XT - not the best Android phone but it'll be free!
• There are other Android but since they're kind of old, I don't think it's worth mentioning.

Now, the repost about the HSPA+ network T-Mobile has implemented:

Full disclosure.  I am partial to T-Mobile USA. And Sprint PCS was my first mobile service provider back in the, well, dark ages of cellular service.  It's it's difficult for me to pit the two against each other but since I'm with T-Mobile now, I'm going to plug them a bit here.  And there's good reason.

And T-Mobile has announced its next generation 3G service, HSPA+ for 25 metropolitan areas including major cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Houston, and Atlanta.  I've waited and waited and its finally here for my city.  By the end of June, HSPA+ service will cover 75 million users.  Devices that work includes 15 handsets and a dedicated USB modem, the webConnect Rocket.

Between now and then, T-Mobile hope to blanket over 185 million users with the service.  Furthermore, T-Mobile doesn't seem to imply it has issues its bigger rival, ATT, has.  Recently, ATT announced pretty anemic wireless plans that ration wireless Internet access.

T-Mobile, as well as Sprint, do not have any such plans.  In fact, T-Mobile is considering metered speed rather than rationed access.  Personally, with my two-year contract up and despite my love for the iPhone 4, I am not sure I'm going to migrate over to ATT just to use the latest and greatest mobile device from Apple.

More impressive is that T-Mobile seems to imply they've got plenty of bandwidth to go around.  I've advocated Apple bring the iPhone over to T-Mobile in the past and, recently, this seems more plausible.

So while Sprint has EVO, Verizon has Droid, and ATT has iPhone 4, T-Mobile has HSPA+ with devices like myTouch, Garminfone, and the upcoming Galaxy S from Samsung, T-Mobile's stars could be aligned for once:  strong lineup and the network to back it up.

More at Engadget, TmoNews,

Note:  HSPA+.  This is T-Mobile's "4G-like" 3G service with a theoretical upload of 21Mbps.  In reality, it's not even close but for the moment, users could care less as T-Mobile was a late comer to the 3G wireless services.  However, with this deployment, it has really surpassed Verizon Wireless as well as ATT and rival Sprint's WiMax, a true 4G wireless connection.

Another note:  On June 19th, T-Mobile will be offering phones to users who sign up for qualified plans.  A lot of these phones are Android-based.  This is one of the best deals I've seen.

Last note:  For more on the Father's Day deal, you can head over to T-Mobile or Tmonews has the scoop.

HTC EVO: I'm Calling It, Get It Over Incredible, Droid, Nexus One

If you happen to live in an area where you've got good Sprint coverage, and if you're the lucky few, with WiMax access, you need to get the EVO if you're in the market for an Android device.

Right now, I'd even recommend it over the iPhone 3GS.  Though as a fan of both Android and the iPhone, if you can wait until what Steve Jobs has to say on Monday, wait.

But you definitely can't go wrong with the EVO.  I do think you should get a second battery as one isn't going to be enough.

Another reason why the EVO with Sprint is would be a brilliant move.  Recently, ATT did itself a disservice by killing off the unlimited data plan.  While that might appeal to some users to save $5 a month, most mobile warriors I know will be severely limited by the 2GB limit.  Even if it's an Android device from ATT.

Having said that, Sprint's plans are still unlimited and allows the EVO to serve as a mobile hotspot.  You really cannot go wrong with that.

Also I recommend getting it at Best Buy or another location that has done away with the $100 rebate and offers the EVO to you for $199 straight up.  No nonsense about waiting for the rebate check.

Yes, get the EVO over the Droid (lame keyboard), Nexus One (dated now), and the Incredible.

Sprint To Charge $5 For Video Calls? How Not To Stop Momentum

The HTC EVO from Sprint, based on Android obviously, is one of the most anticipated mobile devices on the market this summer.

It not only matches other devices feature for feature, it is the first commercially available 4G phone.  On top of that, it has a frontal camera just waiting to use that 4G bandwidth.  And guess what?

It's going to cost $5 more a month for users to chat via video using Qik.  Add insult to injury, you'll have to set up a separate account with Paypal, not with your regular Sprint account.

Here's the question.  Not "why".  Sprint, are you out of your freaking mind?!  You're suppose to make it easier for people use the phone and access the features.  At the very very least, allow people to charge it to their Sprint account.

Heck, why not use Google's Checkout?  Just about everyone who uses an Android device has a Google account for mail.  It'll be easier than setting up a Paypal account.

It's not a major stumbling block but it may be enough of a hinderance for people to avoid using people.  Hope that Google will quickly bring video to Gtalk.

Phone Arena did mention that Fring will be offering video chat for free.  I think people will opt for this rather than setting up a Qik account, then setting up a Paypal account, and paying $5 for a game changing feature.

Plus, my experience with Fring hasn't been all that great.  Come on, Sprint, do something.

More at Phone Arena.

Who Should Make The Android Tablet

I am writing this post from my new iPad. I am also in the market for an Android tablet. But probably like you, who I am assuming to to get a dedicated mobile fan and Android devotee, have sethe nothing on the market that is compelling. Archos has made a valiant effort but no cigar. No iPad killer.

So I got to think. Why not HTC? Why?

One. HTC made the first Android device, the G1. Since then, Google entrusted the honor of making the Google phone, Nexus One, also to HTC. Here are probably a dozen or so Android and Windows Mobile devices on the market made by HTC.

Two. They also shows that they can out together pretty neat UI.

Third. They want to too be trusted by the consumers in the West. If they were to make a tablet to challenge the iPad, they would make damn sure that it has the mojos to back it up. That means making sure that the software is constantly updated. No nonsense about using Android 1.6 while 2.1 is available. Certainly, the design will also be top notch.

Sure, Motorola can also make a decent Android tablet but just because they hit it out of the park with the Droid doesn't mean lightning will strike twice. On the other hand, HTC has proven it has what it takes.

I think we are probably two to three months away from getting our hands on viable Android tablets, I will be waiting to make sure that I see what HTC has in stored for us before picking one up.

Sprint's HTC EVO Can't Chew Gum & Walk At the Same Time

There's bad news folks. When Sprint debuted the EVO at last week's CTIA conference, there was drool in front of every computer of every blogger and reader who were following the event.

Frontal camera. Running the latest Android version. And more importantly, it does WiMax. In the US, Sprint and Clearwire are the only one operating a viable semi-national 4G network.

But alas, while the EVO is a brilliant mobile device, there are some bad news.

The EVO can only make a call or surf the Web but it cannot do both. HTC said “If you’re using 4G for data, you can’t use CDMA for voice. Currently the only way to do simultaneous voice and data would be through a third-party VOIP solution. However, this is not due to strict hardware limitations, so it’s possible this could change with future updates.”

Since, HTC qualified the situation with the possibility that a fix is possible, I honestly wouldn't hold my breath. If you need to be able to make a call and look up things on the Internet wirelessly, the EVO isn't for you. It certainly isn't for me. I don't know if a fix would be forthcoming and I think Sprint and HTC would rather sell you an upgraded version than offer a feature that should have been available to begin with.

Anyway, I'm sure if there is a lot of concern about this, Sprint and HTC will work something out.

Source: Android Community.

Third T-Mobile Android Device On Sale Oct 19th - Does It "Cliq" With You?

On the whole, things can't be better for the Android platform in its young life than at any other time.  Sure, there are some rumbling of developer discontent with Google but that's nothing most Android mobile warriors need to worry about in the long run. There are seven known Android devices and a dozen or so more will be available worldwide.  In recent weeks, the attention has been focused on Motorola and its first Android device, Cliq, and T-Mobile will be the first to offer it to its subscribers.

Well, we finally know the details.  The Cliq will be available for pre-order from T-Mobile on October 19th through November 1st and available on November 2nd. Other details we know:

• $199 with a two-year agreement (ouch).
• Available in titanium or winter white.
• Available for sale national-wide or online.
• Like other Android devices from T-Mobile, data plan will be required.
• There is a sweepstake for folks who register to receive updates.
• Will run MOTOBLUR.  It supports "Updates to contacts, posts, messages, photos and more are streamed together and synced from sources including Facebook^®, Twitter™, MySpace^®, Gmail™, and work and personal e-mail. "
• 3.1" Screen
• 3.5mm Headjack!
• 5MP camera
• 2GB of SD card for external storage.
• More specs on the Cliq, please visit Motorola's Cliq page.

My first impulse was to get this as soon as I humanly can and drop my G1.  But after I've taken a breath or two, gotten some oxygen into my brain, reality set in.  $199.  I like Facebook.  I like Twitter.  And I like the idea of being able to access all my contacts and updates easily.  As nice as MOTOBLUR is, it's not for everyone.  And at $199, it isn't for me.  

I've looked through may comments from Android owners and potential buyers and while there is a lot of excitement, the price was higher than most expected.  Then there's the Boy Genius Report hands-on with the Cliq.  Like the HTC Hero, the Cliq suffered from sluggishness.  More damaging in my mind is the report about the battery life.  In BGR's words, " the Motorola CLIQ has possibly the worst battery life of any phone I’ve tested in recent memory with the current software. Maybe Motorola’s BLUR back-end isn’t optimized yet, maybe the phone software isn’t final, but this is ridiculously bad."

Bottom-line here:  If you're in the market for a smartphone, you can't go wrong with the G1, myTouch, Hero, or the Cliq.  Android is a rock-solid mobile platform supported by Internet giant, Google.  Having said that, the inner workings of these devices are more than a year old.  That was also the concerns of many commenters.  Not much has changed since the G1.  Given the price of the Cliq, one would expected better battery life and faster CPU.  Some more along the line of the jump from iPhone 3G to 3GS.  Unfortunately, that is not the case.

For currently Android owners, I preach patience.  For instance, the Acer A1 sport a 768Mhz CPU, a 45% increase over the 528Mhz CPUs used by the current Android lineup.  That's what I'd wait for.  And when Android 2.0 comes out, Android devices may require additional resources and horsepower that the current Android devices will have trouble keeping up.  For instance, Android competitors sport 8-32GB of internal storage.  

Still, like I said above, things are looking up for Android fans and I expect better devices in 2010.  Should the Cliq drop to $99 or less, I'll revisit my decision.  After all, the iPhone can be had for $99 and the Palm Pre as little as $79.  T-Mobile and Morotola needs to do more to draw in more adopters.

I'll be visiting my local T-Mobile store on November 2nd so I can play around with one.  And I suggest other Android fans do the same.

More on the Cliq pre-order, here is T-Mobile's press release and the pre-order page.

Post-Android News (Updated September 24, 2008)

The prudent thing is to wait a few days or even a week after an event we had this week with the introduction of G1 by Google and, really, T-Mobile to the world.

There was a lot of excitement.  But as the details came out, we feel less and less thrilled about what we see.  To begin with, the comparison to the iPhone was missing but there were subtle jabs at Apple's walled garden.  And Apple doesn't deny that.

However, to say that Android is open is not true at all.  There's spin so I don't want to call anyone a liar.  Let's face it.  It's Google OS for all intent and purposes.  Not all apps will be allowed on G1.  T-Mobile made sure VOIP, for one, does not make it onto the G1.

Then T-Mobile went ahead to cap the 3G access at 1GB.  It was only furor over such fine print that T-Mobile removed the statement and vague warned potential customers that we are still subject to speed bumps if we get in the way of them running a smooth 3G experience.

After some musing, I've decided to give the G1 another look.  I really want to see one in person and feel it in my hand before going ahead and order one.  I love the fact that Google has developed an OS and looks to change how mobile users work, play, and communicate.

Plus, Google is a formidable competitor in any arena they enter because they are young, hungry, and with deep pockets.  Google has been laying the ground work for Android to do well.  Look for multiple devices based on Android to hit the market.  G1 is just the first step.  We've mentioned before whoever makes apps work outside of mobile handhelds will have the potential gain customers outside of the customary smartphone market.

So, those are my thoughts.  Now, here are some from others across the political spectrum on mobility.

Thoughts in specs, features, and plans:

• jkontherun on T-Mobile's 3G backtrack.  They are also suspicious.
• Onxo on why T-Mobile was less evil today.
• CNet's side-by-side comparison between the iPhone and G1. Some info already dated like the 1GB cap.
• GigaOM thinks there's more to this T-Mobile spin about the 1GB cap.  This is like when Google tried to pull a fast one over us with the Chrome statement.
• Silicon Alley Insider offers another perspective on T-Mobile's attempt to handicap Android.

Comparison with iPhone (it's funny, really.  Nokia, RIM, Palm, and Blackberry seem so irrelevant):

• Gizmodo on comparing developing for our two favorite companies.
• Onxo wants more than specs comparisons.  
• TechNewsWorld says there are factors to consider in choosing.  
• Engadget offers video comparison between iPhone and G1 and other G1 videos.
• Gizmodo's post of all their posts.
• iPhone Matters linked to InfoWorld to discuss SDK.

Those who think Android is subpar:

• Former Google manager can't understand Android.
• Marketwatch does not see a market changer in G1.
  
• Wired on how Google can save Android.  Fragmentation is the word of the day.
• jkOnTheRun on G1's limitations and how developers can fill the gap.
• Silicon Alley calls G1 "safe".  
• Mossblog lukewarm on G1.  MacDailyNews' commentaries.
• Seeking Alpha on Jonathan Ives but also talked about Android.  MacDailyNews' commentaries.
• Roughly Drafted on Android challenges.  It's as if we have to choose between the iPhone or G1 for President.  
• Appleinsider believes there is nothing similar that warrants comparison.
• iPhone Matters - 10 things iPhone has to do to catch up to G1? (updated Thusday noon)
• Business Week - Don't underestimate Apple either.
• iSmash Phone analyzes where G1 falls short. (updated Thusday afternoon)
• Mainstream media now realizes G1 shortcomings.

Those who think Android hit it out of the park:

• SF Gate asks if Google is evil.  
• Google's word on Android.
• CNet doesn't think Apple, RIM, and Microsoft should  underestimate Android.
• Android Guys compare G1 to Amiga.  
• Phandroid offered a view and video from the perspective of an Android fan.
• TmoNews on G1 unlocking and new data issues.
• Engadget offers what they like or don't like about G1.
• Symbian Freak asks if Android will put Symbian to rest.  Guys, this is Nokia with a lot of deep pocket too.  Oh, but it's Nokia.
• Time believes Jobs is in danger of repeating history with Android.  Macdaily's pro-Apple rebuttal.

Those who think Google will have to work hard but are in the middle and news:

• FT thinks there are a lot of players who will give Android a lot of competition.
• LA Times thinks this will be a long long duel.  I agree.
• Electronista reports Sony mulling Android.  This was not unexpected.  Android powered PSP, anyone?
• Kotaku reports Gameloft will make games for Android.
• Crunchgear reports Google offered final Android SDK to everyone, not just folks they like.  If you recall, they secretly gave certain developers a version of SDK not available to everyone.  I think Google did apologize for getting caught, not for the deed itself.
• Wired on programmers who got rejected by Apple.  Not all are going to Android.
• Android Guys on G1 shortcomings.  Good and honest.  Very fair.

Sites With Live Blogging on G1 Press Event

Here are Sites with live blogging for tomorrow's Android press event:

• Cnet (My experience in the last is that they're pretty slow - like they're mesmerized, it's as if Jobs had it reality distortion field on at maximum)
• Gizmodo - Excellent source
• Engadget - Excellent source
• Android Community
• Android Guys 
• Livecrunch 

And of course, you can go directly to T-Mobile to watch the webcast.  If you're here before the event starts, you can catch up on pre-launch news, analysis, and predictions on the new Android device.

Please also visit Onxo and On Apple for news and analysis on mobile issues and Apple mobile devices respectively.