+Google’s Nexus One – To Buy or Not To Buy? Updated
The Nexus One, IPhone’s new rival, is due to be launched in the UK in the next few weeks, and there have been more reviews about this contender for the super-phone crown than contentious expense claims by MP’s. So, has it been recommended by the experts? This article summarises some key reviewers’ views to help prospective purchasers make up their minds.
Overall, you may not be surprised to hear, the jury appears to be still out. Firstly, though, a summary of the pros and cons set against the IPhone:
Pros: cheaper, much quicker processor, no irritating delays in loading software, higher resolution screen, background noise cancelling technology in the microphone, more user friendly software, speech activation and email dictation, better camera with flash, and ability to “geotag” photos with the location.
Cons: poorer battery life, touch sensitive buttons fiddly to use, currently much fewer apps available.
Bobbie Johnson of the Guardian, here, concludes “This debut model falls short of the smooth and totally intuitive design that Apple came up with.”
Alex Pell of the Times states “So is it time to put your iPhone on ebay and invest in a new Nexus? Not just yet, Impressive as it is, there are flaws.”
John Naughton, of the Observer, here, whilst very impressed, says “Whatever else the Google phone is, an “iPhone killer” it ain’t.”
PC Advisor, here, concludes: “Google Android 2.1 represents a step forward for Google’s already impressive operating system, and the Google Nexus One seems like the ideal handset to show off the new OS’s skills. But early adopters have reported teething troubles, so it may be worth waiting a few months before upgrading to the Nexus One.”
TechRadar, here, goes for the Nexus – “If we’re looking at this scientifically, the Google Nexus One is the clear winner. Better specs, larger screen, newer phone –it sounds pretty good. But you try arguing with the sales of the iPhone so far, or ask yourself which phone your Mum would prefer – it’s Apple’s baby every time, thanks to it being so darn simple to use. But for us, the winner here is the Nexus One – it’s got an open source OS, has better hardware and more freedom for customisation.”
The Recommended Directory concludes that, despite the criticisms, the Nexus One is definitely worth considering if you haven’t already got a super-phone, but it may be best to wait a little while. Until then, the Apple iPhone retains its super-phone crown.
Why? Firstly, the Nexus is currently only available direct from Google – it is expected that the major networks will begin offering it shortly.
Secondly, we understand Google have had a lot of complaints – mainly about whether it supports the 3G network, and some software glitches – but there appears to be many difficulties experienced over who is dealing with the complaints – Google or HTC (the manufacturer). All this will take a little while to iron out, and in the meantime it could be like getting your new train set fixed up, only to find the Fat Controller has gone on holiday..
