Google just released a new phone in January 2010 called the Nexus One. Many think it could be a big challenge for Apple’s iPhone. Let’s take a look at the strengths and weaknesses of each phone compared to the other.
Pros of Apple iPhone:
- Industry support with 100,000 apps available through iTunes
- you can buy and play with one at an apple store
- longer battery life overall
- seamless integration with mac and iTunes (strong point for mac users)
- video capture up to 30 FPS
Advantages of Google Nexus One:
- 5MP camera with LED flash
- micro SD card slot (this is one of my things that annoys me with the iPhone)
- removable battery
- Noise canceling microphone to eliminate car / background noises.
- 3.7-inch screen compared to Apple’s 3.5-inch screen
- Screen from 480×800 pixels to 640×480 for iPhone
Cons of Apple iPhone:
- currently only available on the ATT network unless jailbroken (voiding warranty and ability to perform software updates)
- only 3MP camera without flash
- no micro SD slot
- non-removable battery
Cons of Google Nexus One:
- Cannot be purchased from a store, it is only available online
- Tmobile network: questionable coverage in many markets
- video capture rate up to 20 FPS
- lack of available apps
Now, some points can be easily remedied. Eventually, if the Nexus One succeeds, it will get more app support. Google could also allow its phones to be sold in stores. Both Apple and Google have plans to have their phones available on Verizon’s cellular network sometime in 2010, which many people think is a far superior cellular company when it comes to reliability and coverage.
As a Mac user, I still lean towards an iPhone, even with its flaws. I am also a bit concerned about the dominance of Google in our online lives. Google is an industry giant and more and more people are using its search engine, which tracks and stores all searches made. More people use your email than it has unlimited storage. They now have a new browser called Chrome to compete with IE, Firefox, and Safari. And now a phone.
I’m not sure I’m that comfortable dedicating much of my life to just one company. Their motto from the beginning has been “do no wrong,” but it gets a bit questionable when they have so much control, power, and influence. I don’t care who you are, absolute power corrupts absolutely.