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The iPhone might be the hottest tech toy out there right now, but it pales in comparison to the amount of change that Android can — and possibly will — bring to the mobile world. With the first open network for users and open platform for developers, everything will change.
Google and T-Mobile recently announced one of the biggest developments in the mobile industry, and things are bound to get very interesting, as the competition heats up between mobile telecommunication companies. Prices will lower, service will expand and functionality will increase. BlackBerry and iPhone, you better watch out.
The Old, Closed Method of Mobile Service
For years, people have wondered why they can't do what they want to do on their mobile devices. But why should a mobile device be any different from a Windows, Mac or Linux system? After all, aren't these devices created to make our lives easier? It seems fitting that mobile devices would become more open by now.
Unfortunately, telecommunication companies have made it a habit to cripple mobile devices — taking away any potential advancements from phone manufactures (like Nokia) and practically rendering those devices useless. Devices with amazing potential were rendered as simple, dumbed-down cell phones, and, a few years ago, a cell phone was exactly that.
Today, cell phones need to do more than what they were traditionally allowed to do. Businesses and consumers want this.
When looking at recent times, the past two years have lead to exceptional developments with devices like the iPhone — users can download and install applications that they want to. However, even that was not enough, as major problems still exist with that system:
- The iPhone is the only device that can take advantage of applications on the iTunes store
- AT&T is the only carrier that officially supports the iPhone
- Developers have to jump through hoops to get listed on the iTunes store
- Users have been left disappointed with the lack of openness
- Users are complaining about the poor service of the 3G network
- The iPhone is incapable of allowing more than one application to run at a time
- Oh, and the iPhone's power adapter isn't particularly safe
Admittedly, the iPhone is a great device, not to mention the fact that it is a ton of fun to play with. But Apple's controlling attitude coupled with AT&T's remnants of old mobile industry thinking have ultimately lead to the potential for things to get even better, and they will.
Now, how ironic is it that Google might be seen as the company that helped to open up everything in the mobile industry? Seriously, what doesn't Google do these days?
The New, Open Android Way
The mobile industry is a fascinating place to be in right now. Changes that have been only a dream a few years ago are happening before our eyes. The opening of mobile networks that Android has demanded might simply overshadow any future development on a mobile device or service for years down the road. If it succeeds, it will make history.
Recently, most of the aforementioned issues with the iPhone were addressed with T-Mobile's official announcement of the G1 device. With the G1, users will be able to install any application they so desire, have an open system that anyone can develop for, interact with what looks to be a faster performance from the 3G network and enjoy multiple applications running at the same time.
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