HTC G1

The long-awaited HTC G1 (also called the "HTC Dream") smartphone with Google's Android operating system is finally available on the T-Mobile network. Aided by a unique appearance, abundant internal memory, and a powerful processor, the G1 is designed to appeal to smartphone users who demand dependable and constant online access.

Device Dimensions and Appearance

A hefty 158 grams, the HTC G1 slider smartphone measures 117 mm x 55.7 mm x 17.1 mm and features an external touch-sensitive display screen. Hidden inside the “sliding” portion of the device is a full 5-row QWERTY keypad. Available in white, black, and brown, the G1 features a large landscape-oriented display screen (portrait-orientation is also supported).

Display Screen Size and Functions

The device's generous 3.2 inch TFT touch-sensitive display screen offers a crisp resolution of 320 x 480 pixels. Unique screen features include handwriting recognition software and a responsive accelerometer sensor for smooth auto-rotation. A 3.15 megapixel camera (2048 x 1536 pixels) with autofocus is included, as is a digital compass.

Audio Options

Bluetooth v2.0 (headset only) is supported. The HTC G1 offers built-in hands free capabilities as well as voice memo options. Users can access audio files via an included MP3 player. The device supports polyphonic (40 channels), MP3, WAV, and WMA ringtones.

Connectivity Features

The G1 supports an array of communication options, in addition to the standard SMS and MMS. Users may access email accounts with the device's HTML browser and send and receive instant messages. Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g) is supported.

Processor and Memory

The HTC G1 is fueled by 192 MB RAM, 256 MB ROM and a Qualcomm MSM7201A 528 Mhz processor. Memory is expandable with the device's support for microSD TransFlash external memory.

Productivity Capabilities

Document viewer software and vast phonebook storage capacity contribute to the device's productivity support options. The HTC G1's browser also allows for tabbed-browsing and provides one-touch access to commonly used Internet resources like Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Talk, Google Maps, and YouTube. The device's Wi-Fi and 3.5G capabilities allow the device to instantly and automatically switch as needed to provide a superior Internet connection.

Android Market, the G1's online marketplace, boasts downloadable software as well as game and music offerings. There are constant updates featuring the latest and best offerings for your mobile.

Battery Specifications

Users can expect to receive up to 5 hours and 20 minutes of talk time from the device's 1150 mAh Li-ion battery. A single charge should also provide up to 406 hours of standby power.

HTC G1 Pros

Very responsive touchscreen is a huge plus compared to the slow speed of Windows Mobile
The inclusion of both a TFT touchscreen with handwriting recognition software and a full 5 row QWERTY keypad allows users flexibility with data entry
Wi-Fi and 3.5G options provide seamless Internet access
Android Market access gives users the opportunity to download and customize the software available on the device

HTC G1 Cons

Although the G1 provides users with the means to download and install further content, included software oferings are somewhat slim
Users who enjoy taking and sharing photos may be disappointed by the lack of extra features (such as video capture and flash) on the included 3.15 MP camera

Overall

The HTC G1 sports a tremendous leap in user-friendliness of smartphones with the help of the Android operating system from Google. If you're looking for an awesome, fast smartphone, the HTC G1 won't leave you disappointed.

Click on the photo for more information on the HTC G1