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New: T-Mobile G1 with Google

September 23rd, 2008

I watched the press conference this morning for the T-Mobile G1 with Google. In a word, “interesting.” Clearly, this is a competitor to the iPhone, which is now in version two of its evolution. The G1, running on Android, has many attractive features and makes some not-so-subtle challenges to Apple. During this conference, there were a few unmistakable clues as to how hard this new device is going to work to earn a share.

First, T-Mobile stated that the marketing campaign for the G1 would be its largest ever for a mobile device. That’s impressive. Also, they have partnered with Google.

Second, the founders of Google made a “surprise” visit to the press conference. They are geek super-celebrities. And, the fact they showed up to the events says a lot about their commitment to establishing Google as a major mobile device player. Imagine the power of Google at your fingertips, and how much faster search can work for you in this device compared to others. They argued that search on a mobile device is still slower than on a laptop. They aim to change that.

Third, this is an obvious statement to Apple and other Smartphone/PDA makers. Google and T-Mobile essentially are in the game, and will leverage the power of Google’s infrastructure to make it stick. The “compass” mode in the Google Maps Streetview is like something from the imaginary.

Finally, features. The G1 looks to offer a few new approaches to well established issues with other mobile devices:

  • Full qwerty keypad, flip style for those who need the tactile sensation
  • All the Google apps you could imagine (Gmail, Maps, Calendar, GTalk)
  • Open source applications and store
  • Amazon Music with DRM-free downloads
  • Less than $200

As an iPhone user, I’m extremely curious about the T-Mobile G1 with Google. I am seriously considering purchasing one to run side-by-side with my iPhone. Regardless, I am even more interested to see what Apple does as a response. Then Google, then Apple. And so on…

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