It's been a few months since I've provided an update on the latest Android phones, and already there seems to be more new devices than I can count. Below are a few that seem particularly interesting to me.
How do you choose between all of these devices? Here are a few qualities I would look closely at:
· Size/weight. How mobile is the smartphone really? Some of today's Android phones are getting pretty large, and unless you're planning on watching video or playing games regularly on it, you might prefer something smaller.
· Processing speed. A lot of the latest smartphones sport dual-core processors, which is great for power users. But, the downside is this will typically mean less battery life, plus the device will probably heat up quicker. So you have to weigh the pros and cons.
· Version of Android. Fragmentation is a big issue. Make sure your must-have apps work with the version of Android you're planning to get.
· Carrier. The majority of Android smartphones still only come on one or two carriers, so many users will choose the carrier they want first, and then a smartphone that's available on that network.
Below the slideshow are additional details on each phone.
HTC Thunderbolt
The HTC Thunderbolt is the first smartphone offered on Verizon's new 4G LTE network, so you'll see a big boost in data upload/download speeds if you're in an area where the LTE network is available. One interesting feature is a "Fast Boot" option, which puts the phone in a sleep state rather than shutting off fully. The result is boot times of 9 seconds vs. 58 seconds normally, according to Engadget. One disadvantage is that it only has a single-core processor.
Specs include: Android 2.2 with HTC Sense, 4.3" touch screen, 1GHz Qualcomm processor, 32GB SD, 1400mAh battery, 8 megapixel camera, HD video capture.
The device also has a kickstand, which I think is a cool idea if you want to keep the device out of your pocket and on your desk throughout the day.
Samsung Galaxy S II
At only 8.5mm wide and 116g, the Samsung Galaxy S II is one of the slimmest and lightest smartphones on the market. Samsung is also an innovator with its AMOLED screen, which rings true again with this upgraded model (called, "Super AMOLED Plus"), so expect a superior display. It also has a dual-core processor.
Specs include: Android 2.3, 4.3" touch screen, dual-core 1.2GHz processor, 116g, 16/32GB internal storage, 1650mAh battery, 8 megapixel camera plus 2 megapixel front camera, and HD video.
T-Mobile G2x
The T-Mobile G2x is the first T-Mobile smartphone available with a dual-core processor. Reviewers agree that it is one of the best, if not the best, T-Mobile smartphone currently on the market. Battery life is surprisingly good for a 4G device, especially with a dual-core processor. One of the biggest drawbacks is probably Android 2.2 (Froyo).
Specs include: Android 2.2, 4" touch screen, Tegra 2 1GHz dual-core processor, 142g, 8GB internal storage, 1500mAh battery, 8 megapixel camera plus 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera, HD video.
HTC Sensation
The HTC Sensation will be available this summer. It will be available on T-Mobile's 4G network, and offers a dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor. With HTC Sense 3.0 will come new updates also, such as HTC Watch, a service to download DVD-quality movies and watch them on the phone or output to your TV.
Specs include: Android 2.3 with HTC Sense 3.0, 4.3" touch screen, dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor, 148g, 32GB SD, 1520mAh battery, 8 megapixel camera plus front camera, HD video.
Follow Brian Reinholz on Twitter
Related Reading:
- New Android Phones: Droid X, HTC Evo 4G, Motorola Charm
- Why the Atrix 4G Can't Revolutionize Computing…Yet
- Microsoft: Android Is More Expensive than Windows Phone
