Tech Wrap: September 26

 T-Mobile’s G1: Google Android
The Google Android kicked off its new cell phone-based operating system with T-Mobile’s G1.  The first of its kind, the G1 is the first cell phone to be operating Android.  You could say that this is Google’s first test run to consumers.  The G1 is a smart phone that offers both touch screen and a full keyboard that slides out.  It runs on the 3G network for faster browsing and downloading/uploading.  I won’t go as far as to say that this is the iPhone killer, but it definitely has the potential to compete head to head with Apple. It resembles the iPhone in many respects with features like the app store and the touted accelerometer. 

However, what makes the G1 standout from its competitors are the extra features it added: like the full physical keyboard, the expansion slot, Google Map’s Street View, and the most important feature, the free open source operating system.  Unlike Apple, the open source operating system is free of charge and has no limitations or restrictions. 

The G1 does have some limitations though, it doesn’t allow you to sync your phone to a computer; instead, you can only sync information and contacts through Gmail.  It also fails to deliver the 3G network connectivity; currently T-Mobile’s 3G network is only supported in 19 cities.  Even with these limitations the Google Android OS could easily be a winner, especially with the open source development by third party developers.  Look out Apple and Microsoft.

WowWee’s Rovio
Rovio is the newest robotic invention made by WowWee.  Known for their popular toy robots like the Alive Cubs or the Robosapien, the Rovio is more than a toy—it’s a tool. 

Rovio is a robotic webcam on wheels.  With a sleek and unique design the Rovio is very appealing to the eye, but its functions are quite unique.  Equipped with WI-FI technology the Rovio can be used from anywhere in the world through most web enabled devices (i.e. computers, Smartphone’s, and even game consoles)  With the built-in digital camera the Rovio broadcasts live video and sound of what it hears and sees.  You can even set way points for the Rovio to patrol with the TrueTrack Room Beacons, and it comes with a rechargeable battery that mounts itself to a recharging dock station. 

Priced at $299.99 this robot on three wheels could be used as a security device or capture your roommate’s most embarrassing moments.  Rovio is now available for preorders. 

I hope you enjoyed this week’s tech wrap.  Look out for more articles by yours truly.  Out.

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Comments

Why is it we always have to wait for the next cell phone to get what we want? Can't someone just make a phone that has "it all"? Is it really that hard?

Zuul, it's called capitalism. We live in a dog eat dog world. At least technology is always evolving for our benefit until skynet takes over.

needs evolve, desires never die, competition helps drive techonology to the next level....