Google Nexus One Rivals iPhone

The Google Nexus One phone (HTC), runs the Android system and is packed with features.  Although Google announced earlier this year that it would release this smartphone unlocked, the price, $525 for the unlocked phone has not persuaded customers to purchase.  A two year contract however, makes this phone worth considering in the U.S. (T-Mobile) and now available on Vodafone in Europe.  Among the many cool features, the  location based Apps and Voice Search are  probably the most useful for users who are on the move. 

Since Palm has now been sold to HP, it may well be time to consider other smartphones like the Nexus.  Indeed, it is probably due to Palm's exclusivity with Sprint that hindered market penetration and thus hastened the demise of its independence, so hopefully Google does not fall into the same trap.  However, as the competition continues to march on, there's plenty to consider about the Nexus One, especially when compared to the current iPhone.

- A 5 MP camera with built in flash - a feature hard to find on smartphones. 

- A Media Gallery to view your photos that has the ease of use reminiscent of an iPhone.

- Touchscreen technology with the latest Sense interface that rivals an iPhone or Palm Pre.

- Sync your contacts, Facebook and email accounts with QuickContact.

- Tons of integrated social media applications at a touch, including easy to upload video interface direct to YouTube.  

- The Snapdragon 1GHz processor easily handles the multiple applications and 3D graphics. 

- GPS and Wi-Fi are all included, but what gives  the Nexus One the edge is the Voice Search feature which can be really useful for location based searching.  For example, just say the restaurant name you are looking for and Google will locate it, show  you a map, and turn by turn directions.  

- Google Voice is also highly integrated and the Voice Search feature works with every text feature on this phone i.e converts speech to text. 

- And finally, an  SD card and removable battery are also serious considerations against the iPhone, which has neither.

If you're looking for a really good smartphone, with the size feel and usability of an iPhone, and don't want to pay a premium price, then the Nexus One is a good choice global phone.