These are exciting times if you’re a fan of the Android operating system and love to get the best out of it on one of the many smartphones that currently run it. With a new version of the OS soon to be released in the shape of the Ice Cream Sandwich update, then it looks like we’ll be able to get even more productivity out of our Android-powered handsets.
What’s more, even though Apple has just unveiled its new 4S phone, there are actually some new Android models that make more than viable alternatives to consider if you’re not a fan or can’t afford the former.
What to buy?
Perhaps one of the most tantalising new Android handsets due for release in November is the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, which is something of a super phone when it comes to bang up to date features. There’s a 1.2GHz dual core processor, 1GB of RAM, a Super Amoled HD 720p display and five-megapixel camera. Not only that, it will also be the first Android handset to come running the new Ice Cream Sandwich OS.
However, another new model comes from the Motorola stable in the shape of the RAZR and this super thin smartphone is also an Android running powerhouse. There’s a 1.2GHz dual core processor, 1GB of RAM and an eight-megapixel camera that also delivers a flash and 1080p video recording. Adding to the overall appeal of this tasty handset is the MotoCast software that comes with it and allows users to stream media from their PC directly to the phone using 3G or Wi-Fi.
Many smartphones also suffer from loss of battery and need regular recharges; so another new option on the RAZR is likely to prove popular. The Smart Actions area of the smartphone allows you to customise settings so that essential battery life can be preserved, while there are also a whole set of other handy tool options that make this device stand out from the crowd.
Another option
Of course, many high end smartphones come with a high end price tag too, but keep an eye out for the Android powered HTC Explorer, which is likely to be keenly priced but still offer up all of the usability of the Gingerbread OS from Google. It’s no slouch in the performance stakes either, with a 3.2-inch HVGA touchscreen, 3.2-megapixel-auto focus camera, 600MHz processor plus all of the usual connectivity options that you get with an Android device.
However, HTC already has an enviable reputation when it comes to releasing new phones so you can rest assured that this model, and many others in the pipeline will also benefit from the added power and functionality of the Ice Cream Sandwich OS update that should emerge shortly too. And, even if you can’t quite afford to upgrade to a new handset at the moment, then perhaps an installation of the new update might be all it takes to give your existing phone a new lease of life.
By all accounts the OS comes with a fantastic mew array of interface options and tools built in. If the previous track record of the Android operating system is anything to go by then that could mean exciting times lie ahead for anyone who prefers to steer well clear of anything from the Apple camp.