With all the buzz about Google's Android OS nowadays, anticipation for HTC's follow up to the G1 handset is completely understandable. At MWC 2009, all eyes were on the company as they debuted the Android G2, dubbed the HTC Magic.
Look, Ma, No Keypad
HTC went for the form factor in this one, stripping out the keypad in exchange for a noticeably slimmer device that seriously makes the G1 appear like an unappetizing slab of brick. Rounded edges and a narrow body, coupled with what is turning out to be a trademark chin (designed to allow the trackball to protrude better), makes the HTC Magic a serious looker. Other features of the soon-to-be-much-sought-after handset include a 3.2 inch touchscreen display, an accelerometer, 3.2 megapixel camera and a digital compass.
Users can store their wares on 192 MB of onboard storage, expandable with microSD cards up to 16 GB. It's got built-in GPS and comes bundled with Gmail, Google Maps and Street View. Connectivity options include a mini-USB, Bluetooth and 3G. Media addicts, as usual, can enjoy a variety of music files but only MP4 and 3GP video get supported.
Versus The iPhone
The inevitable comparison, of course, arises. According to first-hand accounts, the HTC Magic is thicker than Apple's much-lauded mobile phone although the narrower frame makes them feel somewhat the same size. Much will likely be made about HTC's in-house developed virtual keyboard on the device and many of them not so good. Typing reportedly feels cramped, with the keyboard oddly situated to the side of the screen, instead of at the bottom. There's still time for a change, right HTC?
HTC will release the Android-powered Magic in Europe first. Vodafone has the exclusive distribution for the UK, Germany and Spain, SFR will be the carrier in France and it will be available non-exclusively in Italy. No word on either pricing or an exact release date.
Photo Credit: Gizmodo
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