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In the raw

Google is kicking ass in the mobile technology sector with its Android operating system steadily becoming the de facto platform for mobile phones and tablets. Android devices are available from LG, Samsung, Motorola, HTC and dozens of other manufacturers entitled to modify and customise the system with their own interfaces and other software. However, Google does provide a raw Android experience via its Nexus range of devices – and we like the crude experience of the system more than the other guys have managed to deliver.

The original Nexus phone was manufactured by HTC. Now Google has partnered with Samsung for the second generation – the Nexus S. The device is similar to Samsung’s Galaxy S in many ways, but with fundamental differences. For one, the Nexus S has none of Samsung’s customisations and software. It also has a better camera and incorporates near field communication (NFC) technology that’s making its way into the market. For example, Gauteng’s Gautrain terminals are in principle compatible with NFC – meaning you could, in theory, use your cellphone for ticketing instead of carrying a card. NFC chips are also being used in marketing and can be embedded in T-shirts, posters and just about anything else.

The Nexus S runs the latest version of Android for mobile phones: version 2.3 or “Gingerbread”. The new version supports powerful processing and has some useful new features, such as built-in support for SIP calling, meaning users can integrate FNB Connect and other voice-over IP telephony services without requiring third party software.

Gingerbread is also testament to Google’s mounting competitiveness against Facebook: the system won’t allow you to integrate your Facebook address book with Android’s, as previous versions could.

In the war with Apple, Google is making strong progress but still requires more from developers. For example, Skype for Android doesn’t yet support video calling, whereas the iPhone version does. Though Apple’s platform still gets more love from application developers that’s rapidly changing as Android becomes the dominant smartphone platform.

Pity there are no paid-for apps in the South African version of the Android Marketplace yet. That’s something Google needs to fix – and soon. But apps aside, the Nexus S is a remarkable device and competently rivals the iPhone 4 in just about every way. The Nexus S isn’t yet available in SA but will soon be offered by Vodacom.

Review

VERDICT: The new Google phone is a powerful statement.

COMPLEXITY: Not quite as friendly as iOS.

PRICE: TBC (expect around R5 000).

ALSO CONSIDER: Apple iPhone 4.

VALUE RATING: 8/10
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