Now, say you are in need of caffeine. Speak "Starbucks." This is when the magic begins. Although Google will execute the same search, looking through your emails and contacts, it also searches the Internet. The search results will indicate the nearest Starbucks to your GPS coordinates — and then give you the option of calling or getting directions: via Google Maps — visual or by voice, just like a stand-alone GPS device. And this is without subscribing to Verizon’s Navigator service. Just for fun, I asked for directions home from a shopping trip, and as it guided me into my driveway, it showed me a photo of my house (very cool, if not a bit “big brother”).
Email and Calendar: You must have a Gmail account to use the Droid. I had one before I bought the phone, so it certainly wasn’t an issue for me. I have three other email accounts as well, but they are all forwarded to my Gmail account. The Droid directly connects with Gmail, so mail downloads instantaneously (it appears on my phone even before appearing in my desktop email program). The phone also directly connects with Google Calendar, so my appointments automatically sync with my phone — no cables, connections or setups. The calendar and email are both home screen icons on the phone, so there’s no need to go into the browser for access.
Apps: I would guess the Droid app store isn’t quite as extensive as Apple’s, at least not yet. However, it’s pretty good. For me, the essentials include: Pandora, Google Night Sky (I love star gazing), and an “App Killer” because you can run lots and lots of programs simultaneously, which can slow the thing down if there are too many running. The “App Killer” will shut off any unwanted applications. I’ve run eight or nine applications at a time with no appreciable slowdown, which is not the case with other smartphones I've used, including the Blackberry (at least in my experience). There are also some fun games that make specific use of the Droid’s accelerometer, much like similar games for the Touch (like a real-time maze that works by tilting the device to and fro).
Article comments
1 - Orange450
Thank you! This is very helpful for me, since my Verizon account is currently insisting that I get a new phone ASAP, in order to waive the early-cancellation fee my son incurred on my plan, when he switched from Verizon to ATT to be on the same plan as his wife.....
Well, it's complicated. But you did the legwork for me, so thanks :)
2 - Donna
Hi Barbara-
I just bought an iPod Touch last week and while I love it, almost immediately wished it was an iPhone. Since I'm a Verizon customer I was hoping for the day in the not too distant future where Apple and Verizon would finally partner up and sell/support the iPhone. Reading your review of the Droid has me thinking now that this partnership may never happen. As you, I truly have fallen in love w/the Touch and all the touch has to offer but it's missing the phone, an integrated microphone and yeah, even a camera. Sounds as if the Droid will be just another device I want to seriously consider vs the iPhone (yes, I like tech devices too even though I'm not that into the more involved geeky stuff). I also prefer Verizon as a provider.
Well thanks for this review and happy holidays!.
BTW, what's doin' w/your Touch. Still using it?
P.S. Love your beautiful dreidel collection (great resolution from the Droid camera!).
3 - barbara barnett
Donna--My Touch has been gathering dust since I got the Droid. I've been able to get my apps on the Droid. My mail, etc. The droid has both wi-fi and 3G. I have plenty of music with Pandora and my mp3 collection.
4 - Val
Barbara,
Great review! I've been thinking that someday I will replace my reg cell phone with a smartphone, and didn't know which to get...considered a Blackberry for the "real" keyboard (I really dislike those touch keyboards), but liked the Droid for it's Google connection. When the day comes I think I'll go Droid!
I've seen there is a House game available for my touch and i phone...wonder if it would work on a Droid ;)