How Does Android Stack Up Against Windows Mobile?

The Android OS has been lurking in the shadows for some time, and even after the SDK was released, the project still seemed to be somewhat of a mystery. The lurking will end as soon as T-Mobile starts shipping its new G1 (probably by the time this gets to print). It's already listed on their Web site for pre-order (t-mobile.com/shop/phones), but the Google-based phone has not grabbed the limelight—yet. How does this mobile Johnny-come-lately stack up against Windows Mobile? Let's take a look under the hood and see if Microsoft should be concerned. 


After the success of the iPhone and the newer Windows Mobile devices with enhanced "touch" interfaces, it's clear that users want touch screen devices that allow easy access and control without a stylus. Tasks like Web browsing or checking e-mail, for example, should not involve painful hunting through menus and using vertical/horizontal scrollbars. It's obvious that the Android OS was built with ease-of-use in mind. 


Much like the iPhone, the G1 focuses on a solid set of mobile features, which include a Web browser, maps, messaging, etc. In addition, HTC (the manufacturer of the G1) has packed in a decent range of features, including a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, trackball control, 3.2 megapixel camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and 3G data connection. But in the end, the OS and user interface will probably be the defining difference. 


Based on what I've seen, the crisp, large, and easy-to-use screens will appeal to users who don't want to spend a lot of time getting to know their phones. In addition, I expect that third-party developers will jump on board to provide enhancements to the Google-based widgets and services, like Gmail, Google Chat, and Google maps.  

Attractive, uncluttered home screen 


A bad home screen can be a deal-breaker with any device. Fortunately, the Android's home screen is uncluttered, with attractive Google-oriented icons and widget shortcuts. Like both iPhone and WM touch devices, a status bar with network status icons extends across the top of the screen. Drag the status bar down to review the latest status alerts. For example, incoming messages will appear in the status bar, and you can reply right in the same expanded "mini-blind" window.

 Icons and shortcuts can be placed or moved on the home display as desired. The main application-launcher menu can be made to pop up by tapping on the up arrow icon at the bottom of the screen. A hardware button on the G1 is also assigned to this function.

Android's home screen is uncluttered and easy to use.

An extended desktop is available by dragging the home screen to the right, much like iPhone or the iPod touch. UI replacements for Windows Mobile devices, available from third-party developers, do much the same thing, but changing the home screen is infinitely simpler in Android. Just "long press" on the home screen wallpaper and a menu will appear to let you add widgets, shortcuts, or customize the home screen in other ways.