Marcus Hamaker is The Sleepy Geek

In a blog post this morning Google has announced that they are releasing Google Navigation for 11 new countries – Canada being one of them. Well now isn’t that a bit of a game changer. I have a GPS but to have it all in one device; that’s an amazing thing. I have been really excited about the new iPhone, the multitasking, the new camera and all the apps possibilities but now these kinds of things (conveniently being announced now) make me think.

My issue living in Canada is up to date availability. I am pretty much locked in with Rogers. We have to sign contracts to get good deals which sucks. I am used it to it, but it sucks. The iPhone will be available for Rogers but I really wish an Android model newer than version 1.6 would come along. I think Telus has a 2.0 model but it doesn’t help me much.

Given that Google has released this new Maps Navigation feature in Canada if Rogers were to get an Android Froyo version phone I would be VERY tempted to go in that direction. Questions would have to be answered regarding the UI however – you never really know what you’ll find until you have the exact model phone. Most of the vendors that use Android now modify the UI for their own unit.

In the end I just want Rogers to give me that option of having to choose. Right now there is no choice. Even a Blackberry – there are some cool models coming so GET ONE! The only issue is that Maps Navigation is only available on Android units.

Geek on!

This has to be one of the coolest phones out on the market right now. There are parts of me that love the idea of an iPhone but would miss some of the power of my Blackberry Bold. I think that the Droid based on Google’s Android 2 operating system is going to be a killer.

Apple has the stronghold on the market right now, but that’s only because they were there first. Let’s not forget that Nokia still is the largest mobile phone maker and seller worldwide. Apple has just killed in North America and on the smart phone scene.

So Droid eh? Yeah… I think so. Take a look at this video that was posted to Youtube by jon4lakers for http://www.technobuffalo.com: (be warned, it’s about 18 minutes but it’s a great look!)

If you have this phone available to you then you need to get to the dealer’s outlet and have a look. In the US Verizon is the carrier. This has the power and the sleek interface to stand beside the iPhone.

I want one… but alas I am in a contract with Rogers. They no gotta!

Geek on!