Which Smartphone Operating System Suits Your Best?

Originally posted March 2, 2010
As we make our way into 2010, consumers seem to be moving more and more into the Smartphone category for their wireless devices. But with so many to choose from, how does one decide which is the best for their communication needs?

What Is Android?

Android is a mobile operating system that has since been adopted by Google and can be found on phones such as the HTC Dream and HTC Magic. It works on an open development platform that allows developers to create applications that are extremely rich and innovative, to suit all user needs.

Why Android?

• Only Android helps you keep track of your life by displaying email and message notifications at the top of every screen. One touch takes you immediately to the information that's most important to you.
• Drag and drop your favourite widgets, applications, photos and folders onto your home screen for quick access to what you use all the time. Customize the phone for you!
• The Android platform allows multiple applications to run at the same time so you never miss a beat. Switch between applications seamlessly without having to go through a ‘home' screen.
• If you surf the web and send lots of emails, then the large touch screens and QWERTY keyboards available on the Android devices, such as the HTC Dream and the new Samsung Galaxy Spica, are for you.
• Android seamlessly integrates you favourite Google apps so they work better together for the best Google experience. Every Android device comes with your favourite Google apps built-in.

What is Mac for iPhone?

Most people automatically associate the Mac operating system with the Apple notebook brand that has been popular in the market for a while now. However, in recent years, the makers at Apple have introduced their operating system onto one of the most popular Smartphones to date - the iPhone. A platform that allows users to customize their phone by way of installing Apps through the Apple Store, the iPhone has become the ultimate in communication devices - a portable phone, iPod, computer, and video player.

Why Mac for iPhone?

• The operating system takes up less than 500MB of the device's memory, so there is plenty of storage for your music, movies and applications, especially with 8GB, 16GB and 32GB models of the iPhone.
• The home screen contains all available applications and allows the user to pin five specific icons to a bar at the bottom of the page for quick access to items used most.
• Multi-touch interface allows the user to make a call simply by tapping a name or number in the contacts, favourites list, call list, or anywhere else for that matter.
• Applications work together seamlessly and then sync with your computer - whether you are on a Mac or a PC.
• The accelerometer embedded on the iPhone allows the device to be tilted, turned and rotated to impact game play, and give the user the full experience of what this device is capable of doing.

What is RIM for BlackBerry?

BlackBerry was the first Smartphone operating system to take the stage, and has since visited numerous upgrades in an attempt to remain top of its game. The RIM operating system is very different to the other options on the market, which helps RIM stand out on its own, but in recent months, there have been additions to align items such as Applications with devices such as the iPhone and the Android phones.

Why RIM for BlackBerry?

• This OS is much simpler than others, keeping email viewing and browsing as clean as possible, reducing downloading times and also data usage as a result.
• The RIM OS fully synchronizes with Microsoft Outlook for real time updates, information and push email.
• The RIM OS functions seamlessly through server options such as BlackBerry Enterprise Server, created specifically for multiple users within a corporation.
• The BlackBerry App Store now provides many different applications for BlackBerry users looking for similiar options to the iPhone and Android devices

What is Symbian?

This is an operating system purchased and used by Nokia for devices such as the E71, focusing on providing the underlying routines and services for application software. This operating system delivers touch screen technology and an advanced software development environment for media-rich applications.

Why Symbian for Nokia?

• Wide selection of applications available for a range of mobile phones
• Implements industry standard protocols, interfaces and management services for IT integration
• Extensive connectivity options
• Ability to set two profiles for the user - one for professional and one for personal
• Ability to access multiple email addresses on one device
• Remote locking option available for peace of mind