Department of Good Ideas

Rumors are still flying about Google’s phone. Is there really one? This sure is a crowded space - Goog - do you think you should focus a little? My search results aren’t getting any better …. What is the niche for Google’s phone? Google requested to the FCC to require the winning bidder for old TV airwaves create a network unlocked for use (no locked phone and no locked services).  The idea is a very interesting market changer.   Is Google trying to help us wireless junkies?   No, this is just part of their monopoly play.  They can’t let the big CellCo’s dictate which phones and services you can access.  That leaves the CellCo’s between the users and Google.   That’s bad for Google.   However, if this neutral networks is created I can see a big new niche opening - open airwaves and maybe a GPhone with an open OS on the phone.  That’s a new world indeed.

I have played with the iPhone. It has big cool factor and I was pretty happy with the ability to type on it. That was one of my biggest worries - no tactile feedback. But I’m a business users and that phone just doesn’t fit the bill on email use. I really don’t need to surf photo’s and Youtube on my phone. I used to complain about having too many devices but now my iPod is so unobtrusive and tiny, it’s not a factor. I joke with my friends, if they really want to integrate music on their phone to just tape their Nano on the pack of their Treo.   And there is that stupid AT&T lockin.  Wait for another generation and see.

Frankly, the best answer out there is the T-Mobile HotSpot @ Home with a Blackberry Curve this month. Free Wi-Fi calls from my house or office (that’s 80% of my calling) and the great email and keyboard of the Curve. Super! Still have to tape my iPod on the back…