Vodafone Australia has released Google's first branded mobile phone today, the Nexus One (which, naturally, runs Google's Android operating system).A spokesman told NBR that Vodafone NZ is looking at the handset, but no details on a possible release
Vodafone Australia has released Google's first branded mobile phone today, the Nexus One (which, naturally, runs Google's Android operating system).
A spokesman told NBR that Vodafone NZ is looking at the handset, but no details on a possible release were immediately to hand.
The Nexus One, which features a 3.7-inch (that is, larger than iPhone) touchscreen, is similar in specs to HTC's Desire (no coincidence, as HTC also makes the Nexus One for Google under an OEM contract).
The Nexus One caused controversy when it was first released in the US due to search giant's policy - since relaxed - of only letting people by it through a Google website.
In Australia, Vodafone is the Nexus One's exclusive carrier.
The handset costs $0 up front, but buyers must sign on to a $A79 cap on a 24month contract with a minimum total cost of $A1896.
Whether to goose early sales or as a reflection of a genuine stock issue, Vodafone Australia sales its supply of Nexus Ones is "strictly limited".
Living the Nexus loca
Although the Nexus One is not officially available in New Zealand, some Android fans have brought handsets back from the US.
One, Diversity Ltd principle Ben Kepes, told NBR earlier today, ""I live my life in Google - using gmail, docs, calendar and other Google products.
"As such a device [like my Nexus One] that is built from the ground-up as a Google interface is a no brainer.
"I'm not swayed by the Apple fanboys, my Android device gives me the experience and usability of an iPhone without all of the feeling of being locked down to what Apple deems acceptable."
