Ten areas where Google's Android could make waves vs. Apple's iPhone

Apple's i(Hesus)Phone is a fantastic and groundbreaking device. But, as much as I hate to say it isn't perfect and has its share of shortcomings. It hasn't really mattered too much because no Windows Mobile, Blackberry, Palm or Symbian phone has come close in terms of usability and features. Google's Android OS, which is set to be announced on Tuesday, has the backing of the Google behemoth and has generated much buzz in the press. Will it have usability and features to match the iPhone? Perhaps, perhaps not. Google's OS and the hardware manufactures have yet to release any reliable specs.

Here are some openings in which Google's Android phones could win over some potential customers from Apple:

1. Instant messaging addicts. iPhone's IM capabilities are suspiciously weak. Third party products like IM+ and others fill this gap to an extent but I still had a better client on my Tmobile sidekick three years ago. Apple's late release of Push Notification may help some of these apps behave in a way that is more like a desktop client (running in the background). My current favorite is Fring which I used on my jailbroken 1.1.4 iPhone with great success. If Google can get a Fring-type of application on the Android, the Android will be a superior IM phone, hands down. Also audio/video chatting and VoIP could be more robust.

2. Video recording - You can jailbreak your iPhone and use Cycorder which is really easy and straightforward - but for people who are hesitant to do this, you are currently stuck. Chances are Google will allow you to record video out of the box. Google might even let you do broadcasting which you can do with a jailbroken iPhone using Qik but doesn't appear to be within Apple's crosshairs.

I recorded the birth of my son on an iPhone using Qik video and broadcast it live to friends and family.  What a great experience.  Apple won't let you have this unless you choose to jailbreak your iPhone.  Google will.

3. Camera - a better camera that comes close to a point and click. Apple's two megapixel camera is good for phone pictures but phones like Nokia's N96 have been significantly better than iPhone for a long time - and even have a small (sometimes ineffective) flash. If Google throws in a 4 megapixel camera, it might make a difference for some people.

4. Carrier Choice - If you want T-mobile over AT&T for instance, Android's the way to go. You might even be able to buy an unlocked version and put other SIM cards in it - which saves a lot of money when roaming. With iPhone 3G, you are with the carrier you bought it with. For some, this is reason enough to go with the Android.

5. A physical keyboard will always be better than a virtual one for some. If this is you, Android beats iPhone in this department.

6. You are a Linux loving tinkerer. The Linux-based Android OS will be infinitely more flexible for those hard core geeks who want to mess with the way their phones act. The level of access Google will give you is still unknown, but the source of Android will be available for your perusal.

7. Stereo Bluetooth. This is one of those things that Apple could flick on at any moment. The iPhone hardware already supports it. Apple has so far neglected to do so. Some think that A2DP drains the power too quickly. Also, syncing over Bluetooth would be nice.

8. SMS Multimedia Messaging. For me this isn't an issue. I think SMS is just a way for phone companies to squeeze a few more bucks out of consumers. This functionality can largely be replicated with email or (hopefully soon) with IM. However, even though its days are numbered, many people still love to use SMS for sending pictures. If this is you, you might be a Google Android candidate.

Google Android demo

9. Flash/Java support. Android probably won't support these technologies out of the box but it has a much higher likelihood of supporting them in the long run...I think. If you need these two technologies, an iPhone might not be right for you.

10. There are those who don't like Apple's closed ecosystem - and there are valid points to be made. Google's product is based on an open source model which allows more transparency into the workings of the system. Most people also agree that Google will be much more open to what goes into the device as well. There will be more choice in Email application, web browser, etc. You also aren't locked to the iTunes ecosystem. The Android may be a stand-alone device. This will probably lead to wider adoption by more companies. Will the quality of those applcations be better than iPhone? It remains to be seen.

Having written the list, I kind of feel like I was writing a "You might be a redneck if.." Jeff Foxworthy joke. "You might be an Android customer."

But in all seriousness, there are many valid reasons to consider the Android over the iPhone. I am just curious about the tech as a gadget guy...does that count?