Android 2.2 is by far the most significant Android update yet. It does not put their brand in front of Apple’s but it does position them to become the beast that overcomes the Apple monster of the 21st century. It does, however, make the average user intrigued by what will become of the Google Android.

Looking back in retrospect, the Android did start off a little slow. The new iPhone had just been released and the appeal for the Android was not there yet in terms of the consumer. As we know, Google never quits and has been working tirelessly to get this budding flower to blossom. Because of this we have seen three notable releases in the past six months.

While the older versions of the device were deemed rough and bulky, the new 2.2 is a sleek, evolved version of its predecessor. The 2.2 is completely customizable and allows device makers to take the source code and make it their own. They have improved the navigation and have added a Google powered search box that indexes the options on your phone. It has become much more user friendly and even includes automatic Web and app suggestions.



Multi-touch is another addition to the Google Android that was taken from the Apple-owned “pinch zoom”. Even though there is speculation regarding the relationship between the two as being auspicious for Google seeing that Google’s CEO Eric Schmidt once held a seat with Apple Corporation. In correlation with the multi-touch is the advanced graphics support that exists on the Android via the OpenGL ES2.0. This technology allows phones like the Droid to run games that are similar to that of the iPhone and PSP.

Even though at the moment Apple is still king, it would appear there is finally a running mate and that is the Google Android. Still a long way off from the third party support Apple is getting, Google is making rapid strides in the application department with an estimated 45,000 premium and free apps. Android 2.2 not only speaks to the average user, but it also appeals to the developers because new syncing APIs allow programmers to create apps that link to various contact sources.  

No matter how you slice it, the Android 2.2 has set the tone for what mobile smart phones will have in terms of capacity. Not to take anything away from Apple because they are the pioneers, however, it would appear there is a new deputy in town looking to take on the sheriff and that deputy’s name is Google.