BlackBerry Versus Android

If you find yourself in a similar dilemma as to what I was in, weighing up the pros and cons of BlackBerry versus Android, then read on.
Both BlackBerry and Android have their positives and negative aspects. At the end of the day it merely comes down to what needs you want your phone to fulfill. BlackBerry is likely to appeal you if you fit the corporate sect or place strong emphasis on emailing and text messaging. While the Android phones will generally attract you if you are going to take advantage of the larger screens, rapid web browsing connectivity, apps & multi-media aspects; or just enjoy staying ahead of the curve in the technology world.

As per Neilsen statistics, Android is the clear winner when it comes to most devices sold in the past six months, jumping Android into the number one position at 29% smartphone market share in the US. Second place is tied with Apple's iOS and BlackBerry's RIM operating systems (OS) tied at 27%. This represents a slight drop in market share for RIM from around 30% early this year.

Six reasons you should consider BlackBerry, specifically the Bold and Curve:

1. Strong email/ text messaging functionality partly due to their QWERTY keyboard

2. BlackBerry Enterprise Service (synchronizing your emails, contacts, calendars, tasks, etc.)

3. BlackBerry Messanger (BBM) is a popular instant messenger, unique to RIM

4. Longer battery life is much better

5. Generally more rugged than other handsets, not likely to break if you drop it etc.

6. Strong security features

Six points why you might prefer Android phones:

1. With around 100,000 Apps Android is more 'app centric'

2. Many of the Android devices are making use if 4G connections speeds and have flash web browsing capabilities, hence, gives you the best web browsing experience

3. Android is 'open-source' meaning a large number of companies all working on the code, resulting in a more secure platform (more people reviewing the code); and creativity is encouraged as there is no 'Big Brother effect' monitoring everyone's creativity

4. In contrast to Apple's App store, there is much more freedom for developers to create Android Apps in the manner they wish. For security reasons Android Apps need approval, but there is less of a regulated market allowing uses to dictate what Apps they want

5. Google encourages 'custom ROM', which is your ability to download and tweak to your needs the latest software updates. Giving you more flexibility with your phone.

6. There is a much greater selection of phones available to you as there are a number of companies manufacturing Android phones

There a lot of pros and cons in deciding BlackBerry versus Android. But essentially it comes down to the following:

Are you looking for a cell phone that takes maxim advantage of 4G web browsing speeds, larger screens, a multitude of user prescribed apps, strong multimedia functionality, customization options, and has good business aspects such as email/ calendar/ etc synchronization - get an Android.

Top current Android options are:

HTC EVO Shift 4G (Sprint)

DROID 2 Global by Motorola (Verizon)

T-Mobile myTouch 4G (T-Mobile)
If youare in the corporate mind set looking for a reliable, robust phone that has excellent email and messaging ability, high level security, with strong business synchronization functionality (BES) and arguably the best physical QWERTY keypad - go for the BlackBerry.

My recommendation is:

BlackBerry Bold 9780 (T-Mobile)

BlackBerry Bold 9650 (Sprint)

BlackBerry Bold 9650 (Verizon)