When the Nexus One was announced, many folks were questioning Google’s game plan and why it would release such an amazing device shortly after the Motorola DROID’s release. If that wasn’t enough to make some DROID owners envious, the Nexus One received a multitouch update last week which allowed pinch-to-zoom gestures within Google Maps, the Android browser and photo gallery. What could possibly quell all this Nexus One envy?
If getting multitouch for Google Maps wasn’t enough for DROID owners last week, they’ll be thrilled to know that their handsets are going to be graced with Android 2.1 in the future. Best of all, it’s coming with all the bells and whistles that can currently be found only on the Nexus One. Here is a run-down of what’s included according to Engadget:
- It’s based on Android 2.1. The build currently being circulated is identified as 2.1 version 1, mirroring the update just pushed to the Nexus One last week.
- Google Goggles is now pre-installed (no matter how unhelpful it may be).
- The browser’s now multitouch enabled, just like Google Maps 3.4. Huzzah! No Flash, but then again, we weren’t really expecting that.
- Interestingly, the home screen’s still got the same look as 2.0.1, meaning it doesn’t adopt the Nexus One’s rotating 3D grid of app icons — it’s still got the pull-up drawer tab at the bottom.
- No active wallpapers. Bummer!
- The news and weather widgets introduced on the Nexus One are included. Maybe certain capabilities of 2.1 are going to be restricted to devices with minimum performance benchmarks?
Sadly, you’ll have to exercise some patience because there is no time frame for this update’s release. In the meantime, don’t look at your DROID with disdain and resentment. Instead, appreciate it and constantly remind yourself that when the Android 2.1 update comes out, you can one-up the Nexus One by saying, “Well, at least mine has a physical keyboard.”
[via Engadget]
Update: Motorola announced on its Facebook page that the Android 2.1 update will begin rolling out this week! Keep your eyes peeled for the update.