You've gotta hand it to Android. Without a doubt, Google's open source, mobile operating system truly propelled the app-based smartphone into what it is today. Even if the Apple iPhone came first and yes, it has the most cache, Android phones brought something to the table that Apple couldn't choice.
Given its open-source platform, Android gave several hardware manufacturers the opportunity to use the os on their handsets. A variety of wireless carriers could offer those phones-and they did.
Today, you can find hordes of Android phones on each of the major carriers. At the time of this writing, there were more than 20 Android handsets available on Verizon Wireless alone. According to NPD, Android owned 47 percent of the u.s. smartphone market in the last quarter of 2011.
Given its open-source platform, Android gave several hardware manufacturers the opportunity to use the os on their handsets. A variety of wireless carriers could offer those phones-and they did.
Today, you can find hordes of Android phones on each of the major carriers. At the time of this writing, there were more than 20 Android handsets available on Verizon Wireless alone. According to NPD, Android owned 47 percent of the u.s. smartphone market in the last quarter of 2011.
LG Nitro HD
(AT&T)
The LG Nitro HD offers AT&T usersblazing LTE data speeds and scorching dual-core performance, along with an incredible 720p display.
Samsung Galaxy S II Skyrocket SGH-1727
(AT&T)
A true powerhouse, the Skyrocket SGH-1727 serves up blistering LTE data speeds, very fast dual-core performance, and a big, vibrant screen. phones
Samsung Captivate Glide
(AT&T)
This is the best keyboarded smartphone you'll find on AT&T, bar none.
It offers strong, speedy performance, a beautiful screen, and stellar battery life.
Motorola Photon 4G
(Sprint)
The Motorola Photon 4G is Sprint's top-of-the-line phone. Its optional desktop dock transforms the phone into a nettop. The Photon also boasts a high-resolution screen, as well as top-notch music and video players.
Samsung Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch
(Sprint)
Its rich, gorgeous screen and speedy dual-core processor make the Samsung Galaxy S II Epic 4G Touch a top Android choice for Sprint customers.
Samsung Galaxy Nexus
(Verizon Wireless)
The first phone to ship with Android 4.0, or Ice Cream Sandwich, the
Samsung Galaxy Nexus for Verizon has the best software of any Android
phone. It also has excellent 4G LTE speeds.