iPhone vs Blackberry

Well, having read my previous posts, you’ll probably not be surprised that I never got into the whole iProduct

fad. I never owned an iPod nor ever wanted to. I find it funny how everyone thinks Apple invented the mp3 device, when that credit actually goes to the Rio. They were the mp3 device when the concept of digital music was new.

I do give Apple credit for making digital music commercially viable. Although there methodology is heavy handed, they did get the music industry to embrace the technology even if it was done with a lot of skepticism (on the music industry’s part) that lingers even today.

When the iPhone was introduced, Apple thought they were doing the same for the cell phone industry that they did for mp3 players. But two factors have prevented them from fulfilling that goal.

First the cell phone industry is already diverse with many players and many products. Unlike the mp3 industry at the time the iPod was introduced. The wireless industry is already mature with they’re own players and fan favorites. People know what features they want and expect. So, if the iPhone is missing them, it is noticed.

The second factor is greed. Yep, Apple’s greed finally caught up with them. They signed exclusive deals with specific carriers around the world in order to squeeze out the money. Even devotees are balking at this because of service problems brought about because of network overload. That plus their stranglehold on the software, makes it hard to personalize. Thankfully, the courts have stated that it is legal for people to “jailbreak” or alter their devices. This is a great victory for the average person.

This is not to say that the iPhone has not been successful. One cannot deny the marketing machine that Apple controls besides the legion of Apple Kool Aid drinkers that buy anything Apple. They may have tons of apps but when it comes down to the basics, the phone lacks some key features that the Blackberry blows them away.

Form Factor

When it comes to cell phones, my true love is the flip phone. I grew up on Star Trek and can’t help but imagine myself as Captain Kirk, flipping open the communicator saying, “Beam me up Scotty!” So my move to a candy bar form, was traumatic for me when I got my first Blackberry. However, the Blackberry wins on form because it has a tactile keyboard. I’m sorry, I’ve had Palm Pilots and Windows Mobile devices and was very good at graffiti. But, as soon as I had a full QWERTY keyboard on my mobile, I was happy. I have big fingers, I need the feel of the keys to know what I’m tapping. Even then I often make mistakes. So, since the iPhone lacks a keyboard, there’s one strike against it.

Functionality

Next is functionality. I will admit that the iPhone had a sexy interface. Dragging your finger across the screen, reminds me of my days with a Palm PDA. I do find the Blackberry a little clunky at times and wish that they would combine a touch screen to the unit however, I have no issues with the trackball in the middle. I have not tried the new touch pad design yet and I admit to being skeptical but, I’m sure it will be OK. I like the ability to create folders although I wish it were easier to remove some of the bloatware that the carriers add. Some of these apps, my only option is to hide the app since removing it may interfere with other functions. So, in this category I’m going to give a slight lead to the iPhone since in terms of ease of use and even video quality I have to admit they have a lead.

Applications

As far as applications go, they both have tons of them. You can find an app for virtually anything you want to do with either the iPhone or the Blackberry. However, iPhone looses this category because of their stranglehold on creativity and forcing all applications to go through their website. Yes, you can jailbreak the device, however it is my opinion that you should not have to void your warranty just to add some application that you want.

Network

This category is an easy win for Blackberry. Even iPhone advocates complain about the overloaded network. The funny thing is my Blackberry is on the same network as the iPhone and I have no troubles and I don’t need a silicone jacket to make sure my antenna is clear. Maybe it’s not the network it’s the hardware. But. Also the ability to select your network gives this round decively to Blackberry.

Overall

The Blackberry wins over the iPhone. In terms of functionality, they are really equal however, iPhone’s control over the device makes it less fun to use than the Blackberry. They both make phone calls, they both play music, take photos, send messages, surf the web and much more. However, I don’t like to be tethered to only one source for my software. So, Game, set and match to Blackberry.

Next time on the blog, let’s talk about Long Island Life. Our local mayor is building a ferry terminal for commuters. Is that a good idea? Stay Tuned!

Apple vs Microsoft

Let me start off by admitting that I do not drink the Apple Kool Aid, I find the taste to be quite bitter. I began my computer career with Microsoft products. I have always found their architecture to be more open and inviting for the hobbyist. Through events and generous giveaways to the academic field, I always had all the legitimate Microsoft software and support that I wanted. Apple, on the other hand, has always had a snobbish attitude. Sort of, “We know what’s best for you kid. Just hand over your computer and we’ll fix it for you for a fee.” They never like to admit mistakes and write off their failures as if they never happened (Apple TV, The Newton, etc.) They got lucky with the iPod and have been reliving that suceess for the past 10 years.One day an iPod killer will appear in the market, it may not be made by Microsoft, but everyone will realize that Emperor Jobs is not wearing any clothes.

I admit Microsoft products have flaws, however once they are discovered, workaroundws and fixes are quickly made available. In fact, thanks to the design of Widnows, it is easy for the average person to get behind the scenes and make the fix. But, why is Microsoft seemingly plagued by flaws? In my opinion it ois because they try to be the OS for everyone. They try to accompdate a wider range of applications, programming languages, hardware, software and peripherals. Unlike Apple’s monopolistic practices, Microsoft does not seek to control the whole environment. Anyone can build, sell and distribute Windows compatible software or hardware. While one can pay to have their creation certified by Microsoft, this is not required.

However, Apple keeps tight control on anything that one wants to sell for their products. Is that a good thing? Maybe as far as avoiding computer problems. However, didn’t all the government entities get after Microsoft for trying to exercise such control? Why was Microsoft persecuted while Apple gets a free pass? I’m sure that it has to do with the fact that to this day, 95% of all desktops are Windows based and Microsoft has deeper pockets and that’s what the lawyers went after.

I mean look at all the controversy about the Apple Store. If you purchase an iProduct, all your content needs to be approved by and bought through Apple’s portal. Doesn’t that just scream of the giant corporation crushing individual inspiration? I enjoy the recent story about the 15year old who outsmarted Apple by creating a tethering program for the iPod (something disallowed by the TOS). It got past the Apple censors by labeling it as a flashlight application. Once they realized the deception, Apple quickly shut the program down. Talk about killing innovation.

Many Apple Devotees point at PC Enthusiasts and talk about “Apple Envy.” For some reason they think that the rest of the world is envious of their gadget. That we want to make our PC’s look like a Mac. If anything I find the opposite to be true. Afterall, it is the Apple world that created Parallels, a program to allow Apples to run Windows. Envious of a closed platform, of a system where the hardware is still owned by the manufacturer and I am only leasing it’s use? No thanks, I’m very happy to be a PC.

Next controversy that I tackle will be Blackberry vs iPhone.