In an ongoing evaluation of Android OS 2.1 on a Google Nexus One mobile for the past two months, we've found it to be stable and efficient - and seriously impressive when it comes to long battery life, accurate voice recognition text entry, as well as flat out speed when handling demanding apps like Google Maps.
With the upgrade Android 2.1 finally available for the Motorola's Milestone (from Telus)and Droid (from Verizon), which has been running ye olde 2.0 since both otherwise-identical US/Canada models were released, users can expect the same slick features of the Nexus One, such as these:
- + Bluetooth support allowing for voice recognition commands (in French & English);
+ The option to choose from 3 to 9 home screens based on how much room you need for all your widgets and a selection of Animated Wallpaper (additional wallpapers are also available for download on Android Market);
+ Improved security features including remote wipe using Microsoft Exchange;
+ Google Maps updates featuring: personalized location suggestions based on search history, the ability to sync Google Maps on an Android device with maps.google.com, multi-touch features to navigate around maps;
+ Updated Facebook App and Widget that enables contact importation including names, profile photos and status into your phones’ existing contacts, plus a widget that can be placed on the home screen for live updates;
+ Multi-media enhancements that include 3D gallery view as well as MP3 audio playback and camera improvements
+ Improved battery life optimization
Verizon Droid users can get the download OTA (Over The Air), while the Canadian Motorola Milestone owners can visit motorola.com/milestoneupgrade for the free software upgrade and installation instructions. Note: The update will only work via Windows PCs.
