Google/HTC Nexus One

Into Droid Hardware

The Nexus One, a significant device in the history of Android smartphones, was the first in Google’s Nexus line. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nexus One:

Overview:

Launched in 2010, the Nexus One was Google’s first attempt to provide a pure Android experience, free from manufacturer customizations and carrier bloatware. Manufactured by HTC, the Nexus One was designed to set a standard for Android devices and offer a benchmark experience for other manufacturers.

Features:

  • Operating System: Initially shipped with Android 2.1 Eclair, later upgradeable to 2.2 Froyo and 2.3 Gingerbread.
  • Display: 3.7-inch AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels.
  • Processor: Qualcomm QSD8250 Snapdragon S1.
  • Memory: 512 MB RAM with 512 MB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 32 GB.
  • Camera: 5 MP rear camera with LED flash and autofocus.
  • Battery: 1400 mAh removable battery.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, Bluetooth 2.1, and GPS.
  • Other Features: Trackball navigation, noise cancellation with a dedicated microphone, and voice commands.

Pros:

  • Pure Android Experience: The Nexus One provided a stock Android experience, which was a fresh departure from other devices that often had heavy manufacturer skins.
  • Timely Updates: Being a Google device, the Nexus One was among the first to receive Android updates.
  • Build Quality: The device had a solid feel with a mix of metal and soft-touch materials, reflecting HTC’s reputation for quality construction.
  • Display: The AMOLED screen was vibrant, offering deep blacks and good contrast.

Cons:

  • Limited Internal Storage: With only 512 MB of internal storage, users had to rely on microSD cards for additional space.
  • Battery Life: The battery life was average and could be a concern for heavy users.
  • Lack of Multi-touch: Initially, the device lacked multi-touch capabilities in some apps, though this was later addressed in updates.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2010, the smartphone landscape was rapidly changing. The Nexus One faced competition from:

  • iPhone 3GS: Apple’s offering with its smooth iOS experience and App Store ecosystem.
  • HTC Desire: Essentially a sibling to the Nexus One, it had similar specs but featured HTC’s Sense UI.
  • Motorola Droid: A popular Android device with a slide-out keyboard and Verizon’s marketing muscle behind it.

Launch Date:

The Nexus One was announced in January 2010 and released shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Touchscreen Issues: Some users reported issues with the touchscreen being unresponsive or erratic.
  • 3G Connectivity: There were reports of inconsistent 3G connectivity on some carriers.
  • Sales Model: Google initially tried selling the Nexus One directly to consumers through an online web store, bypassing carriers. This approach wasn’t very successful, leading to a change in strategy for future Nexus devices.

Conclusion:

The Nexus One was a foundational device for Google and Android. It set the stage for the Nexus series, which would continue to offer pure Android experiences and receive timely updates. While the Nexus One had its challenges, especially in terms of sales strategy, it represented Google’s vision for Android and showcased the platform’s potential. The legacy of the Nexus One can be seen in the subsequent Nexus devices and the current Pixel line, emphasizing Google’s commitment to a cohesive and benchmark Android experience.