A clever Google Android coder going by the name of “Brut.all” has released a botched version of Google’s Maps Navigation tool that opens up support for some UK and European roads – sort of. In a fashion.
Android blog Phandroid reports the code to be incomplete, says it has trouble displaying road names and, most laughably of all, issues its turning directions too late when using voice navigation. Can’t wait to give that one a try.
It’s a minor bragging victory for the coder concerned, but also a classic case of why, sometimes, sticking it to THE MAN for the sake of it is pointless. Just wait for Mr Google to get its Navigation tool working properly in Europe. We know you feel like you’re missing out, but putting a broken thing on your phone won’t make you feel any better.
Motorola’s latest flagship dual-core Android monster is a massive, original powerhouse, that’s a big improvement on previous MOTOBLUR mobiles – but still isn’t a total winner.
A slim and glamorous phone from Sony Ericsson, with the sharpest display around. It’s no powerhouse and the screen’s not the biggest out there, but we don’t mind. Because it’s cute.
LG’s first glasses-free 3D phone is a heavy, fat monster, with a clever 3D effect that works rather well. As a smartphone, though, it’s heavy and underwhelming.
A very shiny thing from Sony Ericsson, with a 3.7″ screen and Android 2.3.3 inside. But is it exciting enough to win fans in today’s spec-obsessed market? Can man live on one core alone?
INQ’s Android phone is an interesting “boutique” piece of hardware, packed with unique interface customisations that go far beyond the headline Facebook integration. We like it a lot.
Arnold Frazer
/ December 12, 2009Google Maps makes driving foolproof enough – how dumbed down does life have to be for some folk?