HTC Magic vs O2 XDA Guide

A new review has looked at the many features of the HTC Magic – a Google Android-powered device that is exclusive to the Vodafone network in the UK – while another has considered the latest from O2’s XDA range.

Wi-Fi Planet contributor and technology specialist Gerry Blackwell was charged with the task of considering the benefits of the latter device, stating it could be the latest phone to take on the might of the iPhone 3G S.

He explained although HTC was just another manufacturer looking to take Apple’s popularity crown, the Magic was a gadget that was equipped with enough features to give it a good go.

Mr Blackwell added the lack of applications and facilities that the iPhone 3G offers was something that would inevitably let the Android handset down, but this did not mean it was not a serious rival to Apple’s touchscreen model.

“In terms of features and usability, the new HTC Magic and Dream phones do give Apple a good run for its money. But in terms of cool factor and availability of applications, they can’t really compete yet,” he concluded.

Elsewhere, Trusted Reviews looked at the O2 XDA Guide and said it was a phone that aimed to double up as a mobile that offers an in-car satellite navigation solution.

The site explained that the HTC built model had formerly been known as the Touch Cruise and was equipped with stylish good looks, a mechanical scroll wheel, 528 MHz processor, microSD card support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a 2.8-inch screen.