During the Keynote session of Google I/O yesterday, the execs announced an impressive collection of Google and Android-run software. While many were surely disappointed with the complete lack of mention of Google Glass, a Nexus 7 tablet, or Key Lime Pie OS, Google put forth a stock Android version of the highly-publicized Samsung Galaxy S4 for T-Mobile and AT&T for a June 26 release date. But don’t get too excited because like most things in life, it’s far from free.
VP of Android Hugo Barra offered up a taste of what the Galaxy S4 would feature and even with a scarcity of information, the handset looks stellar. The Galaxy S4 will run on stock Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, will support LTE connectivity, will offer 16GB of internal storage, will boast an unlocked bootloader, and will automatically receive and implement system updates.
Even without touching upon simple yet glaring details like battery life and other capabilities, the Googleized smartphone, which is essentially a Nexus, will be more than capable. The only downside, an uncharacteristically steep one from Google I might add, is the price which would make even Warren Buffet cringe. This sock Android GS4 can be yours for the unrealistic price of $649.
I would imagine the price will be reduced somewhat on a contracted price by T-Mobile and AT&T but until then I have to wonder, WTF Google? I mean, what was all that jazz with the Nexus 7 being a bajillion times cheaper than the competing iPad? And now your latest smartphone, which, by the way, simply looks like a Galaxy S4 without the Samsung UI at this point, is priced exactly the same as an uncontracted iPhone 5 with the same amount of storage?
Impressive phone or not, I’m feeling a little cheated by this phone. But perhaps the search engine giant will silence me in the coming weeks with some more dazzling details. Until then, let’s open up the floor to you readers. Do you think this stock Android Gs4 is worth closing out your savings account for? Or are you absolutely willing to trade in your iPhone 5 for it?
