T-Mobile all set to launch the new, improved G2

T-Mobile is ready to roll out its upgraded version of the G1 Google Ion phone. Referred to simply as the G2, this device, no matter which way you look at it, seems to be a great step in the forward direction with time and thought going into the improvement of just about all features.

Look at it and you’ll soon notice how much of excess size has been shorn off with the exclusion of a keyboard. Yes, it is thicker than the Apple iPhone but it measures lesser in width. The dimensions allow it to sit snugly in your hand without feeling you’re holding a weapon. You’ll also notice how much lighter it feels than its predecessor (4.09 oz as opposed to the G1’s 5.60 oz). The face comes with small buttons including a new search key all of which feel easy to find and press. The screen has lost nothing of its brilliance or size, so you can heave a sigh of relief straight off.

Try accessing and launching applications on the phone and you’ll instantly realize what a difference the 512 MB RAM makes. This upgrade from the 288 MB RAM is definitely one you’ll be happy about.

Another inconvenience that has been dealt with in this upgraded version is that of manually switching between landscape and portrait views. The G2 can manage that feat on its own now, thanks to the accelerometer which zooms in and out while changing screen orientation.

The hardware keyboard has been replaced with a software one but reviews state that they are very responsive and rarely ever cause concern. This is especially true when you take your time and go slow while typing. Speed up too much and you’ll find your words running together when the space key fails to recognize your fast movements. Predictive text and words add to the convenience of using the G2.

Since the case is slimmer, the 1150mAh battery pack of the G1 has been replaced with a 1340 mAh which reportedly adds up to 50 minutes of talk time to the G2 as compared to the G1. No changes in the camera department either which functions adequately without being outstanding.

One annoying feature that hasn’t as yet been dealt with is the lack of a 3.5mm Earphone jack. Using one involves the use of an adapter. Also, this upgraded version continues to use the same old Android 1.5 OS.