[darren]

That's always been my issue with the whole open-source movement. Sure, a lot of the software is powerful and innovative, but it's a clusterfuck when it comes to a consistent user experience.

 

[darren]

Why are the phones different? Because they pander to the carriers, who all want something "exclusive".

This is why RIM was making BlackBerrys with different plastics and unique default themes back in the day... not because it made good business sense, but because the carriers all wanted exclusive hardware.

 

[darren]

True, things are shifting a little now. Apple was successful in turning the tables on the carriers (or at least on AT&T), and now RIM – and to a lesser degree, Motorola, HTC and Samsung – are getting a little more brave with pushing back and doing what makes sense for them and for end users, not for the carriers.

 

[darren]

I had a good look at the Galaxy S the other day, and was very impressed with it. The screen was fantastic. Even though i'm not very familiar with Android, i still found myself wanting a stock Android interface, which i've seen enough screen shots of to have some recognition of features that weren't there in the Samsung UI.

One thing i didn't like about it was that the whole case was plastic. Sure, it makes for a lighter phone, but all that glossy black plastic is gonna look like shit in no time.

I kinda wish the Motorola Milestone (the international version of the Droid) were available on my carrier.