Within a couple weeks of each other, Apple slashed the prices on the swanky new iPhones, and the Palm Pre was released. Last summer I couldn't justify spending the money on an iPhone contract, so I went with the Touch, which I love. But my work has recently cracked down on "acceptable use" of Internet/personal email use, and combined with a crazy summer of running around, I feel like I can better justify having a smartphone. Plus, I'd love to be able to twitter and get directions from my cell phone.* It's funny that a year-and-a-half ago, going on the internet on my phone just wasn't a priority!
Why not stick with the Touch? The Wi-fi-only internet access, no camera, and no Flash(=no Hulu.com) pose problems for checking email anywhere. And OK, an iPhone would be gadget overload, but they are so slick and easy to use. The Palm Pre has a lot going for it: GPS, music player, replaceable battery, touch screen, and of course phone, camera, and internet. The "real" keyboard is also a plus. Having played with the Palm Pre briefly, it seems easy enough to get used to, but strange/new coming from using the iPod Touch. Both plans include "everything minutes" and navigation (*which Verizon doesn't). [Photo Credit: Corinne Schulze/cnet.com]
The main reason why I'm holding off is we really need to refi our place, and I don't want to screw up my credit with something as seemingly frivolous as a smartphone. Also the whole 1st generation bugs still might need to be worked out. If I do get a smartphone, I also will have a hard time waiting for it to arrive! Nothing like a little high-priced instant gratification.
