G1 Roadmap Reveals a Virtual Keyboard
The T-Mobile G1 will be getting a on screen keyboard like the Apple iPhone. Coming in the first quarter of 2009, the virtual keyboard will allow for textual entry without opening the flip-out keyboard. While many users like a ‘real’ keyboard, the introduction of a virtual keyboard will make a nice optional way of entering data when needed.
The coming feature is outlined on the Android Project roadmap found here. This will make the G1 even more competitive against the iPhone as it will have two keyboard options whereas the iPhone only has the software based keyboard.
According to the roadmap, the input method engine which supports soft keyboards will also support ‘a dictionary of suggestions, and a suggestion algorithm’.
Android Market offers up video player for Google's G1
How to get a video on the phone. Plug the phone in via USB and browse the phones memory. Create a ‘videos’ folder and drop your *.mp4 files into the directory you just created. Now, open the video player and your video files should show by default. Simply click the file you want to play and enjoy the show. The player will not work while plugged in via USB so make sure you disconnect the phone first before attempting to view the videos.
Note too, the video player actually takes advantage of the phones accelerometer. Tilt the phone 90 degrees for a larger view. From my tests, I liked the first generation video application. I really liked the fact this it took advantage of the accelerometer. I hope that more file formats can be supported in the future.
Namco's Pac-man on the G1
Numerous applications appeared on the Android market in the past few hours. These include Namco’s Pac-Man and T-Mobiles Hotspot Locator. G1 users for a time will be able to download all applications in the market for free. In the future, Google plans to implement features that allow for commercial applications that will cost money.
The ever popular Pac-Man was featured during the late September press conference introducing T-Mobiles G1 with Google. The game can be controlled via the touch screen, trackball or even using the accelerometer by tilting the screen as needed.
Applications are being added to the market on a daily basis, so be sure to check regularly for exciting new apps that will further empower you and the functionality of your phone.
Google unveiled its challenge to the iPhone, the G1, which runs the company’s new proprietary Android software. Maggie Rodriguez talks with Daniel Sieberg about its features and flaws.
T-Mobile G1 with Google
For those who preordered the G1 and are anticipating receiving the phone within the coming few days, you can track your shipment even if you don’t have a tracking number! How?
Visit this UPS page here and enter your phone number in the ‘Shipment Reference’ field. Make sure to enter the number with dashes… 800-765-4321 and skip everything else. Now you can track the shipment and know exactly when you will receive your coveted G1. This, obviously, will only work if your phone has already entered the UPS system.
There are many reports of users receiving their phones prior to the official Oct 22 launch date. We tip our hats to T-Mobile for shaving a few days off our anticipation. Now go track that shipment!
