has just published their list of the top 10 gadgets of 2009, and sitting in first place is the Motorola Droid, with the Apple iPhone 3GS in fourth place, losing out to the Barnes & Noble Nook, and James Dysons Air Multiplyer Fan.
It looks like TIME really liked the Motorola Droid, check out what they had to say about it below.
The Droid is a hefty beast, a metal behemoth without the gloss and finish of the iPhone, but you don’t miss it. The Droid’s touchscreen is phenomenally sharp and vivid, it has an actual physical (not great, but good enough) keyboard, and best of all, the Droid is on Verizon’s best-of-breed 3G network. It’s Android’s first credible challenge to the iPhone.
Why the Motorola Droid Stood Out
The Motorola Droid’s success can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, its robust build quality and industrial design set it apart from the more polished and sleek iPhone. While some users might prefer the iPhone’s aesthetics, the Droid’s ruggedness appealed to those looking for a more durable device. The physical keyboard, although not perfect, provided an alternative to the touchscreen keyboard, catering to users who preferred tactile feedback.
Moreover, the Droid’s display was a significant selling point. The sharp and vivid touchscreen made for an excellent user experience, whether browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games. The device’s integration with Verizon’s 3G network also played a crucial role. At the time, Verizon’s network was considered superior to AT&T’s, which was the exclusive carrier for the iPhone in the United States. This network advantage gave the Droid a competitive edge in terms of connectivity and reliability.
The iPhone 3GS: A Solid Contender
The Apple iPhone 3GS, despite being in fourth place, was still a formidable gadget in 2009. The 3GS was an incremental upgrade from the iPhone 3G, featuring a faster processor, improved graphics, and a video camera. These enhancements made the 3GS a more powerful and versatile device compared to its predecessor. However, the lack of groundbreaking new features might have contributed to its lower ranking compared to the Droid.
The iPhone 3GS continued to benefit from Apple’s robust ecosystem, including the App Store, which offered a vast array of applications and games. The seamless integration with other Apple products and services also made the 3GS a popular choice among consumers. Despite not being the top gadget of the year, the iPhone 3GS maintained a strong presence in the market and continued to influence the smartphone industry.
Other Notable Gadgets of 2009
In addition to the Motorola Droid and the Apple iPhone 3GS, the Barnes & Noble Nook and James Dyson’s Air Multiplier Fan were also recognized in TIME’s list. The Nook, an e-reader, stood out for its innovative dual-screen design, combining an E Ink display for reading with a color touchscreen for navigation. This unique feature set it apart from other e-readers on the market, such as the Amazon Kindle.
James Dyson’s Air Multiplier Fan was another noteworthy gadget. Unlike traditional fans, the Air Multiplier used bladeless technology to create a smooth and uninterrupted airflow. This innovative design not only made the fan safer but also more efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Dyson’s commitment to engineering excellence and innovation was evident in this product, earning it a spot on the list.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward to future gadget rankings, it will be interesting to see how the competition evolves. With rapid advancements in technology, new contenders are constantly emerging, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The rivalry between Android and iPhone continues to shape the smartphone landscape, with each platform striving to offer the best user experience.
For those interested in a deeper comparison between Android and iPhone, check out our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
via Slash Gear
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