Well it’s been quite a while since I threw out a fun gadget but I just couldn’t miss this one.  Last winter I wrote a post called “Game Changers” in which I described how the new generation of smartphones will change the rules.  Well, I must say this fall has definitely seen a lot of movement in that arena.  New Blackberries, new iPhone, new Windows Mobiles, the resurrection of Palm, and the explosion of Android.  If you have been following my posts on Twitter or on my Facebook page you’ll know that I am pretty excited about the launch of the Motorola DROID.  Well… that launch is today.  The much awaited, very hyped Droid is hitting the streets as I write.

Image via Boy Genius Report

What’s the big deal?

Well… that is a great question.

1. One of the big dogs (Google) has finally released a phone that is expected to fulfill the “prophesies”.  For a long time the Android mobile operating system has been being proclaimed as the next wonder of the world but hasn’t really delivered.  Well, the Droid comes with the next (highly-upgraded) version of Android.

2. Second, Motorola (makers of the Razr) has had some very high profile flops recently.  Many were saying that they were done in the mobile phone/smartphone market.  So, apparently they took note.  They apparently decided to really go all out on this one.  Just take a look at the current specs.  Also based on early reviews I would have to say that they’ve silenced some of their critics.

3. The all-powerful Verizon FINALLY has a competitive smartphone.  Oh sure… the Pre will probably be released early 2010 but it’s not new anymore.  Verizon has been very slow to the game in the smartphone arena.  None of their phones really took the market by storm… until the DROID.

Too much hype?

Time will tell.  Based on what I’ve seen so far… No.  This phone is going to rapidly become a major player in the game.  It is going to put Android on very solid footing.  It’s still slightly immature from initial reports… but just get it out there and people will starting tweaking it.

iPhone Killer

No… No… and No.  The iPhone has it’s niche.  Let’s face it… it’s a cool phone.  It also has a big weakness… AT&T.  That said the smartphone market is so large and immature that Blackberry, iPhone, Pre, and 10 Androids can be very successful without really affecting the other.  I would say for these phones… it depends on your needs.

Bring on the Droid

I say welcome to the new kid on the block.  Push the limits.  Force innovation.  Create demand.  This market truly needs to step it up.  Want to see more?

Motorola Droid Hands on [Boy Genius Report]

Motorola Droid Site

Verizon’s Droid Site

So… now what’s your opinion?  Will the DROID live up to the hype?  Is the Pre a better solution?  Let’s hear it.