Will Android redefine the mobile user experience?

The first Android-based handset hit the market this week when T-Mobile USA released the hotly-anticipated G1--however, insiders are now buzzing about the next wave of Android devices, specifically Motorola's forthcoming mobile social networking-themed phone. BusinessWeek.com reports the Motorola handset will boast an iPhone-like touch screen and a slide-out Qwerty keyboard as well as related features geared to offer more direct mobile access to services like Facebook and MySpace, enabling users to efficiently upload photos, update their status and message with their contacts. While Motorola is already showing spec sheets and images of the handset to its worldwide operator partners, the phone won't arrive at U.S. retailers until the second quarter of 2009--Motorola declined to elaborate on its efforts, releasing a statement noting "We're excited about the innovation possibilities on Android and look forward to delivering great products in partnership with Google."

A social networking phone may seem like a device with a very specialized target demographic in mind, but the niche approach could prove to be Android's calling card. Earlier this week I spoke to John Faith, vice president and general manager of social networking service MySpace Mobile, which released its Android application in tandem with the G1's debut: "We're going to see other Android devices tailored to specific nuances," Faith predicted, adding that Android appeals to a more tech-savvy audience than other smartphone platforms, effectively opening up the possibilities for a more personalized and customized user experience compared to rival operating systems. "Android promises new development opportunities between applications, which creates a richer experience for the end user," Faith said.

And a more differentiated, personalized user experience is essential to galvanizing mobile application uptake according to a recent consumer survey commissioned by global management consulting firm Accenture. Among the 5,047 U.S. adults queried, 88 percent said they've never used their mobile phones to screen video content, with 84 percent never exploiting mobile email services and another 79 percent eschewing mobile games. Consumer spending on electronics devices and applications including mobile phones, personal computers, TVs and the web was highest among the 18-to-34 demographic, with 17 percent spending between $1,500 and $3,000 over the previous year on consumer electronics, compared to only 11 percent of those at least 35 years old. The survey also reports that 73 percent of 18-to-24 year olds use social networking sites, compared to only 7 percent of consumers over 55. Accenture argues that consumer tech firms must better customize their ease of use and design differentiation according to different age groups, envisioning a specific user experience delivered via hardware, software and services. Sounds like the niche Android was created to fill. -Jason