During the launch of HTC Magic in Singapore, CNET Asia actually asked this question onto the relationship of HTC Magic and Dream with Google. The question actually started with a question on the Microsoft Exchange Sync seen on Magic and not on Dream.
Some may wonder why Microsoft Exchange support is so important. To many people (like me) who receive emails via Microsoft Exchange, the one big important reason for not using Google Android is because it does not have the software to synchronize with a Microsoft Exchange Server.
So, what is the difference between HTC Dream (G1) and Magic?
During the launch, I am glad that CNET clarify this with HTC top executives. According to them, Dream is a joint effort with HTC and Google. Therefore, the phone will have a Google logo on it.
Whereas for HTC Magic, it is solely by HTC and therefore, there is no Google logo on it.
So, regarding the matter on Microsoft Exchange Sync on Magic, it is from HTC. Correct me if I am wrong, even the latest Cupcake (Android 1.5) will not have this software. On HTC website, this is an added feature of HTC Magic.
Choose Your Connections
Take your inbox or inboxes with you wherever you go. HTC Magic makes it worry-free with easy account set up, multiple mailbox support and Microsoft® Exchange Server synchronization for email, calendar and contacts. Simply put, with HTC Magic, you can always keep your personal and office emails flowing.
Click Here to Go To HTC Magic Website
However, accordingt to Engadget, the mobile phone carrier has the decision to let Google be part of HTC Magic. That means it might not have the Exchange Sync software incorporated in it to comply with Google standard.
Here are some answers from both Google and HTC, thanks to CNET for asking.
A Google representative issued this statement in response to our question about native Exchange support:
“Android does not currently include support for Microsoft Exchange. This remains a ripe opportunity for 3rd parties, as the Android Open Source project, supported by Android Market, provides developers complete freedom to extend Android and enable a wide range of connected mobile services. We are beginning to see initiatives and products from the community designed to target the mobile enterprise market. We believe our approach of openness, both at the platform level and for application distribution, will drive rapid innovation and availability of consumer and enterprise solutions on Android.”
From HTC, USA.
“The Vodafone version of Magic has “with Google” on the back, like the G1. This simple phrase indicates that the phone has a pure Google experience – no customizations have been made to the software. The Magic being sold in most of Asia is not a “Google experience” phone so we are able to add HTC-specific software into Android. That version of Magic has Exchange support, plus a more full featured camera application, a custom dialer application with smart dial and additional widgets as well.”
Here, in Singapore, Magic is definitely sold with the software and I am glad that HTC listens to the people.
So, if you have to consider an Android phone, you will also need to decide what you need. HTC will have a better contacts integration, a Smart Dialer, Microsoft Exchange Sync for Magic, HTC Dream has a keyboard and Samsung i7500 has a 3.5mm earphone jack. These are the strong selling point for these phones.
Click Here to Read CNET Report on it.
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