T-Mobile shows off the G1 with Google's Android platform in hopes to take on the iPhone

In the race to keep up with Apple, Google made its first move into the smart phone market with the introduction of T-Mobile’s G1 Phone, during a highly publicized press event this morning in New York.  The G1 is the first phone to adopt Google’s Android operating system, a software platform and operating system for mobile devices and allows developers to write managed code in a Java-like language.

The G1 aims to reflect characteristics and applications similar to the iPhone, and attempts to one up Apple with various features, like the G1’s retractable “qwerty” keypad, which slides out from the base of the phone.  Another element designed to compete head to head with Apple is the Amazon MP3 Music Store application that is specifically tailored for Google Android and sells the songs for cheaper than the Apple iTunes store.

While the G1 is in great position to compete in the smart phone market, it comes with its share of criticisms.  Because of the retractable keyboard, the G1 is heavier and bulkier than the iPhone.  The G1 also lacks the ability to resize objects on its touch screen with a simple pinch or stretch of the fingers, one of the cornerstone features of Apple’s product line.  Another drawback is T-Mobile is just starting up its 3G data service, so it will only be available in 21 US cities.

Unlike Apple, Google has adopted an open platform for Android, encouraging third party developers to create programs for it.  Because of this unique platform, the Android-powered phone is "somewhat future-proof," according to Cole Brodman, T-Mobile USA's chief technology and innovation officer.

The G1 phone will hit US store shelves on October 22nd for $179 with a two-year contract with T-Mobile.  Data plans will range from $25 to $35.  High Tech Computer Corporation (HTC) expects 250,000 to 450,000 G1 phones to be sold by the end of 2008.

Do you think Google Android will have more of an impact on the mobile phone industry as the iPhone?  Will it be as memorable?