Google introduces Nexus One: What is it really like?

Google has finally launched the much anticipated Nexus One phone that runs the Android operating system.  With Google’s history of market domination, is their entry into the phone market going to follow foot steps of their entry into the search engine market?

An HTC-built phone has a new tweaked and updated Android interface with a great sleek design but is it really the Google product that the world has been waiting for?

Hardware

• 1GHz Snapdragon processor, 512MB RAM, 32GB-capable microSD slot, a 3.7-inch AMOLED capacitive touchscreen display at 800×480, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash and 720×480 video capture @ 20FPS, dual microphones for noise canceling and a trackball.
• Ultra-thin body
• Sleek curved edges
• Unmistakably and HTC device but there are plenty of design cues that scream Google.

Software

• Runs on Android 2.1
• Cool graphics and animated effects. (I only worry that this may hinder performance and speed but I can not tell just yet)
• Voice recognition that lets you speak into almost all fields.  This means you can dictate text and email messages.
• It’s fas. Partly from the Android 2.1 operating system

Battery Life

• Comparable to other similar devices and so far not complaints on battery life

Cost and Payment plans

• Unlocked for $530 or subsidized, with a T-Mobile contract for $180

The feature set seems impressive and the OS has some great applications and features that make Nexus One a good contender.  Would I trade in my iPhone for this device?  I still prefer the full touch screen capability of my iPhone, its sleek design and the 100,000+ applications that virtually let me do anything I can think of on my iPhone.  I am still waiting for “THAT” device that compels me to switch my iPhone ways.