Under the Hood: Android-Based HTC Droid Eris

by Nicholas Kolakowski

The Droid Eris box heavily promotes the Google Android operating system, as opposed to the devices form factor or mechanical features.

The Droid Eris features a 3.2-inch capacitive touch screen and trackball interface. It weighs 4.23 ounces, feeling light in the hand, and measures 4.4 inches tall by 2.19 inches wide by 0.51 inches deep.

The back of the device contains an integrated 5.0-megapixel camera with auto-focus.

The Droid Eris’ boot screen features the cartoon Android robots doing a dance.

The Google Android operating systems opening screen allows instant access to messages, phone, browser and camera; tapping the button in the lower-left opens another screen with icons for Gmail, games and other applications.

Along with the Motorola Droid, the Droid Eris is intended as Verizons answer to the iPhone, which runs exclusively (at least for now) on AT&Ts network.

Users can snap photos with the Droid Eris by pressing down on the trackball.

The devices mobile browser is responsive, loading pages quickly; new URLs or e-mails can be typed using a virtual keypad. Unlike the Motorola Droid, the Droid Eris does not have a physical QWERTY keyboard.

The device can dial contacts by name, number or initials.

The Droid Eris does not sync with iTunes (unlike the iPhone and, sometimes, the Palm Pre), but it does allow users to access and download music through Amazon.com.

The device features productivity apps such as Calendar, as well as the ability to perform lightweight document edits.

Users with Google accounts can sync their Gmail and other applications with the device.

Integrated GPS and digital compass make for easier navigation via Google Maps.

Users with Gmail accounts can receive a mobile version of their e-mail.

The Droid Eris’ default game, Teeter, asks you to tilt the device to maneuver a little silver ball past obstacles and into a small green hole. It is enormously difficult after Level Seven.

The device offers 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as Bluetooth.

Google Android provides local weather and temperature, helpful before heading out from a windowless office.

Mobile applications can be downloaded from the Android Marketplace, which offers a collection of games and productivity apps.