Considering Android, few questions from an iPhone user

[anon(692098)]

Ok, been using an iPhone since the original and I'm currently on an iPhone 4 (not S) with AT&T. I'm eligible for upgrade and I'm going to stay with AT&T. So the questions...

I've been doing nothing but reading reviews of various phones and I'm pretty set on a Samsung Galaxy S II based on it having a better processor and longer battery life vs. the Skyrocket. I live in flyover country (Des Moines, Ia) we have no 4G/LTE and won't for quite a while and I've read the that the Skyrocket is pretty hard on battery.

So to make sure that I'm not going to be upset switching I borrowed a Motorola Xoom tablet that has ICS installed and then went to the Android Market. With my iP4 side by side I started finding the apps that I consider must have and was able to find the same apps either for free or paid -- I didn't buy anything yet just happy to know there available.

Ok a few Q's. Is the GS2 a good choice, should I be looking at something else offered by AT&T? I spent some time with it last night and enjoyed TouchWiz and the screen is amazing! Having said that am I foolish to not get the Skyrocket or something else? Also ICS is coming to the GS2 yes?

Apps: I'm sure the answer is no but... Paid apps on the iPhone, does anyone offer the ability to switch platforms or would I need to repurchase?

Navigation: I bought Navigon which I really like and if need be will buy again on Android but before spending money, is Google's turn by turn viable? My biggest use case is riding my motorcycle and using my phone as my GPS, Navigon is excellent at this, how is Google?

Other 'switchers', was it worth it? I don't have a ton of accessories so I'm not loosing out there, I'm just bored with the iPhone and I think this could be a fun change up.

 

[GNex Girl]

VZW has 4G LTE in Des Moines and right now they have double the data 4GB for $30 and BOGOF Razr Maxx if you have a family plan.

 

[anon(692098)]

I'm not leaving AT&T but thanks.

 

[NotJustAPhone]

The Google turn-by-turn navigation works great. I rarely use my standalone GPS unit anymore (last time I used it was for a drive through the desert where I couldn't rely on a cell signal).

I'm not very familiar with AT&T's Android devices, but if you're considering the Skyrocket keep in mind that you should be able to turn off the LTE radio and run it in GSM and HSPA modes. Without the power hungry LTE radio running, battery life should be much better on the Skyrocket. Although you you don't have LTE in your area you may find that you prefer the features of that phone over the Galaxy SII.

I use both Android and iOS and if I could only have one phone, I would choose my Galaxy Nexus.

Sent using Tapatalk

 

[DrDiff]

Android and ios/Apple are Polar opposites. Nothing will transfer over. You will have to repay for any paid app.

The only thing you will find that carries over is the carrier in your case AT&T.

 

[bioniceyes]

I switched from a first gen iPhone on AT&T to a Galaxy Nexus on VZN in late Dec. The main diference between the platforms for me was finding a good messaging app and podcast listening app. I finally found SMS Popup and PoPocket Casts, and I'll never go back. If you want a good SIRI alternative, try Vlingo. Have fun!

 

[dd0yl3]

I think the SGSII is probably the best choice, not unless you like something like the note that AT&T just got. There is really no point of getting the skyrocket if you don't have 4G in area yet or anytime soon. HSPA is fast enough on a phone anyways. It is supposed to get ICS sandwich and if you are interesting in rooting you could have it sooner. In my personal opinion the Google apps is what makes Android better than Iphone. The navigation is great, gmail integration is terrific and Google voice all work better on an android. My wife just switch from a droid x to the Iphone 4s and really misses that part. With all the customization that can be done without even rooting you'll love it. Have fun