News has been leaking out over the last few days about the new Motorola Droid phones. They sound amazing, with high-end specs like a 4.3-inch screen, 8-megapixel camera, even HDMI out. Unfortunately, it looks like Moto is also going to be slapping MotoBlur on these phones, and that’s a huge disappointment for me.
It’s not that I think stock Android is the greatest thing since sliced bread. To be honest, it’s far too plain for me. But I fix that with home replacements. I’ve tried several and for now have settled on LauncherPro. It’s simple, it’s customizable, it doesn’t slow my phone down, and it’s free. And if I decide I hate it or want a change, all it takes is a few clicks and I’m on to a new look for my phone.
One of the great things about Android is how individualized it can be. You can put my Droid next to my coworker’s, and not one of the screens is the same. We use different widgets, have our apps organized differently, etc. By starting with plain Android, the homescreen is a blank slate, and it’s up to the individual to make it theirs. It shouldn’t be on the consumer to hunt down a plainer home replacement if they hate MotoBlur or Sense UI, but since manufacturers make it difficult to turn these off, that becomes the only option.
Personally, I don’t think Android is nearly as unusable or ugly in stock form as Windows Mobile was. I understand that Sense UI started with HTC’s Windows phones, and from there other manufacturers attempted to copy it. But to me, it’s not worth having someone layer a skin on top of Android, delaying updates and forcing me into using a home replacement if I want a more clean experience. The only upside to Motorola using MotoBlur on the new Droids, for me, is that it keeps me from lusting after them for now. I’d rather wait for a Nexus 2 or another stock Android device. So thanks for saving me some cash, Motorola!
What’s your take on custom skins versus stock Android versus home replacements? Share your thoughts below!