HTC Droid Eris

If you are wanting a smartphone with the Android operating system, but you don't want to pay anything when you get your new contract, or upgrade your plan, check out the HTC Droid Eris. Available for free after for Verizon customers (for new or upgraded plans) - the Eris runs a very close second to the very popular, and slightly more expensive Motorola DROID.

The first thing you'll notice about the Eris is the brilliant display. The 3.2-inch HVGA capacitive touch screen grabs your eye and holds it. Text is incredibly easy to read and pictures seem to come to life on the 320x480-pixel resolution screen. You'll also notice how light yet solid it feels. It weighs only 4.23 ounces and is .51 in thick - so it travels easily in your pocket.

In terms of features, the Droid Eris offers Bluetooth, Verizon visual voice mail, voice dialing, a calendar, a calculator, an alarm clock,, a calendar, a speakerphone an alarm clock, Wi-Fi, PC syncing, USB mass storage, and a voice recorder. You'll also have access to Google applications like YouTube, Google Calendar, Google search (with voice), and Google Talk.

The Android OS, with its familiar desktop PC look, eases the learning curve for those new to the smartphone arena. The HTC Droid Eris, provides an affordable way to step into that arena