My Cellphone My Terms

Google phone comes to Canada

Nexus One now available to Canadians!

The Nexus One is an impressive cell phone.  It comes with a 1 GHz qualcomm processor, runs on the Android 2.1 platform, has 512 MB of RAM and has a 4GB micro SD card which can be expanded to 32GB….did I say phone or computer? Impressive! Well its now available in Canada as the Nexus one can be purchased online at Google, unlocked for $529 US.

In an effort to by-pass the various restrictions that are placed on new cell phones by the carriers -limiting access to applications, turning off certain functionality, and generally restricting free usage, Google has decided to circumvent the normal alignment with a cell phone company with its launch in Canada and the US by going it alone.

How do I get the Google Phone?

Don’t expect to see this phone in any of the regular cell phone company’s stores or any of the regular distribution channels.  Its ONLY available online at Google.  No carrier has exclusive access to this device, and you won’t find the cell phone on any of main carrier’s websites either.

Which Carrier carries the Nexus One?

While no carrier has it as an exclusive device, what I do know is that the phone originally worked on Rogers and Wind Mobile’s network at launch but subsequent releases by Google now make it compatible with Bell and Telus as well.

The unfortunate part is that because the phone is not available through one of the carriers directly you won’t get discounted pricing on this device – none of the $149 or $199 specials on a 3 year contract. And this is deliberate. Google would like to provide an alternate channel for consumers to get the phone directly without the contracts and restrictions associated with the other channels. While this is noble the price tag is a bit steep at $529 and it remains to be seen what Canadians think about this.

How do I activate?

Given that the phone has been purchased already, you will have to purchase the SIM separately at any of the carriers. I recommend that you get cell phone companies to compete in order get the right cell phone plan.  Your goal will likely be to avoid any contracts or long term commitments, given that you own the phone already, however, in Canada the carriers will charge a premium for the same exact plan if you opt not to have a contract — so just a heads up.

Where do I get support?

You won’t be able to return the Nexus One to your carrier if you have any issues with the device, you will have to go back to Google and work with them to resolve any issues.  Luckily there is a toll free number you can call for technical support (1-888-48-NEXUS (63987)).