[...] is trying to break into the United States smartphone market so we will keep an eye to see how they handle the process. The Pulse features similar specs (CPU [...]

[...] already sells non-Android Huawei phones (like the Tap) in their stores today. Huawei is hoping to bring Android phones to the U.S. and this could be an opportunity for them. Huawei U8800 HSPA+ Android [...]

Was there any suggestion they’re planning to release an Android 2.0 update for their device? They need to do that quickly if they wish to compete with the likes of HTC/Motorola/etc. Cupcake is way too old already.

The Pulse, though relatively unknown, seems to be a great success herre in Europe. Basically, it has the standard Android configuration, with a 528 MHz Qualcomm CPU and 256 MB RAM like the HTC Magic and HTC Hero. It also has a large 3.5″ capacitive screen, and apparently has decent build quality. But it’s sold at a lower price over here than the HTC Tattoo (it’s around 220 euros). At one point, it sold for 91 pounds unlocked – that’s 145 dollars with added British taxes and no plan whatsoever for a fully capable smartphone. Huawei can offer some fantastic value for money.

I’m most interested in your comment that you look down on custom UI’s. Why? I’m still using a 2 year old SE candybart, but I want to get an Android phone. I am hyped by the Nexus, but a friend of mine who has the Hero was trying to convince me that the Sense UI gives that much of an improved experience that I’d be better off with the Hero, even though it’s built on an outdated processor.

When you say you look down on custom UI’s, is this because you think it’s bad for the user, or for the Android system as a whole?

On a related theme, do you think that a stock Android device like the Nexus, will receive OS updates in the future quicker than those with custom UI’s, even if bought through a network (like Vodafone in the UK)?