Piper analyst Gene Munster has recently indicated that Apple should fear not over the recent launch of the T-Mobile G1 powered by Google’s Android.
In a recent report Munster noted that the release of the G1 is merely a progressional change in the mobile market stating that “when Apple comes out with a product, they try to hit homeruns, but Google’s Android strategy is swinging for base hits,” further adding that the Android platform “will have little or no impact on near-term iPhone sales.”
While the iPhone has had a leg up over Android with its significant head start, the open-source platform may contribute to the addition of a wider range of carriers. Additionally the G1 touts a physical keyboard, a feature that many prefer over the iPhone’s touch based keyboard.
Munster also adds that Android may soon offer developers more freedom to distribute applications. One area of recent discussion has been if developers are allowed to integrate with the newly formed Amazon MP3 music store and player, we could be seeing some very unique and innovative applications in the near future.
The G1 is at a significant disadvantage for business users, as it lacks support for Microsoft Exchange. This could potentially hinder sales to this demographic, while Apple has made an exceptional effort to attract these users.
Overall, Munster maintains that both Apple and Google are at the head of the mobility game, making it difficult to pick one true winner. He does insist, however, that the G1 will not have an adverse affect on iPhone sales and has kept a buy rating on Apple stock throughout it all.
[via CultOfMac]
One Comment to “Gene Munster: G1 Will Not Hinder iPhone Sales”
I have a question… What happens to all your data if you lose the G1 ? What happens to all the money you’ve spent on content? Where is that information stored? Who has it? Where is it?
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