Droid Bionic arrives, reviews from around the web
(CBS) - After several delays, Motorola's Droid Bionic hits the market and the critics agree it was worth the wait.
The smartphone that boasts a dual-core processor and Verizon's 4G network is on sale today for $299 with a two-year contract with Verizon Wireless, which starts at about $69 monthly.
We're not surprised that early reviews are mostly positive, although fans and critics alike were becoming impatient with nine months of delays.
Running on a modified version of Android, the Droid Bionics's operating system is truly unique. Not to mention, this is the first smart phone to ever have a dual-core processor.
Engadget is optimistic
"Performance on the phone seems exceptional so far, but we'll withhold full judgment until we've run our suite of tests," editor-in-chief Tim Stevens said.
Washington Post thinks Bionic could take on the iPhone
"Compared with many of the devices on the market, the Bionic stands out in both look and feel, as well as solidness of construction. It just comes off as a nice, expensive phone - even comparing favorably when matched up with the iPhone 4," said blogger Joshua Topolsky.
CNET gives high praises
Although the tech site's full review points out a few concerns, they give mostly positive feedback. Senior associate editor Nicole Lee said, "It's sleek, fast, and powerful, with features that will please both consumers and business users - if you're willing to pay the high price."
Popular Science has a few doubts
This morning a magazine staffer tweeted, "Reactions to Motorola Droid Bionic: Definitely the sleekest 4G phone we've used, and Moto's keyboard is awesome, but man, that screen." The tweeter went on to describe the phone's display as "grainy and blurry at once."
Overall, the reviews are pretty impressive. The market seems to be reacting well. Several bloggers posted that Amazon was selling the Droid Bionic for $199, however they are currently backordered.
Amazon's deal might not be the only relief for bargain hunters. According to PC Magazine's sources, "if you're willing to wait until September 13, Coscto is offering the device for $279.99 with hundreds of dollars worth of free accessories thrown in."
The Droid Bionic is now available at Verizon Wireless retail stores or online.