HTC Magic

When T-Mobile released the G1, its first phone to use Google’s Android operating system, it proved enormously popular.

That touch-screen handset was made by HTC, and this new model from the same firm has the same screen but offers an improved look and lighter weight.

It also uses the latest version of Android, with new features and an onscreen keyboard (the Magic has no physical keyboard, unlike the G1). Fortunately the keyboard is very good, though the edges were less responsive – you need to take extra care when typing Ps or pressing the space bar.

Overall, the interface was slick, speedy and responsive. It has neat touches such as the notifications bar which shows incoming email or messages, and lights that flash if a notification is waiting. There’s also a small trackball if you prefer that to the touch-screen.

The Magic is an enticing phone if the iPhone is too big for you. Like that phone it has extra applications available for download over the air, nearly all of which are free. When the phone’s built-in 192MB of memory is full programs must be uninstalled, though they can then be re-installed without paying again.

Music, video and photographs are stored on memory cards. The battery is removable, which was handy as we found it running down after just a day. The camera is a reasonable but not outstanding 3.2-megapixel model, but there’s no flash.

Music fans will be less happy as there’s no standard headphone socket, which is perhaps the Magic’s worst failing.

Still, there’s a lot to like, such as the configurable design of the phone – the home screen is actually three screens wide and you can plonk favourite icons wherever you like, or leave it completely blank for that minimalist look.

And integration with Google Maps and Mail is very useful, although it does mean you’ll need a free Google account to make the most of the phone.