Things I Can't Live Without: My Android Phone

My first introduction to the “world of Android” was when I bought an iPod over 15 years ago, with the intention of using it to stream music when I went on long walks.

I soon learned, however, how proprietary Apple was with devices like the iPod. That’s when I decided to switch to a non-Apple MP3 player instead.

This set the stage for the direction I chose to go a few years later, when I bought my first smartphone – an Android. (My last NON-smartphone was a Motorola RAZR flip phone.)

The BlackBerry Bold was my first smartphone. Having physical keys to press (instead of virtual keys on a screen) really appealed to me!

I think it was less than two years later that I upgraded to the BlackBerry Q10, which – to this day – I consider to be the best phone I ever had. (Lack of support from a growing number of companies – like my email provider, Comcast – finally made it necessary to switch.)

The phone I use now is a Samsung Galaxy A71 5G.

Despite the fact that the keyboard is virtual, it's a GREAT phone! I started using this model about a year after it first appeared on the market in spring of 2020. The large screen (6.4" x 2.97") lets me easily see my most frequently used icons on the home screen. The flashlight feature is great, too!

One of the things I like best about the Samsung Galaxy is the screen saver’s large digital clock. Not only is it easy to see the time at a glance, I also know the time is CORRECT … which often wasn’t the case with my watch when the battery ran low (which, of course, happened at the most inconvenient times).

By the way, I no longer wear a watch!

Considering how long I held onto my BlackBerry Q10, you probably won’t be surprised to hear that (so far, at least) I’ve ignored all of the upgrade offers my phone service provider sends me.

I’m holding onto my Samsung Galaxy phone as long as I can!!

Which do YOU favor — Apple or Android?

If you've ever switched from one to the other, why? (Just curious.)