I had to do a write up for a tech article, so I'm just gonna post that here. Its basically how I feel about android at the moment.
It was in reply to thiis:
http://www.wired.com/business/2012/09/reviews-column-saving-android/
I understand that there needs to be a choice in the marketplace and that Apple’s way of doing things shouldn’t be the rule for everyone to follow. However, Google has made it so any OEM could manipulate what they created. These manipulations usually end up slowing down the phone and not providing the great features that Google puts out. I was in the exact position as the author. After my iPhone 3GS broke, I tried out the competition. I bought a Windows Phone and then I tried out an Android phone. I went out of my way to try and find the purest Android experience on my carrier (A T-Mobile G2X). Even though it was running “stock”, it was still loaded with carrier bloat ware that I didn’t want and couldn’t remove without “rooting”. I also wasn’t able to be up to date in the operating system because of carrier restrictions. Eventually I ended up going back to the iPhone. Even though the OS might be a little stale, I know that my experience will be up to date and be in line with everyone else’s. I also knew that I would only have apps that Apple created and have an app store where I could buy whatever else I needed.
This isn’t all Google’s fault. I know that they have their own Nexus line. The thing is, carriers are usually one of the obstacles that they have to face in order to get their product into customer’s hands. For example, the Galaxy Nexus came out around the same time as Motorolla’s Droid Razr. Since Verizon had spent a significant amount of money getting the “Droid” name out to the public, they decided to put the Galaxy Nexus on the backburner and promote the Razr. The Razr also features apps built by Verizon.
It seems like a bad thing to say but having too much freedom is a burden on the customers. I believe Google should have a stricter process with their OS (Like Microsoft and Windows Phone 7). Unfortunately, it seems like politics has a play in how we as consumer’s receive information about products. I’ll suggest two things: I urge you to do your research before buying your next smartphone. Find out how compatible it is with future updates since you’re likely stuck with it until your next contract. I’ll also suggest for Google to push their Nexus line of phones a lot more aggressively. If the carriers won’t cooperate, send your message out to consumers. Let them know that these Nexus phones are what Google intended.
This has become an increasing problem for OEMs. Both Google and Microsoft have started dipping their toes into the hardware game. This may be from Apple’s influence but honestly I’m tired of having half-baked experiences from hardware companies that have no business making software.
Hopefully this shockwave into the marketplace will make OEMs do a better job with their phones.