Michael Geist has an article about the recent lawsuit Bell launched against Rogers after Rogers aired an ad critical of Bell’s internet speed claims.  We have all seen the Bell and Rogers ads that tout their advantages over the other for their various services (better/faster/cheaper/more HD/more channels/less equipment/easier to set up/more reliable…).  

This particular issue deals with internet connection speeds and the “up to…” promises of speed.

I get that these two companies are fighting hard for the same customers –  but I suspect consumers are getting more jaded rather than enlightened or convinced by the ads.

That’s the title of my Slaw post for today.   It reads as follows:

The big tech news yesterday was Apple’s preview of the new iPhone 3.0 software that is available now for developers, and this summer as a free upgrade for iPhone users.

The Apple mystique and reality distortion field continue despite Steve Jobs’ absence from the podium. There is no question that the iPhone sets the bar for smartphones, even though many of the new features announced yesterday are already available on other phones.

Details can be found on almost any tech site – but given Slaw’s audience, take a look at iPhone J.D.’s article entitled Why lawyers will love iPhone Software 3.0. The first iPhone was not deemed worthy for business use, but that is no longer the case. I’ve always tried to resist joining the Apple cult – basing my choices on logic and price – but it is quite tempting to give into the dark side with iPhone 3.0.

Microsoft was ahead of the game a couple of years ago, but is now playing catch up – working on Windows Mobile 6.5, and 7. RIM is certainly in the game with its Bold and Storm. Then there is the Google Android OS, and Palm’s Pre.

Personally, I’m in a conundrum. The term on my Windows Mobile smartphone is up in May, and I “need” to upgrade to 3G and something more cutting edge. Perhaps I’ll wait and see what comes out this summer. There is some speculation that there will be new iPhone hardware to go along with the release of 3.0. HTC is supposed to release a new Touch Pro 2 in Q2 which I believe either ships with WM 6.5, or will be upgradeable to 6.5.

If anyone at Rogers is listening – please get the HTC Touch Pro 2 as soon as it is available – not months after the rest of the world, and provide the OS updates just as quickly.

The iPhone is available in Canada this week.  Michael Geist’s article on the unique Canadian issues is worth a read, especially in light of the rumours that Apple has shorted Canadian supply due to Canadian pricing issues, and the tens of thousands of people who signed up in protest of the rates.

It will be interesting to see to what extent these issues will dampen demand for the iPhone, and reduce their ongoing use for cost reasons.

Read Michael’s article