Welcome to Canada Android!

The wait is finally over for web-savvy consumers, the Android phone has arrived in Canada!

Rogers Wireless unveiled two Android powered phones today, the HTC Dream and HTC Magic. Both come fully integrated with Google services such as Google Search, Maps, Gmail and YouTube.

So How Will The Android Change Local Search?

There are two main features in the Android phones that are going to change the way Google Maps are used:

1. Google Latitude

Unlike current phones with Google Maps which allow you to search for businesses or get directions, the Android takes the process a huge step further by utilizing Google Latitude. Google Latitude allows you to share your physical location through Google Maps (even if you’re not on a phone). This is done by sending invitations to your friends through Gmail, or by accepting invitations sent to you from your friends (must also be through Gmail). Location sharing is completely controllable; you get to choose who (or who not) to share your location with.

Much like MSN messenger, Google Latitude also allows a you to upload a picture as well as a status message, so your friends can see what you’re up to, and vise versa.

Once a friends location is pinpointed, you can then “click” on the friends location, much like clicking on traditional Google Maps business listings. This will bring up the friends contact info, allowing you to contact your friend quickly via SMS, IM or a phone call. Google Latitude will also give you directions directly to your friends location!

2. Shop Savvy

“Shop Savvy”, is a bar code-scanning software that works through your phones camera. Shop Savvy on the Android allows you to scan a bar code and instantly find the best prices for online and local items. Shop Savvy was created by a company called “Big In Japan”, which builds mobile apps, including apps for the iPhone.

Shop Savvy will revolutionize the way consumers shop, both offline and on. By allowing consumers to scan a bar code in a store, receive the best prices for that item both online and at other local stores, companies will have to work harder at ensuring their prices are competitive. If not, their sale walks literally out the door following directions on their Android to other local stores with better prices. Or, their sales move to online retailers all together.

The days of walking store-to-store to comparison shop, and calling your late friends to see where they are, are over. The Android will change the way friends communicate, and how consumers shop in interesting ways.

For more on the Android, visit Rogers Wireless.