Interesting post. I could readily think of some people I know and the categories they belong to.

I would like to add some comments about Nokia.

> other than the new N900 what real meaningful smart phone is in play?

I’m in the market for a new “smart” phone and since I’m with T-mo, iPhone and Driod are not an option for me.

When I was researching about N900, I came to know about Nokia
5800 and it’s siblings. Here is a review comparing Nokia 5800 with iPhone:

http://www.tube5800.com/category/nokia-tube-vs-apple-iphone/

Now, I know that 5800 is a somewhat older model (based on Symbian S60) and that it uses resistive technology for touch, but it is a very feature rich phone. It appears to be a popular handset in Europe and other parts of the world but I don’t think it was ever heavily marketed in the US. I may be wrong.
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Everyone knows that Apple releases highly polished and sleek products. The point that goes out unnoticed most of the time is that there aren’t too many choices when it come to Apple products.

The message is very crisp and clear. An iPhone is a device you crave for – “neighbors envy, owners pride”.

Now, compare that to the multitude of Andriod or Nokia phones that are out there.
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In a few years time, almost everyone would have a smartphone in their pocket. It would be very interesting to see who would be the leading players then.