AT&T Locks Down The Moto Backflip

Well, here we go again. AT&T just can't resist making themselves look totally inept at running one of the biggest networks in the US. AT&T's first foray into Android, the Moto Backflip, isn't a great device to begin with, but it does the job, especially for a new smartphone user, and since Android 2.1 should be coming any minute now, it's sure to make some folks happy. Well, if AT&T can keep their grubby hands off it, that is.

News broke this week that the Blackflip, while running MotoBLUR, Motorola's social spin on Android, will not be able to install any apps outside of the official Android market. On any other Android device, the option exists to install apps from unknown sources at your own risk. Seriously AT&T!? When will you learn? Have you not been paying any attention to the iPhone? Users want choice. We want to be able to decide what gets installed on our devices. If AT&T thinks for a second that this is a smart move, they're sadly mistaken. Even Verizon hasn't locked down their Android devices. If you were considering a Backflip, the decision has just been made for you. Don't get one.