The much touted Android 2.1 has been released but there are many smart phone users with older models that will not reap the benefits. Older phones simply do not have the processor capability or memory to handle some of the new features in version 2 .1. In this respect, people will have a decision to make as to whether to continue on the current path they are on or upgrade to a new phone.

Newer phones, such as Motorola Droid, Droid Eris, and Backflip already come equipped with the ability to handle 2.1. Other phones in this list include the Cliq/XT and the 3G/LE along with the HTC Hero and Moment. These phones have all been confirmed by the manufacture to be the ones definitely receiving Android 2.1.

Some of the phones that did not make the list for one reason or another are the G1, the Samsung Behold II and the myTouch 3G series models with 192MB of RAM. The G1 has been around for quite a long time and its capability to store and run version 2 .1 is in question. Version 2 .1 takes up much more room than the original version 1.0 that was shipped with the G1 and by all accounts the manufacturers are simply going to let it live its lifetime as it is.

For the owners of these older phones, there is still a ray of hope. By looking around some of the XDA forums, you are sure to find some custom ROMs that will give you the ability to run 2.1 on your phone. There are already a couple of these available for Android 2.1.

When selecting one of these new custom ROMs and installing it, be sure to follow the directions to the letter. There is a possibility, albeit a small one, that it may render your phone useless. The best scenario for the older phone user is that they get their upgrade through the proper channels and are able to get a few more months of use from their phones.

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