People get so excited about Apple that and Apple this, that functional alternatives like the G-1 and Blackberry go unnoticed
They don't go unnoticed. It's only in geek-apple-loving communities like HN where they make it seem like the iPhone is the only viable choice for a joyful mobile experience.
Out there, normal people are buying other phones and are happy with them. Last time I checked Blackberry was still outselling the iPhone. http://www.phonemag.com/blackberrys-dominate-top-five-us-sma...