The T-Mobile G1

1. • The free application, Open Overclocker, is perhaps the most efficient method of forcing the G1 to run faster. In essence, the application makes the processor on the phone believe it is capable of running at a faster speed. Therefore, the processor works a little harder, giving the device a much-needed speed-boost. It is important to note, however, that in order for the G1 to maintain the settings set by Open Overclocker, the application must be opened by the root user.

     In order to gain root access, download “PTerminal” from the Android Market (see Resources); make sure the phone’s Wi-fi is turned on in order to give the device an IP address. Open PTerminal and type:

     1. cd system
     -ENTER
     2. cd bin
     -ENTER
     3. telnetd
     -ENTER
     4. netstat (to get the IP address for the device)
     -ENTER
     5. telnet <IP address from step 5>

     Once root access is achieved, open Open Overclocker and set the minimum and maximum speeds to 528 for optimum performance.

   • One of the biggest complaints about the G1 is the default browser. The Android browser has been criticized by customers and experts alike. The interface is slow, clunky and tends to freeze at random intervals. The solution to this particular problem is simple: Get a new browser. Opera Mini is the perfect browser to use if you are looking for speed. It is rated the fastest mobile browser by CNET, so you will not likely be disappointed by its performance. Find the program in the Android Market and install it. Note, though, that as of July 2009, Opera has not yet updated Opera Mini to include multitouch functionality, so this feature will be lost if you choose to install the program.

   • Keep in mind that the G1 is essentially a computer. Just as your personal Mac or PC requires maintenance, so does your phone. Only have installed on the phone the applications that you need and use; the more memory that is taken up on the device, the slower it will run. Next, use your memory card for as much as possible, to keep the main systems unaffected by applications. Finally, keep only a few essential programs on the home screen. Instead you can access your applications from the main application menu.