This is question I frequently receive from friends who are thinking of taking the step to join the smartphone rally. Which one should I get? The truth of the matter is, if you never had a smartphone before, all of the new phone will likely make you giddy with joy with their features and apps. However, I’ll try to make a unbiased review for you on the three leading platforms on the market right now. I naturally excluded Symbian and Window Mobile due to their limited potential going forward.

iPhone – This is the phone that tramps all others in the smartphone marketplace. It has the largest app (tiny programs customized to work within the small screen space) directory in the world and the largest user base. Now this is the phone to get if you want to have a simple to use smartphone with a good deal of developer support and established user base.

Pros – Largest app directory, iTunes integration, the most available games of any mobile platform. GSM based phone so can be used overseas on vacation or travels.

Cons – Only available on AT&T (Bad rep for service), no planned Flash support (No Hulu or full youtube experience). No background processing (Phone only allows one apps running at a time, so you can’t surf the web and IM at the same time) No physical keyboard (limited to touchscreen keys)

Android – This is the new bad boy open source mobile platform on the market. It has the support of Google, one of the largest web enterprises in the world. The platform has the least restrictions in usage and the largest cross carrier user base in the world. This is a great choice for those already using Google’s service such as gmail or calendar.

Pro- Open source, no limitation on how you or developers can use the software. Built in access to Google related services (Gmail, Maps, Calendar,etc) Ability to run background services (Surf the web and IM at the same time). Flash support planned for the future. Multiple device form factors (Touchscreen, keyboard, etc)

Cons – Limited app catalog at the time due to late start. The platform is still growing and older devices may not support latest features and updates. No iTunes integration for music or movies. No desktop app like iTunes to manage contacts and music.

Palm – The new release of WebOS platform has reinvigorated the Palm community. However, because the platform is so new and so few devices has it, the app catalog is the smallest of the three. In addition, because the shortage of users, developer interest in the platform is weaning. So it only has a short time to catch up before being relegated to the tech past much like Window Mobile. However, the devices are elegant and do support some interesting features.

Pros – Beautiful devices with well developed platform. Multitouch enabled just like the iPhone.

Cons – Small app catalog with weaning developer interest. Available only on Verizon and Sprint, so no international usage with the phone.

Overall, as it stands right now. It’s really a two horse race with iPhone and Android. If you’re looking for something familiar and popular – IPhone is definitely for you. However, if you’re into the cutting edge and prefer to tinker with your own gear, then Android is definitely the platform for you.