I use my Moto Android with Skype for any call that would normally cost me - the other end needs the client as well but it's simple and free. they DO charge for skype-to-landline calls, but not unless you agree to it. I'm loving google voice, and like the sounds of Lumber's setup with Sipgate

Not to down play any device utilizing Android. That being said the incarnations of droid are great for your uses. I would suggest waiting a few more weeks, unless however you prefer the on screen keyboard. DroidX is out and supasses every droid to date, IMO, and is how I am listing this. Its only disadvantage, which Dave may agree with, is the direction pad. I miss that feature on the tactile keyboard. Which is a great segway to waiting a few more weeks. A second moto droid is scheduled for release with the sexy name of Droid2. The secondary benefit of this wait will be this devices native release of android 2.2 which will have flash capabilities and beafier hardware including the snapdragon processor.

With your technical abilities you may appreciate the next version of the SDK which will make developing personalized apps for your droid easier and less cumbersome so you have time for other things, like building boats.

Since more moto droid users will be looking to this device then any other you may want to stay tuned and order on release date. Rumor has it Android2.2 will not work on moto droid original.

So with what you have revealed, I would recommend either DroidX or Moto Droid2.

Edit: I forgot to include DroidX ability to be become your own hotspot should you be out of internet reception with your laptop.

All in all I think you will appreciate this device.

Great information! Thanks.

Thanks, although my "technical abilities" are execrable, the open source community is good at is fine-tuning and developing their packages until they are dumbed-down to the point that even I get it.

I'll follow your advice and hold off a bit.

I agree with 5th that you might want to wait to see how the release of Froyo (2.2) rolls out. I know there's a lot of chatter about whether my Ally will get it. Personally, for my needs, I'm happy if I'm stuck with 2.1 but, if you want to do more geekie-stuff than I do, you should probably wait to ensure any phone you get will get Froyo.

One big advantage with Froyo is the ability to move apps to your memory card, freeing up the phone's memory.

LJ now would be a great time to invest in an Android enable device. Out of the box Droid2 is your best bet. Launched with AndroidOS 2.2 (AKA Froyo) and a better all around feel to the device you probably find it 99% what you need. Designing personalized apps for your needs can't be easier. Gmail - imap email, a great device with phone capabilities.

For those of you with pre 1ghz processing Froyo is rolling out to you too. My wife's hand-me-down moto droid got Froyo last night.

Incredibles and X's are in line.

Good luck on your endeavor LJ. If you get any Android 2.2 enabled device, do give a review.

My Ally is supposed to get Froyo in September, rumor has it. I'm looking forward to being able to move apps to the memory card, among other things.

I'd long been lusting for a Netbook but, ya know, with an Android, you really don't need one.