Looks like the smartphone with a real keyboard is getting its own custom software–just like that other smartphone without a real keyboard. Nothing works perfectly yet, as with all software hacks (and all software, for that matter). I love competition, and this is a step in the right direction.

The much anticipated Helio Ocean hit the market Friday and hardcore Helio fans like LilPeaPod couldn’t be more excited. It’s being marketed as the "world’s first dual slider that has it all."

The "all" includes: full keyboard, separate numeric keypad, idle screen search, video, camera, e-mail, text messaging, AIM and audio with stereo bluetooth. Of course, it also supports Helio Music, GPS-enabled services and applications and photo caller ID.

While the device was released more than a month in advance of the iPhone, some people are saying it will give the Apple phone a run for its money. In fact the last time I checked more than 50 percent of people who voted on Gizmodo’s Helio Ocean vs. Apple iPhone poll had chosen the Helio.