Android, Google’s cell phone software answer to Apple’s iPhone, will finally make its first official appearance in November, but without some of the functionality many have been hoping for. HTC will be rolling out the first Android-based phone, but push email will require a Gmail account, and Microsoft Exchange support will likely be missing, according to BusinessWeek.

HTC’s phone will also include Google’s advertising software pre-installed. While opting in on ad viewing could give customers a discount on their phone and cell service, it also means they will be subjected to advertisements based on user interests and location -- which means that the phone will be reporting each user’s location back to Google.

Users will have access to T-Mobile’s version of Apple’s App Store, the iTunes-based distribution system for third party iPhone and iPod touch applications. T-Mobile plans to impose fewer restrictions on developers in hopes of offering more applications than the App Store, which could lead to a wider range of apps, or potentially multiple versions of the infamous "I Am Rich" that was pulled from the App Store.

With limited functionality and a reliance on Gmail for push email services, Google Android could have a hard time gaining acceptance with buyers sitting on the fence waiting to see if it outperforms the iPhone. It also could make business buyers reluctant to spend their money since they might be reluctant to trust their corporate emails to Google’s still in beta email service, and that could make Android a tough sell to other smartphone makers, too.