Cellphones, Smartphones And Blackberry Reviews

Unbelievable BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet from RIM

2011-01-31T01:08:00.000-08:00

the BlackBerry PlayBook is designed to give users what they want, including uncompromised web browsing, true multitasking and high performance multimedia, while also providing advanced security features, out-of-the-box enterprise support and a breakthrough development platform for IT departments and developers. The incredibly powerful and innovative BlackBerry PlayBook is truly a game-changing product in the growing tablet marketplace.

Full list of specifications for BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet as follows:

* 7-inch LCD, 1024 x 600, WSVGA, capacitive touch screen with full multi-touch and gesture support
* BlackBerry Tablet OS with support for symmetric multiprocessing
* 1 GHz dual-core processor
* 1 GB RAM
* Dual HD cameras (3 MP front facing, 5 MP rear facing), supports 1080p HD video recording
* Video playback: 1080p HD Video, H.264, MPEG, DivX, WMV
* Audio playback: MP3, AAC, WMA
* HDMI video output
* Wi-Fi – 802.11 a/b/g/n
* Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR
* Connectors: microHDMI, microUSB, charging contacts
* Open, flexible application platform with support for WebKit/HTML-5, Adobe Flash Player 10.1, Adobe Mobile AIR, Adobe Reader, POSIX, OpenGL, Java
* Ultra thin and portable:
* Measures 5.1"x7.6"x0.4" (130mm x 193mm x 10mm)
* Weighs less than a pound (approximately 0.9 lb or 400g)
* RIM intends to also offer 3G and 4G models in the future.

Samsung W899 Smarthone Android 2011

2011-01-26T22:10:00.000-08:00

Samsung W899 Smarthone Android 2011 – Melengkapi jajaran handset Android-nya, Samsung meluncurkan device gadget terbaru yang ditujukan bagi penyuka smarthone bermodel clamshell, Samsung W899. Tak tanggung-tanggung, W899 hadir dengan dual Super AMOLED multitouch 3.3 inci.

Layar pertama terletak di bagian depan dan ketika ponsel ini dibuka maka akan tampak layar kedua di bagian atas dan number pad di bagian bawah. Itu berarti Anda bisa memilih antara keyboard virtual atau keyboard fisik di bagian dalam.

Tak hanya dua layar, W899 juga dilengkapi dual konektivitas yakni CDMA/EVDO dan GSM/UMTS. Dapur pacunya sendiri diperkuat dengan prosesor 1 GHz dan memori internal 512 MB yang berjalan pada sistem operasi Android 2.2 (Froyo).

Untuk melengkapi pesonanya, Samsung W899 membenamkan dua kamera (5 megapiksel Rear Camera dan VGA Front Facing Camera), serta koneksi WiFi, Bluetooth, mobile hotspot, GPS, dan slot kartu microSD.

Tapi sayang, “Samsung W899″ hanya tersedia di pasar Cina melalui jaringan operator China Telecom. Hingga saat ini belum ada konfirmasi mengenai kisaran harga dan rencana perluasan pasar ke negara lain

Tips Memilih Blackberry

2011-01-25T20:40:00.000-08:00

Blackberry keluaran terbaru terus bermunculan, baik yang ori maupun yang refurbish, belum lagi dengan blackberry keluaran China yang mirip sekali dengan blackberry asli. Hal ini semakin mempersulit bagi calon penikmat blackberry pemula untuk memilih mana yang asli dan aspal alias asli tapi paslu.
Cara termudah adalah beli langsung dari operator, karena saat ini operator besar di Indonesia sudah banyak ber-iklan tentang launching produk terbaru blackberry, anda bisa mendatangi gerai-gerai mereka bahkan sekarang produk blackberry bisa dapat langsung dipesan secara online.

BB paketan dari operator tersebut, biasanya harganya murah, dan bisa dicicil pula. Kalau Anda punya kartu kredit, cukup auto debet saja tagihannya selama setahun ke dalam kartu kredit yang kini Anda miliki.
Tapi, tidak semua orang punya dana lebih dan kartu kredit, pilihan kedua jatuh pada membeli BB BN1B baik itu garansi atau Black Market. Biasanya BNIB sudah terbebas dari penyakit PIN suspend dan jeratan IT policy.Tapi yang menjadi soal dari BB baru adalah, legalitas PIN dan apakah benar tidak BB yang Anda beli itu 100% baru?

Langkah-langkah Untuk Membeli BlackBerry Baru :
Jika toko tempat Anda membeli ini adalah toko yang jujur, maka dia akan mengatakan status BB yang dijualnya. Apakah BM dan 100% baru alias diimpor dari stock operator luar negeri (AT&T, dan lainnya), BNIB, BB 14 Days, ataukah BB refurbished.
Yang paling mahal tentunya Black Market 100% dari operator luar negeri (terbungkus), kemudian Brand New In Box (100% baru tapi di luar kotak) dan dua katagori selanjutnya tentulah BB tersebut adalah BB bekas. Tinggal Anda saja yang memastikan, kebenaran dari kata-kata si penjual tadi.
Sebelum memulai perjalanan belanja, pastikan Anda harus memiliki SIM card yang sudah terdaftar pada layanan BlackBerry dari operator langganan Anda. Tidak perlu punya smartphone BlackBerry untuk mendaftarkan layanan BlackBerry dari operator. Caranya gampang, Anda tinggal menuju ke gerai layanan operator yang kini Anda pakai. Daftarkan SIM card Anda, dan beres sudah!

Langkah 1: Cari Harga Yang Paling Pas Di Kantong
Jika Anda mencari BB 100% baru dan resmi, maka kantor operator langganan Anda adalah tujuan utama.Tapi Jika Anda ingin yang harganya agak murah, maka BlackBerry BM 100% baru bisa Anda pilih.Tentu saja harganya tak seberapa beda dengan BB Resmi.
Carilah BB sesuai dengan kriteria yang Anda pilih ke semua toko yang menawarkan BlackBerry. Jika ada toko yang harganya cocok, maka lanjutkan ke tahapan berikutnya.

Langkah 2: Periksa Kotak Kemasan dan Kelengkapan
Biasanya, BlackBerry BM yang 100% baru memiliki kotak bikinan sendiri yang bentuk dan warnanya seragam hampir di semua toko. Karena toko-toko tersebut memiliki pemasok yang sama. Carilah BlackBerry BM dengan kotak yang paling meyakinkan dan paling bagus diantara semua toko yang ada.
Jika Anda kebetulan membeli BlackBerry BNIB, maka lebih mudah memeriksa kelengkapannya. Lihat pada gambar, BlackBerry asli milik operator luar negeri (AT&T) memiliki kelengkapan khas. Yaitu box berwarna Orange, dengan colokan charger yang menggunakan konektor 3 kaki atau konektor pipih. Konektor ini jelas-jelas tidak digunakan dalam standart colokan listrik di Indonesia. Kemudian stiker IMEI tertempel rapi pada box, dan tidak ada bekas luntur atau menumpuk pada stiker IMEI yang sebelumnya telah ada dalam box tersebut. Kalu ada tanda-tanda tersebut, maka IMEI BB ini kemungkinan besar telah diakali, jadi solusinya can di toko lain saja.

Langkah 3: IMEI Yang Ada Dalam Box dan BlackBerry Harus Rapi dan Sama
Untuk melihat IMEI, baca saja IMEI yang ada di box, lalu periksa stiker IMEI yang ada di balik BlackBerry yang akan Anda beli (sama seperti stiker IMEI pada ponsel biasa). Jika sama, maka semuanya cocok, tinggal Anda memeriksa, apakah sticker IMEI tersebut asli ataukah palsu. Biasanya IMEI BB memiliki awalan 2 dan 3, untuk tipe lama menggunakan awalan angka 1.
Stiker asli, akan tertempel dengan rapi sejajar dengan slot SIM dan slot MMC, jadi tidak lebar dan asal tempel seperti yang ada pada gambar ini.

Langkah 4: Tanyakan Tentang Jaminan dan Garansi
Langkah selanjutnya adalah tanyakan tentang Jaminan dari si penjual, apabila BlackBerry yang akan Anda beli tersebut tidak dapat meng-akses layanan server BlackBerry dari operator Anda. Atau bisa juga setelah beli dan dicoba ternyata BB tersebut ternyata PIN suspend atau masih terikat IT policy.
Apakah yang akan dia lakukan, akan replace dengan BlackBerry lain, ataukah akan mengembalikan uang Anda 100%.Tanyakan juga mengenai garansi, apakah ada garansi perbaikan atau tidak. Itu semua harus jelas di awal, Jika semua sudah clear, lanjutkan ke tahapan berikutnya.

Langkah 5: Lakukan Cek Fisik dan Keypad
Biasanya tahapan ini dilakukan ketika BlackBerry sudah Anda bayar, karena mau tidak mau, Anda harus menyalakan BlackBerry tersebut. Gunanya untuk diperiksa setting koneksi ke server dan juga soal IT policy tadi. Sebelum membayar, periksa dulu fisiknya, mulus tanpa cacat atau tidak.
Setelah ON, lihat pancaran layarnya, BB baru memilliki pancaran layar yang terang dan tulisannya jelas. Jika Anda membeli BB yang dibawa dari operator (misal: AT&T), maka start-up menu juga memiliki logo yang sama yaitu AT&T. Jika star-upnya berbeda, maka Anda patut curiga.
BB yang masih belum dipakai sama sekali, keypadnya masih enak ditekan, lakukan saja test dengan menuliskan SMS, e-mail, dan aktifitas lainnya, Jika keypadnya terasa mantap ditekan, saatnya memeriksa waktu hidup dari BB yang akan Anda beli.
Masuk Option >> Status lalu ketik BUYR, maka akan muncul informasi dibawah ini.
Jika Data dan Voice usage masih 0.0 maka BB tersebut masih belum dipakai sama sekali. Kemudian lanjutkan kelangkah berikutnya.

Langkah 6: Periksa Validasi PIN
Langkah ini berguna untuk mengetahui PIN Anda ini tidak kembar dengan PIN dari BB lainnya. Istilahnya untuk menghindari PIN "nyangkut" caranya sama dengan cara memeriksa PIN Suspend dan PIN Nyangkut seperti dalam panduan membeli BlackBerry bekas di atas.
Kalau terbukti BB baru yang akan Anda beli ini terkena penyakit PIN Suspend atau PIN nyangkut. Maka tidak ada cara lain, selain mengganti unit tersebut dengan unit lain, dengan PIN yang masih bebas dari kontaminasi.

OK, semoga artikel ini bermanfaat.

Verizon Makes the Droid 2 Available to the Public

2010-08-15T22:26:00.000-07:00

Following the successful Motorola Droid phone, finally here comes its successor - the Motorola DROID 2. And Verizon has just made it available for pre-order today under its various mobile data packages. But perhaps what makes the Droid 2 a much awaited Android device is the fact that it will be pre-loaded with the Android 2.2 Froyo OS.

Being a much talked about and overhyped smartphone, expect the Motorola DROID 2 to pack-in tons of great features that will surely give its rivals a run for their money. Let’s take a closer look at what the DROID 2 has to offer then.

DROID 2 features a 3.7 touch screen 480×854 WVGA display that supports up to 16M colors and has a slide-out QWERTY keyboard. It is equipped with a 5MP camera with auto-focus, touch-to-focus, face detection, panoramic modes and other great camera features. This camera also captures DVD-D1 videos and has its own dedicated camera key.

Going further inside the DROID 2, you’d have an Android phone running on T1 OMAP 1GHz processor with its own dedicated GPU, an 8GB internal memory, 8GB pre-installed microSD card, Android 2.2 OS with Motorola Application Platform, aGPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and speakerphone.

The DROID 2 is also loaded with various Verizon-specific features including 3G Mobile Hotspot support for up to 5 devices, Visual Voice Mail, VZ Navigator, Skype Mobile, V Cast Media Manager, VZW backup
assistant and of course a plethora of Google apps and third-party Android apps.

The Motorola DROID 2 is available for pre-order now from Verizon Wireless. It will set you back for $199.99 if you opt to get it with Verizon Contract that will run for 2 years.

Verizon confirms Droid X Smartphone

2010-07-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

A small number of Motorola's Droid X smartphones are experiencing display issues, Verizon Wireless has confirmed. However, Motorola has resolved the problem and is replacing affected units with new glitch-free models.

Reports had emerged, including on Engadget, that some Droid X users were seeing vertical banding and flickering on their screens, as one unhappy owner demonstrated in a video on YouTube. But the defect apparently affects only a small number of phones--around one tenth of 1 percent, according to Verizon.

A statement issued by Verizon Wireless on Tuesday and sent to CNET on Wednesday briefly describes the issue and course of action for affected owners:

"Verizon Wireless and Motorola are aware of a very small number of Droid X units that have experienced a flickering or banding display. Motorola has resolved the issue and is continuing to ship the phones. Any consumer who experiences a flickering or banding display should contact Motorola customer support center or Verizon Wireless."

A Verizon Wireless representative also confirmed that any Droid X owner with the display problem will receive a replacement phone.

The Android-based Droid X, which hit Verizon and Best Buy stores last week, sells for $199.99 with a two-year contract.

Blacberry Storm 3

2010-07-22T21:07:00.000-07:00

Bagi penggemar Blacberry Storm kabar berikut ini akan membuat penasaran untuk segera melihat launching perdananya.

Belum lama ini beredar rumor spesifikasi dari ponsel Blackberry Storm terbaru, Blackberry Storm 3. Seperti dilansir Engadget, dikutip CBN, Blackberry Storm 3 kemungkinkan besar tidak akan berbeda jauh dari pendahulunya, Blackberry Storm 2.

Rumor yang beredar BB Storm 3 ini mempunyai specs:
* Shell is the same as the Storm 2 but is different under the hood
* 1GHz Processor
* 8GB Internal Memory
* 512MB flash memory but new tests have been with 1GB
* It will NOT run OS 6.0 – a new OS of its own
* 5MP camera for now
* Ability to run widgets with ability to personalize
* SurePress Touchscreen, but it will be very different than before
* It will be Verizon’s first or second LTE device
* It’s currently being tested by a limited team to prevent leaks out

Engadget menambahkan, dari segi tampilan desain serta fitur yang beredar tersebut, Storm 3 hanyalah sebuah 'penyegaran' dengan sedikit perubahan untuk mengakomodasi sistem operasi terbaru Blackberry, Blackberry OS 6.0.

Selain itu, rumor yang berupa slideshow menyebutkan bahwa Storm 3 mendukung layanan jaringan 3G, memori RAM 512MB, WiFi, Blackberry OS 6.0, dan berkemampuan touchscreen.

Menjadi tanda tanya besar kapan gadget ini akan benar-benar di rilis ke pasaran, setidaknya hingga akhir 2011 belum ada bocoran-bocoran kapan akan di produksi massal.

BlackBerry Curve 8320 Titanium (T-Mobile)

2010-02-15T22:56:00.000-08:00

The BlackBerry Curve is the smallest, lightest BlackBerry ever with a QWERTY keyboard. It features a liquid silver finish with clean lines, curved edges, and easy-to-use trackball navigation. The sleek design balances both personal and work needs with the perfect blend of performance and usability. The Curve is the first BlackBerry to support an enhanced media player, and stereo Bluetooth® headset capabilities. Snap crisp photos on the 2 MP camera with 5x zoom and flash. Need more storage? It has a microSD™ expandable memory slot to store music, videos and more. The Curve comes with BlackBerry's first email spellchecker and TeleNav Maps. Go global, the Curve has everything you ever needed or wanted in a BlackBerry.

BlackBerry Curve 8320 Titanium (T-Mobile)

* Smallest QWERTY Blackberry Ever
* Access to BES and BIS email
* Media Player for music, videos, etc.
* 2 Megapixel camera
* Spell-check feature
* Supports expandable MicroSD memory
* Phone features like voice activated dialing, conferencing, speakerphone and Bluetooth™ capability
* Travel in over 125 countries with global voice and data roaming
* Bluetooth™ v2.0 with support for stereo headsets/ USB 2.0 connectivity
* Powerful 312 MHz processor
* BlackBerry Messaging (‘IM like’ messaging to other BB devices)

Included Accessories

* Lithium ion battery
* Compact wall charger
* Earbud headset
* USB data cable

Read full specs here

AT&T Phone Samsung Mythic - Black

2010-02-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

Connect at 3G high speed with the black AT&T Samsung Mythic and watch Mobile TV. View full length episodes 24 /7 on the AT&T Samsung Mythic smartphone's 3.3-inch 360 x 640 pixel 262k color touch screen. Accelerometer automatically adjusts from portrait to landscape views.
The Samsung Mythic lets you visit your favorite websites in full HTML, read your email (Yahoo / AOL / Windows Live), send Instant Messages (AOL / Gmail / Hotmail / Windows Live / Yahoo! Messenger) and have access to weather information and more with att.net. Stay connected with your Facebook / MySpace / YouTube communities when on the move. Virtual QWERTY keyboard makes for a quick response.

Samsung Mythic SGH-a897 Specifications:

# GSM / GPRS 850 900 1800 1900 MHz
# 3G UMTS / HSDPA 850 1900 2100 MHz
# EDGE
# 3.3" 360 x 640 px 262k color touch screen
# Accelerometer (auto portrait / landscape views)
# TouchWiz interface (33 Widgets)
# 3 home screens
# Haptic feedback
# Virtual QWERTY
# Handwriting recognition
# GPS / AT&T Navigator
# HTML Web browser
# Mobile TV / Live TV
# Mobile Video
# Social Networking (Facebook / MySpace / YouTube)
# att.net
# MEdia Mall
# AppCenter (ringtones / answer tones / cool tools / videos)
# Mobile Email (Yahoo / AOL / Windows Live)
# Instant Messaging (AOL / Gmail / Hotmail / Windows Live / Yahoo! Messenger)
# Music Player

* AAC / AAC+ / eAAC+ / MP3
* WMA / 3GP / MP4 / M4A

# AT&T Music
# XM Radio streaming music
# Shop Music
# Playlists
# MusicID
# MobiRadio / Billboard Mobile Channel
# Music Sync
# Bluetooth stereo
# 3.5mm headset jack
# MicroSD memory expansion slot
# Max 16GB microSD / microSDHC support
# USB connectivity
# 3.2 MP camera / camcorder

* Flash (Automatic Flash / Normal Flash / No Flash)
* Auto Focus
* Geotagging
* Shutter sounds
* Shooting modes (single / continuous / panorama / Smile Shot / Mosaic)
* Camera resolution

o 3M (2048x1536) / w2M (1920x1080)
o 2M (1600x1200) / 1M (1280x960)
o 0.3M (640x480) / 640x360

* Camcorder Resolution (320x240 / 176x144)
* White Balance
* Effects (None / Black and White / Sepia / Negative / Water Color.)
* Brightness

# AT&T Video Share
# 2,000 entry phone book (4 numbers / email)
# Picture caller ID
# Speakerphone
# Voice Recognition
# Multimedia Messaging
# My-Cast Weather
# Yellow Pages Mobile
# WikiMobile
# JuiceCaster
# MobiVJ
# Mobile Banking
# Calendar
# Voice recorder
# Alarms
# Sketchpad
# Memo
# Tasks
# Calculator
# Tip Calculator
# World Clock
# Converter
# Timer
# Stopwatch
# Games:

* Bejeweled / World Poker Tour Hold 'Em 2
* Tumbling Dice / Block Breaker Deluxe 2
* I-play Bowling

# TTY / TTD compatible
# Over the Air Firmware upgrade (FOTA)
# 180 MB internal memory
# 1150 mAH battery
# 3 hours of talk time
# 252 hours of standby time
# Weight: 3.8 oz.
# Dimensions: 4.49 (H) in x 2.06 (W) in x 0.5 (D) in

BlackBerry Curve 8530

2010-02-15T22:32:00.000-08:00

The Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone runs on the Blackberry version 5.0 OS and features an optical trackpad, QWERTY keyboard and external media keys. The Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 has all one needs when away from the computer.

With the BlackBerry Curve 8530 and its 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can enjoy HTML Web browsing, access your email, Instant Messaging and watch streaming media such as V CAST Video on Demand.

Keeping you up to speed with your personal and professional worlds, the Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 lets you control a maximum of 10 email accounts and keeps you in touch with your social networking communities (Facebook / MySpace / Flickr).

BlackBerry Internet Service (BIS) and BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) ensure you can read your email when you need to. Open Microsoft Word / Excel / PowerPoint / Adobe email attachments and integrate with Microsoft Exchange / IBM Lotus Domino / Novell GroupWise Enterprise email.

Let the Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 and VZ Navigator guide you to your destination with voiced turn by turn driving directions, maps and more. You're never lost with the BlackBerry Curve 8530.

Take photos and capture video with the Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone's 2.0 megapixel camera / camcorder. Features include 5X digital zoom, fixed focus and multimedia messaging.

Play your favorite albums and video anytime. The Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 has a Media Player with external dedicated media keys (play / pause / back / forward) located on the top of the device. Connect a 3.5mm stereo headset or pair to Bluetooth stereo speakers / Bluetooth stereo headset and enjoy.

Add to your media library with downloads from V CAST Music with Rhapsody. Synchronize your music with BlackBerry Media Sync and stay organized.

You have all the room for your documents, images, video and music. The BlackBerry Curve 8530 is equipped with a microSD / microSDHC memory expansion slot and supports microSD / microSDHC cards with a maximum capacity of 16GB.

Stay connected with Bluetooth version 2.1 wireless connectivity, multiple entry phone book, Picture caller IDs, ringtone profiles, Voice Activated Dialing, Speakerphone and Visual Voice Mail.

Keep track of all of your appointments and tasks with the Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone's Personal Organizer (Calendar / Task list / Memo Pad / Voice notes). Stay productive with DataViz's Documents to Go Suite Standard Edition.

The Verizon BlackBerry Curve 8530 measures 4.29"(H) x 2.36" (W) x 0.55" (D), is powered by a 1150 mAh Li-ion and provides 4.5 hours of talk time with 252 hours standby time.

BlackBerry Gemini 8520

2010-02-11T17:25:00.000-08:00

The T-Mobile BlackBerry Gemini 8520 is slated as a low-end BlackBerry Curve, and it will definitely suit the intended market. While Power Users are going to yawn, early Pearl owners are going to want to upgrade to this device, especially because we’ve heard it’s going to come in some beautiful colors.

Before reading this review, as usual it’s not a commercially available device and therefore may not be the device you pick up from T-Mobile.
The 85xx Series Devices

The BlackBerry 8520 is a new-generation Curve and while the xx20 is the only device in the series so far, it surely won’t be the last. In the coming months (year), we can expect a rollout similar to that of other BlackBerry devices. The BlackBerry 8510 will have GPS and the 8530 will be CDMA.

About the OS

The 8520 that I’m using is running OS 4.6.1.227, which seems to be the consensus around other sites who have got their hands on the device. While OS 4.6.1 is decent, it isn’t the OS 5 that we’ve all been waiting to use. Because this is a pre-release device, it could possibly ship with OS 5, which would be a dream come true.

BlackBerry 8520 specs

For a consumer device, the 8520 has an average screen size and resolution at 320 x 240 pixels and 65,536 colors in TFT. For a device that is rumored to be a consumer phone, I’m a little surprised at the lack of consumer features. For example, the camera megapixels have been downgraded from the average 3.2 that comes with devices today, to only 2 megapixels with no flash. Picture and video are therefore going to be less than attractive for this device.

The battery has 1150 mAh (Milliamp Hours), which means it won’t be able to store as much charge as previous Curve devices. Perhaps this is where no flash will actually help in that there is less charge but less to use up the charge.

The Trackpad

The first thing that hits you about this device is obviously the trackpad. The shift to a trackpad is likely in response to the number of complaints from BlackBerry users about having to replacing the trackball because it got sand or dust in it. The trackpad seems impervious to this sort of damage and is sure to make your device last longer. At first, you may find the trackpad doesn’t respond exactly how you remember the trackball responding. Make sure to go into your settings, in the same place where you change your trackball sensitivity, and crank it up for a smoother trackpad experience.

While I like the new trackpad strategy, there is a learning Curve (pun intended). While navigating menus and browsing the internet, I found I was missing the mark a lot. This is because the trackpad requires a slightly different approach which I can only explain as “swiping” versus “rolling.” With a trackball, you can almost feel the cursor movement but with the trackpad, I felt I had to swipe my finger across the pad, and adjust. If this doesn’t make sense, all I can tell you is that it feels weird at first but you get used to it quickly. I didn’t test the trackpad in varying lighting conditions but I’ve heard this may have an impact on the responsiveness.

3G versus EDGE

Not having 3G doesn’t really have anything to do with RIM, and this is a decision that is made at the carrier relation level. It’s the same deal with WiFi, where I wish every BlackBerry came with WiFi but it’s clearly the carriers who put the kibosh on it. Since WiFi saves on data, carriers don’t want it on their consumer devices because they want their customers eating up large amounts of costly data. While it would be great to have 3G on all BlackBerry devices, EDGE is still a large market that needs servicing.

Super Thin Quadband E71 Pro Dual SIM TV Mobile Phone

2010-02-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

Hot Spots

* Quad band(GSM850/900/1800/1900MHZ)
* Dual sim cards dual standby
* Analog TV for free
* E-book reader
* Bluetooth
* Two cameras
* FM radio(can output voice)
* MP3/MP4
* Language:English/French/Spanish/Portugues/German/Bahasa Indonesia/Vietname/Turkish/Russian/Arabic/Persian

Features

1.2.4 inch screen, 260k QVGA ; PX: 240*320
2.200 group contacts
3.T-Flash Card Suphporting,761K/256MB for free,support extend TF card to 8GB max
4.0.3 Mega pixel camera for Picture & Video capability,put out biggest size is 640*480
5.Stereo Loud speaker, 64 chord ring tone
6.MP3 & MP4 player
7.GPRS & WAP connectivity, MMS Transceive
8.U disk support function to keep the information storage
9.Bluetooth
10.FM radio,
11.calendar,To do list,Alarm,World Clock,Spotwatch
12.caller picture,caller Ring Tone,caller video
13. Telephone directories:200groups of contacts, support incoming call with big head sticker,group ring an Messages &Multimedia messaging:SMS, support MMS; can use downloaded MP3 as SMS rings
14. Schedule power on/off: support to start/close under set time
15. Alarm clock:5 groups, support alarm clock when machine’s closed, can set from Monday to Sunday
16. Games: 5common games
17.More information: MP3/MP4/Handsfree/SMS group sending/Voice recorder/WAP/Keyboard input/Bluetooth/GPRS download/MMS/Memory extended/bluetooth/calendar/to do list/alarm clock/calculatorr/world time/Radio/E-book reader/Currency converter/Mobile TV.....

Quadband Blackberry 9000C Wifi JAVA TV Mobile Phone

2010-02-09T20:01:00.000-08:00

China Blackberry 9000 TV Mobile Phone:

* Network Frequency: Quad bands:850/900/1800/1900MHz+GPRS
* 2.2 inch, 260K color; 320×240px,touch screen
* Dual sim card,two standby
* Support analog TV
* 1.3 mega camera,speaker,TF card,FM,bluetooth
* Build in MSN,
* Ringtone: 64 chord; Ringtone format: mp3, wav
* Music: can play MP3/WAV/WMA at background; support to speed and pause
* Video: 3GP,MPEG,support to play in full screen, speed and adjust saturation of color
* Game, SMS/MMS , MP3, MP4, SMS group sending, Voice recorder, WAP, Handwritten input, GPRS download, Infrared interface, MMS, Smart phone, Memory extended, E-book
* accessories: 2 battery,1 charger,1 earphone,1 USB date cable,1 user manual
* Language:Optional to customer (English, French,German,Russian, Spanish,Portuguese, Arabic,Turkish, etc)
* Color:black

Sony Ericsson C905a Cyber-shot

2009-08-06T06:02:00.000-07:00

The Sony Ericsson C905a Cyber-shot stands above a sea of traditional cell phones with its high-quality, 8.1-megapixel camera for serious photo enthusiasts.

Price

Despite the high you might feel from learning about the C905a’s high-quality camera, you might feel low when you learn of its price.

With a no-contract retail price of $329.99 and a two-year contract price of $229.99, a $50 mail-in rebate still only brings the C905a down to $179.99 with a two-year AT&T service contract.

For just $20 more, you’re then at the price level of the mega smartphones with a contract (i.e. the Palm Pre for Sprint, the T-Mobile myTouch 3G for T-Mobile and the iPhone 3G S for AT&T).

Features

# High-quality, 8.1-megapixel camera with image stabilization, automatic focus, face detection, a xenon flash and 16X digital zoom
# Tri-band world phone
# 3G for high-speed wireless
# Music player with streaming radio and built-in FM radio
# MusicID (identify songs you’re listening to)
# Picture messaging, text messaging and instant messaging
# Video share
# Mobile email
# Web browser
# Ringtones
# Games (puzzle, sports, action, card, racing and more)
# Calendar, alarm clock, personal organizer and address book
# Call waiting, caller ID, conference calling and call forwarding
# Multitasking (use voice and data simultaneously)
# Bluetooth short-range wireless (i.e. for a wireless headset)
# USB connectivity (transfer data through a USB cable)
# Hands-free speakerphone
# Voice dialing and voice commands
# 2.4-inch display at 320x240 resolution
# Predictive text for fast typing
# 93 megabytes of internal memory; expandable to 8 gigabytes with Memory Stick Micro

Motorola Clutch i465: First Full-Keyboard Nextel Direct Connect Phone

2009-08-06T05:50:00.000-07:00

The Motorola Clutch i465 is the first full-keyboard cell phone to feature Nextel Direct Connect, which allows for the popular walkie-talkie or push-to-talk feature.
In addition, group messaging allows customers to create groups of up to 20 people to send messages to all at the same time.

Price

While the no-contract retail price of the Motorola Clutch i465 starts all the way up at a pricey $259.99, $170 in instant savings as well as a $50 mail-in rebate bring the price down to an extremely affordable $39.99.

The $39.99 price requires a two-year service contract. The price also requires a new line of service or an eligible upgrade (meaning you haven’t upgraded your cell phone in two years).

Features

# GPS navigation
# Rugged architecture
# Web browsing capable
# Camera with 4X zoom (640x480 resolution)
# Nextel Direct Connect (walkie-talkie service)
# International Direct Connect (international walkie-talkie service)
# Group Connect (message to a group of people at once)
# Direct Talk (all-digital off-network Direct Connect)
# Direct Send (send contact information and pictures to Direct Send-capable devices)
# Multimedia messaging (send or receive voice, text and pictures)
# Voice-activated dialing
# Hands-free speakerphone
# Java applications and games
# Multiple languages
# Hearing-aid compliant
# 911 emergency location capable
# Second Line Service (two different phone numbers assigned to the same phone)
# Bluetooth short-range wireless (i.e. for a wireless headset)
# Call alert (send a repeating alert to another Direct Connect subscriber)
# Downloadable applications, games, ringtones and wallpapers
# Talkgroup (get the word out to groups of up to 200 people at once; must be in the same local market and in the same fleet)

Helio Ocean 2

2009-02-11T04:31:00.000-08:00

The Helio Ocean 2 has a spacious QWERTY keyboard and number keypad and an innovative optical sensor touch pad that allows for easier navigation. It has plenty of features like EV-DO, GPS, a full HTML browser with tabbed browsing, Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync support, quick access to several popular social networks, and more.

The bad: The Helio Ocean 2 is bulky, plus it lacks external music keys, an LED flash for the camera, and a self-portrait mirror. The microSD card slot is inconveniently located behind the battery.

The bottom lineThe bottom line: If you can get over its size, the Helio Ocean 2 is a great feature-rich handheld with enough Web-friendly goodies to please both tech-savvy hipsters and mobile professionals.

Specifications: Band / mode: CDMA 800/1900 ; Talk time: Up to 323 min ; Combined with: With digital camera / digital player

Sony Ericsson C903

2009-02-11T04:24:00.000-08:00

Sony Ericsson today unveiled the C903, a 5.0-megapixel camera phone with Face Detection and Smile Shutter technology to automatically take the best picture possible.
The Japanese cell phone maker said the C903 uses Face Detection to find up to three people in the frame. Then Smile Shutter picks out smiles and captures the photo

Users can also automatically snap up to nine images in a row and pick the best one.

With aGPS, photos can be "geotagged" with location coordinates so users have a memory of where images were taken.

The C903 can share photos on its auto-rotating 2.4-inch display or on a TV screen using the TV-out function.
The Sony Ericsson C903 will be available in selected markets in the second quarter in the colors Lacquer Black, Techno White and Glamour Red.

Specification :

The Sony Ericsson C903 has an integrated 5.0-megapixel camera to take pictures and videos. It also features Face Detection to find up to three people in the frame. Then Smile Shutter picks out smiles and captures the photo. Consumers can also automatically snap up to nine images in a row and pick the best one. With aGPS, photos can be geotagged with location coordinates so users can remember where photos were taken. The C903 can share images on its auto-rotating 2.4-inch display or on a TV screen using the TV-out function.

HP iPAQ 310 Travel Companion GPS Pocket PC Information Centre

2009-01-31T04:05:00.001-08:00

In addition to the 2008 family of iPAQ Windows Mobile PDAs and Smartphones, HP released one device built entirely around GPS navigation. The iPAQ 310 Travel Companion is that device and the successor to the rx4000 and rx5000 Series models released in 2006. The iPAQ 310 adds several new features designed to make it more usable on the go.

Like it Windows Mobile sibling, the iPAQ 210 Enterprise Handheld, the iPAQ 310 has a VGA display which allows for high-resolution map viewing and better quality video playback. The 310's display is a WVGA, however, with a 4.3" widescreen format boasting 800 x 480 resolution. Another feature of the iPAQ 310 worth noting is its 2GB of internal flash storage, which makes the unit ideal for large file storage; if you need more storage, you can add space by way of the SDHC flash memory card slot.

In addition to the onboard GPS receiver, the iPAQ 310 includes a removable 1700mAh Li-Ion battery for long battery life, integrated Bluetooth, and 125MB of system memory (RAM). The integrated Bluetooth allows you to use the 310 as a hands-free phone device in your car or truck.

It's worth noting that while the iPAQ 310 runs on Windows CE 5, the foundation of the Windows Mobile 5 and 6 operating systems, it does not run Windows Mobile; the CE operating system has been customized by HP and will be familiar to those who are used to Windows Mobile, but there are significant differences.

iPhone Portable Speaker iP27BR

2009-01-31T03:50:00.000-08:00

Design of iP27BR
If you've seen other iHome iPod offerings, the iP27BR will look familiar. It has the same rounded look of many of its iPod-only siblings (and shares a design with the iH27BR, the iPod version). The base of the unit rests on a table or shelf, while the rear speaker housing folds up to serve as a backdrop for your iPhone.

The LED clock is on the front face of the base section; it's backlit and also shows the time and other system information such as iPhone/iPod connectivity, alarm and sleep status, battery level, etc. On either side of the iPod dock are four-way buttons for controlling functions such as Play/Pause, volume, alarm on/off, and time set. In front of the dock is the snooze button which also controls the LED backlight level.
Because the iP27BR is a portable speaker system, it has two battery compartments for standard AA batteries (four total, not included) to power the unit when it's away from wall power. These compartments are on the bottom of the base. There's also a slot for a backup CR2032 coin battery to keep time if there's a power loss.

The iP27Br has a stylish, smooth design that compliments the iPhone and will work well in most rooms. Its exterior shell is plastic, and while it's solid and sturdy in construction, the control buttons are a bit loose and flimsy to the touch. The unit is also heavy enough so that it doesn't slide when you press buttons or insert an iPhone. However, it's not heavy enough to keep from raising up or sliding when you remove the iPhone with one hand.

Features

When you seat an iPhone in the dock, the unit begins charging the phone (on AC power). In iPod mode, the iP27BR acts as a speaker system for audio playback automatically.

The alarm mode works two ways; you can either set an alarm which works independently of the iPhone (a standard alarm clock buzzer), or you can wake to audio from the iPhone. You can't manually choose between these options -- if an iPhone is in the dock, you wake to iPhone content.

Unfortunately, the iPhone alarm function isn't feature-rich as it should be. When the alarm goes off, it simply begins playing back the same audio which was last playing. You can't wake up to specific playlists. And, because the iPhone's built-in software alarm doesn't allow you to wake to playlists either (just built-in sounds), you can't decide what music to listen to by default as you wake.

Once the alarm does go off, hitting the snooze button will give you nine additional minutes of rest. You can use the snooze button multiple times for up to 1 hour.

If you prefer to put the iP27BR at a distance, the included remote control makes this easy. The remote provides its own snooze button (nice touch) as well as Play/Pause, Back/Forward and volume control, a sleep button, and mute.

I should also mention that while the iP27BR is designed to work with the iPhone, it is also compatible with all modern iPod models with Dock Connectors.

Sound Quality

The iP27BR provides very good sound quality, though it's not as good as other, more expensive iPod/iPhone speakers. The speakers use Reson8 speaker technology which gives "better response characteristics and helps to deliver big, tough sound" and EXB sound enhancement which can be toggled on or off with a button the side of the base. The EXB feature does change the way audio sounds - with some music, it increases the quality of the sound, with other music not so much.

Volume levels go from 0 to 40, and at maximum volume you should be able to enjoy music or audiobooks in a small to medium sized room at a satisfactory level. If you're looking for room-shaking sound, no portable audio solution - including the iP27BR - will satisfy you.

Moans & Groans

My only real complaint about the iP27BR is that it doesn't provide logical control of the iPhone in order to wake to specific playlists. I'd like to create a playlist with music that would best rouse me and tell the unit to use that playlist as my alarm. If the iPhone's built-in alarm feature allowed you to wake to a playlist (I still can't understand why Apple provides this feature on iPods, but not on the iPhone) I would be more satisfied, but alas -- this feature is not available.

Also, with an MSRP of $119, the unit seems slightly overpriced; however you can find the iP27BR at third-party retailers for around $100 [CHECK PRICES].

Conclusion

I can recommend the iHome iP27BR to anyone who needs a basic iPhone-friendly alarm or portable speaker system with a remote. Those with more advanced needs will want to look for a more feature-rich product.

Blackbery 8800

2009-01-31T03:21:00.000-08:00

Review The Blackberry 8800
The Blackberry 8800 offers the very best in Blackberry technology.
It is the latest in the Blackberry mobile phone range and is the most stylish and highly specified Blackberry smartphone to date. Along with the standard Blackberry features of mobile phone, email client, diary, web browser and instant messaging, the BlackBerry 8800 offers Global Positioning System (GPS) / mapping services, a powerful multi-media player and Quad-band network functionality for full international roaming.

If you are new to Blackberry, the Blackberry 8800 smartphone is the one to have!

BlackBerry GPS gives enhanced access to various location based applications, along with the functionality to navigate via a pre-loaded BlackBerry Maps application. The BlackBerry 8800 also benefits from an uncompromising high-capacity battery, offering the very best in battery life and expandable memory ensures that the BlackBerry 8800 never runs short on storage for video and audio multi-media files.

Virgin Mobile rolls out pink LG flare

2009-01-30T22:09:00.001-08:00

Pink and Valentine

Virgin Mobile has updated their handset lineup with a more feminine LG Flare variant - the Pink LG Flare. The handset is available exclusively at Best Buy stores nationwide.

It looks cute and with Valentine’s Day coming up your girl might have her eye on a new phone. LG Pink Flare itself, is a simple clamshell that comes with two color displays, Bluetooth, mobile Web and voice dialing. The phone goes for just $29.99. Specifically, VM’s partnership is with Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
The company will donate $5 from each unit sold and will make a minimum contribution of $150,000. Remember, it has limited edition

Nokia Royal revealed

2009-01-30T22:05:00.000-08:00

One more expensive Nokia phone will soon be launched. “Nokia Royal” that resembles the Carbon Arte but its carbon fibre exterior is removed and fitted with a vast amount of solid platinum, held down securely by 8 handmade platinum screws. Encrusted with 8.2 cts of vvs , colour ‘F’ diamonds, a magnificent total of approximately 1160 individually set sparkling gems. The box of the Royal is made from granite and leather. At this point it doesn’t even matter if the phone can make and receive calls. The Royals are going to be launched Saturday 31st January 09, in the prestigious Colette store in Paris. This will be a limited edition with only 50 to be made.

We don’t even want to ask how much one Royal costs!

Valentine's day with Motorolla

2009-01-19T04:31:00.001-08:00

In an effort to catch some Valentine’s Day sales,Motorola (NYSE: MOT) has launched its mid-range PEBL phone in Rose Bloom color. The stylish handset is obviously designed to appeal to the females, and in that sense we can easily envision Moto selling a bunch of these till February 14th. It’s not a “power-phone,” though, sporting so-last-year specs.

There’s a 2 megapixel camera, music player, 7.2Mbps HSDPA support, standard 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD memory card slot. In a nutshell - it’s a 3G-enabled music phone for the ladies.

As for the markets where the American handset maker will sell the newly colored PEBL, we’ve heard Korean SK Telecom (NYSE: SKM) picked up the device. No word on whether some European or North American carrier will offer it, too…

Nokia E-71

2009-01-19T04:22:00.000-08:00

Nokia’s E71 has recieved a pretty noteworthy firmware update - v200.21.118, which, for now, is available to those within the European region only. Not only are the mandatory usability and stability improvements, but, also, a few new applications and themes are to be had. Such new applications are: Internet Radio, and the My Nokia application.

Two new themes are also available to choose from. Lastly, slight improvements to the E71’s camera have been made, as well as to the device’s WLAN functionality. As always, you can download the latest firmware version, from Nokia’s Software Updater application.

LG VX8550 Chocolate Maroon Phone

2009-01-07T19:24:00.000-08:00

Slimmer, lighter and sweeter than ever, LG updates its Chocolate slider phone to the VX8550 with improvements including a new metal navigation wheel (which traces your finger's movement with a small light), vibrating touch keypad, and the ability to run the music player in the background while using the other features of the phone. But many of the much vaunted features of the original Chocolate remain: silky-smooth slider design support for V Cast Music, an integrated music/video player, a 1.3 megapixel camera/camcorder, stereo Bluetooth capabilities, and a microSD memory slot for up to 4 GB of storage.

In addition to Verizon's V Cast Music feature, this phone is also enabled with the Get It Now service, which allows you to easily download ringtones, games, and applications. It runs on Verizon's CDMA 850/CDMA 1900 frequencies and EV-DO high-speed data network. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.)
The Chocolate's is a 1.3-megapixel digital camera features a flash, as well as 2x digital zoom, self-timer, night-mode functions, and brightness and white balance controls. Other features include an in-phone image editor (zoom, rotate, crop) and a mirror for self-portrait capability. The camera can also capture video clips--30 seconds for sending and up to 1 hour for saving to memory card--at a 176 x 144-pixel resolution. It's compatible with playing MP3, 3GP, and 3G2 video formats, and you can set a video as your screen's wallpaper (as long as it's under 5 MB in size).

A built-in music player with a dedicated music key for easy access, stereo speakers and an equalizer, MP3 and WMA playback, and the ability to hide the music player while still allowing the music to play on in the background. You can create and manage playlists right on the phone, as well as synchronize music between the Chocolate and your PC (using an optional USB cable and connecting with Windows Media Player 10 or higher). You can also take advantage of the Chocolate's Bluetooth wireless headset capability, allowing you to hook up a pair of Bluetooth stereo headphones.
Messaging, Internet, and Tools
The phone's support for multimedia messaging means that text, photos, video and audio can be sent with ease (Verizon messaging charges apply). When used in combination with the Chocolate's built-in camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. There's also a built-in web browser for downloads and mobile web browsing. Verizon's optional Mobile Web 2.0 package allows you to read and send emails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. You can check your email, trade stocks online, compare prices while shopping, access flight information, get movie listings and find directions to the theater. T9 text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile email and text messaging users.

With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, the Chocolate is fully compatible with Verizon's V Cast service. With V Cast music, your phone is a music player, letting you jam out wherever you are. It's also a music store, and you can download songs instantly to your phone. Save your songs to a memory card with a capacity that's right for you. You can even pause to take a call without missing a beat. You can also download and stream high-quality video--get the latest Accuweather forecast delivered right to your handset, or stream CNN news headlines. ESPN sports updates, entertainment news from E!, and even Sesame Street content for the kids. V Cast also serves as a portal for enhanced 3D games, making it possible to have more fun with a new breed of realistic games.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the Chocolate including a voice memo recorder that can record calls, a calculator, a calendar, and an alarm clock. You can even set the alarm to wake you to your favorite music. Also included with the Chocolate is Verizon's VG Navigator software, which allows you to get real-time, turn-by-turn audible directions as you're driving.

Vital Statistics
The LG VX8550 Chocolate weighs 3.24 ounces and measures 3.85 x 1.87 x .67 inches. Its l800 mAh ithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.17 hours (250 minutes) of digital talk time, and up to 350 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the CDMA 850/CDMA 1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one-year limited warranty.

LG Shine CU720 Black

2009-01-04T03:56:00.000-08:00

LG Shine CU720 Black
The LG Shine CU720 for AT&T is a beautifully styled and engineered cell phone. Its 2.2" mirror LCD display with wide viewing angle technology sets the Shine apart as an eye-catching new device. Thanks to broadband data download speeds, it delivers streaming TV and radio; the Shine also supports up to 4GB of stored music which you'll enjoy listening to via stereo Bluetooth technology. The AT&T Shine also boasts a 2.0 Megapixel camera/camcorder with an integrated flash, zoom and viewfinder.

Highlights

* Stylish Slider Design With Full Metal Body
* Unique 2.2" Wide Mirror LCD Display With Wide Viewing Angle
* Play Either Downloaded AT&T Music or PC-transferred Music Files
* Wirelessly Stream Music To A Stereo Bluetooth Headset
* High-speed Data Downloads Let You Watch Videos Or Listen To Streaming Music
* 2.0 Megapixel Camera With Flash Takes Print-quality Photos And Video Clips
* microSD Memory Port Supports Up To 4GB Card

What's In The Box With The Phone

* Additional Items Included - Battery, Wall Charger, User Guide

Advanced Features

* Digital Camera - Yes, 2.0 Megapixels (1600 x 1200 Pixel Resolution Max), Flash, Self-timer, Viewfinder, Image Editor
* Streaming Multimedia Support - Enjoy Streaming Cellular Video (CV) and AT&T Music, Access To XM Radio, MTV and HBO Mobile
* MP3 Player - Yes, Supports MP3, WMA, AAC and AAC+ Formats, Equalizer With Visualization, USB Mass Storage
* Bluetooth Wireless Technology - Yes, v1.2, HSP, HFP, DUN, OPP, FTP Profiles Supported
* Video Capture / Camcorder - Yes, 320 x 240 Pixel Resolution Max, Up to 42 Second Recording, Flash, Viewfinder
* Bluetooth Stereo Headset (A2DP) - Yes, Stream Stereo Music To and From Compatible (A2DP) Bluetooth Devices
* Voice-driven Menus - Yes, Advanced Technology Requires No Phone Pre-training
* Data Capable / Use This Phone As A Modem - Yes, With Software and Cable Sold Separately
* PC Synchronization - Yes, With Software and Cable Sold Separately

Messaging Features

* Mobile Web Browsing - Yes, WAP 2.0 Browser Built-in, Near-broadband Download Speeds, With Media Max Add-on Plan Bundles
* Multimedia Messaging - Yes, Send and Receive Picture and Video Messages, With Media Max or Messaging Starter Add-on Bundles
* Text Messaging (SMS) - Yes, 2-way, With Pre-loaded Message Templates, With Media Max or Messaging Starter Add-on Bundles
* Email Client - Yes, Yahoo!, AOL, MS Live, POP3/SMTP Protocols Supported, With Media Max Add-on Plan Bundles
* Instant Messenger Built-in - AOL, Yahoo!, ICQ and Windows Live Instant Messaging, With Media Max or Messaging Starter Add-ons

Personalization and Fun Features

* Polyphonic Ringtones - Yes, Downloadable from AT&T or Third Parties
* Pre-loaded Ringtones - Yes
* MP3 Ringtones - Yes, Downloadable from AT&T or Third Parties
* Ringer Profiles - Yes
* Picture Caller ID - Yes
* Multiple Languages - Yes
* Languages Supported - English, Spanish
* Games - Yes, Downloadable from AT&T or Third Parties
* Customizable Graphics - Yes, Downloadable from AT&T or Third Parties, Animations Supported

Core Features

* Color Main Display - 240 x 320 Pixels, Over 262,000 Colors Displayed
* Color - Black
* Style - Slider
* Warranty - LG Factory Warranty
* Speakerphone - Yes
* Voice-activated Dialing - Yes, Advanced Technology Requires No Phone Pre-training
* To-Do List - Yes
* Voice Memo - Yes
* Alarm - Yes
* Calculator - Yes
* Calendar - Yes
* Vibrate - Yes
* Phonebook Capacity - Up to 500 Contacts
* Multiple Numbers Per Name - Yes, Up to 5 Numbers, 2 Email Addresses and Picture ID
* TTY Compatible - Yes
* PDA Device - No

Battery Life

* Battery Type - Li Ion
* Talk Time - Up to 180 Minutes
* Standby Time - Up to 250 Hours

Technical Specifications

* Application Platform - Java
* Data Download Speed - HSPDA (Up to 1.4 Mbps) and EDGE (Up to 144 Kbps)
* Network Compatibility - GSM 800, 850, 1800, 1900 and HSDPA (UMTS) 850, 1900
* Compatible Carrier - AT&T
* Ringtone Types Supported - MIDI, MP3, WMA, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+
* Predictive Text Entry - Yes, T9
* 3G Data Speeds - Yes
* Dimensions - 4.0 in x 2.0 in x 0.6 in
* Internationally Compatible - Yes
* Weight - 4.3 oz
* Built-In Memory - 70MB
* Expandable Memory Capacity - microSD(TM) Memory Port, Up to 4GB Size Max

Compatibility Features

* Device Supports Voice Plans - Yes
* Available For Purchase Without Service Plan - Yes

Recommended Optional Plan Features

* AT&T Voice Plan Options - Yes
* AT&T Messaging Plan Options - Yes
* AT&T Web Plan Options - Yes
* AT&T Video Share Plan Options - Yes
* AT&T Mobile Backup Options - Yes

Motorola Krave ZN4 Black

2009-01-03T22:21:00.000-08:00

The Motorola Krave ZN4 for Verizon Wireless is Motorola's first iPhone-style touchscreen phone that actually outdoes its competitors - the Krave boasts not one touchscreen, but two. The large main display is a 2.8" touchscreen, and a clear protective "touch cover" flips down while the phone is closed.
Verizon Wireless Cell Phones and Calling Plans
This EVDO device supports Verizon's V CAST TV and Music, and makes it easy to manipulate all your media via well-designed menus. The Motorola Krave ZN4 for Verizon takes touchscreens to the next le

Highlights

* Beautiful Touchscreen Flip Phone Actually Has TWO Touch Interfaces
* "Touch Cover" Allows You To Control Some Phone Functions While It's Closed
* Supports V CAST Mobile TV and Music Streaming Services
* Streaming Stereo Bluetooth Wireless Technology
* Giant Color Screen Is Great Way to Watch Video and TV On The Go
* 2.0 Megapixel Camera/Camcorder Takes Printable Photos And Long Videos
* High-speed, Full HTML Experience Web Surfing

What's In The Box With The Phone

* Additional Items Included - Battery, Wall Charger, User Guide

Advanced Features

* Digital Camera - 2.0 Megapixels, 4x Digital Zoom, Portrait Or Landscape Viewfinder
* Streaming Multimedia Support - Yes, Watch Live Streaming TV with V CAST Mobile TV, Or On Demand Videos Or Music With V CAST Feature
* MP3 Player - Yes
* V CAST Music Player - Stream or Download Music From V CAST, Album Art, Playlists, MP3, WMA, USB 2.0, External Controls
* Bluetooth Wireless Technology - Yes, Class 2, Headset, Handsfree, DUN, OPP, FTP, BPP, BIP Profiles Supported
* GPS Services Support - Yes, Supports Verizon Navigator
* Video Capture / Camcorder - Record Short Videos, Send To Friends With TXT+PIX+FLIX Messaging Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* Voice-driven Menus - Yes, Advanced Technology Requires No Phone Pre-training
* Bluetooth Stereo Headset (A2DP) - Yes, Stream Stereo Music To and From Compatible (A2DP) Bluetooth Devices
* PC Synchronization - Yes, With Software and USB Cable Sold Separately
* Parental Controls - Yes

Messaging Features

* Multimedia Messaging - Send and Receive Picture and Video Messages With TXT+PIX+FLIX Messaging Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* Text Messaging (SMS) - Send and Receive Text Messages With TXT+PIX+FLIX Messaging Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* Instant Messenger Built-in - AOL, Yahoo! and ICQ Instant Messaging With TXT+PIX+FLIX Messaging Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* Verizon Wireless Mobile Web 2.0 - Yes, High-speed Web Surfing With Verizon Wireless Mobile Web 2.0 Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* HTML Web Browsing - Yes, Supports Full Mobile Browsing
* Email Client - Yes, Supports POP3 and SMTP Formats, With TXT+PIX+FLIX Add-on Rate Plan Feature

Personalization and Fun Features

* Polyphonic Ringtones - Yes, Downloadable
* Custom Ringtones - Yes
* MP3 Ringtones - Yes
* Ringer Profiles - Yes
* Picture Caller ID - Yes
* Multiple Languages - Yes
* Games - Yes, Downloadable
* Customizable Graphics - Yes, Downloadable

Core Features

* Color Main Display - 2.8" LCD, 400 x 240 Pixels, Over 65,000 Colors Displayed
* Speakerphone - Yes
* Voice-activated Dialing - Yes
* TTY Compatible - Yes
* Color - Black
* Voice Memo - Yes
* Style - Touch Flip
* Warranty - Motorola Factory Warranty
* Alarm - Yes
* Calculator - Yes
* Touch Screen - Yes, Internal Touch Screen And External Touch Cover
* Calendar - Yes
* Mini-USB Port - Yes
* Vibrate - Yes
* To-Do List - Yes
* Phonebook Capacity - Up to 1000 Contacts
* Multiple Numbers Per Name - Yes
* Standard 2.5mm Headset Jack - Yes
* M3 Hearing Aid Compatible - Yes, M3 Rated
* Text to Speech - Yes
* Manual Lock - Yes
* PDA Device - No

Battery Life

* Battery Type - Li Ion
* Talk Time - Up to 250 Minutes
* Standby Time - Up to 500 Hours

Technical Specifications

* Application Platform - BREW
* Network Compatibility - CDMA 850, 1900
* Data Download Speed - EV-DO (Up to 700 Kbps), 1xRTT (Up to 130 Kbps)
* Ringtone Types Supported - MIDI, WAV, MP3, AAC
* Predictive Text Entry - Yes, iTAP
* Built-In Memory - 138 MB Built-in
* Expandable Memory Capacity - Yes, Supports microSD/TransFlash Cards Up To 8 GB
* Dimensions - 4.1 in x 2.0 in x 0.7 in
* Weight - 4.5 oz
* Platform / Operating System - Synergy OS
* V CAST Enabled - Yes

Compatibility Features

* Device Supports Verizon Connect Plans - Yes
* Standard 3.5mm Stereo Headset Jack - Yes
* Device Supports Voice Plans - Yes
* Available For Purchase Without Service Plan - Yes
* Device Supports Verizon Premium Plans - Yes

Recommended Optional Plan Features

* Verizon Wireless Voice Plan Options - Yes
* Verizon Wireless V CAST Plan Options - Yes
* Verizon Wireless TXT+PIX+FLIX Plan Options - Yes
* Verizon Wireless Mobile TV Plan Options - Yes

BlackBerry Curve 8310 Titanium (Multimedia Phone)

2009-01-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

BlackBerry Curve 8310 Titanium (Multimedia Phone) Features

Get a BlackBerry Curve 8310 Titanium (Multimedia Phone) from AT&T (Cingular)!

The gorgeous BlackBerry Curve 8310 for AT&T really sets a high bar on style and functionality. Like all BlackBerry devices, the BlackBerry Curve 8310 provides possibly the best on-the-go email and calendar solution for mobile professionals. But this new BlackBerry Curve 8310 includes a 2.0 Megapixel camera, GPS, a rich experience media player, voice dialing and stereo Bluetooth. Built for smartphone lovers with a sense of style, the BlackBerry Curve 8310 is dressed for

Advanced Features

* Digital Camera - Yes, 2.0 Megapixels (1600 x 1200 Pixel Resolution Max), Flash, Self-timer
* MP3 Player - Yes, WMA Music and WMV Video Files Supported, Playlists, Shuffle
* Attachment Viewing (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Yes, View Word and Excel Documents Attached to Emails
* Bluetooth Wireless Technology - Yes, v2.0, Headset, Handsfree and Serial Port Profiles Supported
* GPS Services Support - Yes, Built-in GPS Locator And Applications Like BlackBerry Maps Built-in and Telenav
* QWERTY Keyboard - Yes, Full QWERTY Keyboard With Backlight With Spell Checker
* Bluetooth Stereo Headset (A2DP) - Yes, Stream Stereo Music To and From Compatible (A2DP) Bluetooth Devices
* PC Synchronization - Yes, Seamlessly Synchronize Your Address Book, Calendar, Pictures and Email With Your PC

Battery Life

* Talk Time - Up to 240 Minutes
* Standby Time - Up to 408 Hours

Compatibility Features

* Device Supports Voice Plans - Yes
* Device Supports Blackberry Plans - Yes
* Available For Purchase Without Service Plan - Yes
* Device Supports AT&T Messaging - Yes
* Device Supports AT&T Mobile Backup - Yes

Core Features

* Color Main Display - 240 x 260 Pixels, Over 65,000 Colors Displayed, Auto-adjust To Ambient Light Saves Battery Life
* Color - Titanium
* Style - Candybar
* Warranty - 1 Year BlackBerry Factory Warranty
* Speakerphone - Yes, Full Duplex
* Voice-activated Dialing - Yes
* To-Do List - Yes
* Alarm - Yes
* Calculator - Yes
* Calendar - Yes
* Mini-USB Port - Yes
* Vibrate - Yes
* TTY Compatible - Yes

Highlights

* 2.0 Megapixel Camera Shoots Print-quality Photos With Expandable Memory
* Advanced Bluetooth Wireless Technology Supports Streaming Stereo Music
* Built-in GPS Receiver With Location-based Applications Like BlackBerry Maps
* Integrated Media Player Provides An Outstanding Music and Video-on-the-go Experience
* Large, Beautiful Color Display
* Powerful On-the-go Email Solution When Used With AT&T BlackBerry Add-on Plan Features
* Smallest, Smartest, Most Stylish Full QWERTY Keyboard BlackBerry Yet
* Voice-activated Dialing Lets You Dial The Phone With Just Your Voice

Messaging Features

* Mobile Web Browsing - Full HTML Web browsing, One-touch Access, BlackBerry Maps Support
* Multimedia Messaging - Yes, With Messaging or MEdia Add-on Rate Plan Feature
* Text Messaging (SMS) - Yes, Plus Group Messaging, With Messaging or MEdia Add-on Rate Plan Feature, Spell Checker
* Email Client - Amazing "Push" Real-time Email, Integrate w/ Up To 10 Accounts, VPN, POP3, IMAP, SMTP, Spell Checker
* Instant Messenger Built-in - Yes, BlackBerry Messenger Pre-loaded, Spell Checker

Personalization and Fun Features

* Polyphonic Ringtones - Yes
* MP3 Ringtones - Yes, MP3 Real Music Ringtones Supported, Downloadable
* Ringer Profiles - Yes
* Games - Yes, Downloadable Java Titles
* Customizable Graphics - Yes, Downloadable

Recommended Optional Plan Features

* AT&T Navigator - Yes
* AT&T BlackBerry Services - Yes

Technical Specifications

* Application Platform - Java
* Platform / Operating System - BlackBerry OS 4.2.2
* Data Download Speed - EDGE (Up to 144 Kbps)
* Network Compatibility - GSM 850, 900, 1800, 1900
* Compatible Carrier - AT&T
* Ringtone Types Supported - MP3, MIDI, AAC, AAC+, eAAC, WMA
* Internationally Compatible - Yes
* Expandable Memory Capacity - MicroSD Card Format Compatible
* Built-In Memory - 64MB
* Dimensions - 4.2 in x 2.4 in x 0.6 in
* Weight - 4.2 oz

What's In The Box With The Phone

* Additional Items Included - Battery, Wall Charger, USB Cable, Hands-Free Headset, User Guide

Nokia 8800 Gold Arte Cell Phone Handphone Nokia 8800 Gold Arte

2009-01-03T01:33:00.000-08:00

Specification Cell Phone Handphone Nokia 8800 Gold Arte Nokia 8800 Gold Arte Phone Nokia 8800 Gold Arte :
Cellular One Phones and Calling Plans
General 2G Network GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G Network UMTS 2100
Announced 2008, December
Status Coming soon
Size Dimensions 109 x 45.6 x 14.6 mm, 65 cc
Weight 150 g
Display Type OLED, 16M colors

Size 240 x 320 pixels, 2.0 inches
- Scratch-resistant glass
- Living wallpapers
- Downloadable wallpapers, screensavers
Ringtones Type Polyphonic (64 channels), MP3, video ringtones
Customization Download
Vibration Yes
Memory Phonebook 1000 entries, Photocall
Call records 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls
Card slot No
- 4 GB of user memory
Data GPRS Class 10 (4+1/3+2 slots), 32 - 48 kbps
HSCSD Yes
EDGE Class 10, 236.8 kbps
3G Yes, 384 kbps
WLAN No
Bluetooth Yes, v2.0
Infrared port No
USB Yes, microUSB OTG
Features Messaging SMS, MMS 1.2, Email, IM
Browser WAP 2.0/xHTML
Games Yes + Downloadable
Colors Gold
Camera 3.15 MP, 2048×1536 pixels, autofocus, video(VGA@15fps)
- 18K gold-plated body
- Java MIDP 2.1
- MP3/AAC/eAAC player
- Voice memo
- T9
- Calculator
- Built-in handsfree
- Turn-to-mute
Battery Standard battery, Li-Ion 1000 mAh (BL-4U)
Stand-by Up to 300 h
Talk time Up to 3 h 20 min

Make Your own iPhone Ringtones

2009-01-03T01:27:00.000-08:00

If the back of teen music magazines are to be trusted then we can safely assume that mobile phone ringtones are big business, and, if you were the new kid on the block selling mobile phones, like Apple, you'd be crazy not to charge a motza for these audio snippets.

This doesn't mean we should have to pay for them. After paying higher than average prices for iPhone contracts, are you really about to fork out more money for 15-second clips of your favorite songs? We don't think this is fair and to right this injustice we show you how to make your very own iPhone ringtones for free. All you'll need is an iPhone (of course), iTunes and a swag of MP3 files.

1. Open iTunes and select your favourite MP3 audio file.

2. Right-click (Cmd-click for Macs) on this file in your library to bring up the context menu.

3. Select Get Info. This will open a new dialogue box showing various details about the audio file. Select the Options tab.

4. Check the boxes next to both Start Time and Stop Time and enter the times you want your new ringtone to start and stop (the maximum length is 40 seconds) then click OK. This will return you to your music library.

5. Right-click (Cmd-click) on the same music file again and this time select Convert Selection to AAC. iTunes will process this briefly and insert the new ringtone-sized file under the original file in your library.

6. Right-click (Cmd-click) on the newly created file and select: "Show in Windows Explorer (or Finder on a Mac)"

A new dialogue box will open showing you the location of this file. Select the file and rename it, changing the file extension from ".m4a" to ".m4r". Windows will warn you that this change may make the file unstable, but continue anyway.

Back in iTunes, delete the ringtone file you've created from your library, then import the renamed ".m4r" file into your library. Connect your iPhone and sync your playlist. You may have to manually drag the .m4r file into the Ringtones section on your iPhone. With your iPhone synced this file is now ready to be used as a ringtone.

Originally posted on CNET Australia

Samsung S8300

2009-01-02T22:03:00.000-08:00

Samsung’s U900 Soul handset was first unveiled in February of this year, and has been available on the market since a few months after that. It seems Samsung has seen fit to create a successor of sorts to the U900 Soul - the S8300, which has recently been leaked.

It should start to be available on the market from around March of next year onwards. The rumoured specs of the device are as follows:

* Connectivity: GSM/UMTS/7.2 Mbps HSDPA
* Display: 2.8″ AMOLED technology, WQVGA resolution shows up to sixteen million colours
* Camera: 8 MP CCD lens, with autofocus
* Memory: 60 MB internal
* Extras: FM RDS Radio, GPS, Divx playback supported, Bluetoth 2.1 connectivity
* Dimensions: 12 mm thick

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Samsung Behold SGH-T919

2009-01-02T21:57:00.000-08:00

The TouchWiz interface invasion has finally reached T-Mobile Cell Phones who is receiving their first taste with the Samsung Behold. Samsung is intent on marketing their spiffy looking interface to win over consumers looking to make the jump into an easy to use touch phone. The device lives up to what our neighbors overseas were treated too earlier in the year. This TouchWiz non-smart phone variant packs a nice 5-megapixel camera with support for T-Mobile’s recently launched 3G service. Eye candy and transition effects are littered throughout the phone which will turn heads as you show off the Behold to others.

The package contains:
• Samsung Behold SGH-T919
• USB data cable
• 1GB microSD
• SD card adapter for microSD
• User Manuals
• Wired Stereo Headset
Design:

The Behold retains almost the same design elements we have found on other TouchWiz devices we have reviewed. Of all the other Samsung devices already released domestically, the Behold has the smallest form factor (4.1x2.1x0.5 inches) and reduces the screen size to 3 inches. The phone is constructed out of a hard plastic with the outline having a glossy look to it. We were surprised to see that Samsung used stainless steel back plating for the battery cover which supplements its overall durability.

Even though the overall screen size has been condensed, it still manages to retain a resolution of 240x400 pixels and 262k colors. You will be amazed how well different colors are beautifully recreated with text easily legible in direct sunlight. Pressing on the screen is accompanied with a vibration feedback to indicate something has been touched. You can zip through the various menus thanks to the precision of the device whenever it is touched. You will find the light sensor in the upper left side of the screen which adjusts the brightness to extend battery life. On the very top, you will find the sole speaker, which is used for everything from phone calls to speaker phone.

Just like the Eternity and Omnia CDMA, Samsung kept the buttons to a minimum of three physical ones which are slightly raised on the front. The send and end keys are found on the side with the middle one being used as the back/clear key. On the left side you will find the volume rocker and charging/USB port. Samsung did not go with the traditional mini or microUSB connection and decided to stick with their own proprietary port. This TouchWiz variant relies on using the same connection port to allow use of various headsets rather than a 3.5 or 2.5mm jack. You will also find the dedicated camera button on the bottom right side to quickly take photos while another one found towards the middle unlocks the device. If you’re worried about dropping or misplacing the Behold, you can tether it to yourself using the lanyard strap next to the camera button.
On the back you will find the 5-megapixel camera with a flash and self portrait mirror. The hard metallic battery cover slides off to reveal the battery compartment, SIM card slot, and microSD slot. Just like what we found on the Eternity, we are still baffled as to why manufacturers still insist on having users remove the back cover and battery just to install a mircoSD card.

You will find only the microphone on the bottom of the device.

Samsung Behold SGH-T919

2009-01-01T05:47:00.000-08:00

Samsung Behold SGH-T919
USB data cable
1GB microSD
SD card adapter for microSD
User Manuals
Wired Stereo Headset

Design:

The Behold retains almost the same design elements we have found on other TouchWiz devices we have reviewed. Of all the other Samsung devices already released domestically, the Behold has the smallest form factor (4.1x2.1x0.5 inches) and reduces the screen size to 3 inches. The phone is constructed out of a hard plastic with the outline having a glossy look to it. We were surprised to see that Samsung used stainless steel back plating for the battery cover which supplements its overall durability.

Even though the overall screen size has been condensed, it still manages to retain a resolution of 240x400 pixels and 262k colors. You will be amazed how well different colors are beautifully recreated with text easily legible in direct sunlight. Pressing on the screen is accompanied with a vibration feedback to indicate something has been touched. You can zip through the various menus thanks to the precision of the device whenever it is touched. You will find the light sensor in the upper left side of the screen which adjusts the brightness to extend battery life. On the very top, you will find the sole speaker, which is used for everything from phone calls to speaker phone.

Just like the Eternity and Omnia CDMA, Samsung kept the buttons to a minimum of three physical ones which are slightly raised on the front. The send and end keys are found on the side with the middle one being used as the back/clear key. On the left side you will find the volume rocker and charging/USB port. Samsung did not go with the traditional mini or microUSB connection and decided to stick with their own proprietary port. This TouchWiz variant relies on using the same connection port to allow use of various headsets rather than a 3.5 or 2.5mm jack. You will also find the dedicated camera button on the bottom right side to quickly take photos while another one found towards the middle unlocks the device. If you’re worried about dropping or misplacing the Behold, you can tether it to yourself using the lanyard strap next to the camera button.
On the back you will find the 5-megapixel camera with a flash and self portrait mirror. The hard metallic battery cover slides off to reveal the battery compartment, SIM card slot, and microSD slot. Just like what we found on the Eternity, we are still baffled as to why manufacturers still insist on having users remove the back cover and battery just to install a mircoSD card.

You will find only the microphone on the bottom of the device.

Sony Ericsson Xperia X1

2009-01-01T05:31:00.000-08:00

Windows Mobile has always been a powerful but clunky OS, but recently we’ve seen manufacturer efforts to clean it up and make it more user-friendly. Sony Ericsson has thus far stayed out of the WinMo realm, but with the Xperia X1 they are making a splash on both fronts. They have developed a new panel interface to match the X1’s svelte design. It has the rich feature set you’d expect from a high-end device, with many connectivity options and a 480x800 high resolution display. The question is, can it live up to the bar HTC has set with their Touch series?
Included in the box you’ll find:

Li-poly battery
AC Adapter
USB Cable
4GB microSDHC card
Stereo headphones
Extra stylus

Design:

The X1 is a very well designed device, with a large WVGA display and full QWERTY keyboard. It is constructed of brushed metal which leads to a very hefty weight of 5.1oz. It comes in both silver and black, our review unit was silver but we prefer the black finish personally. It is strikingly narrow, especially when compared to a similar device like the Touch Pro.

The narrowness leads to a good in-hand feel, though it is definitely on the heavy side. Still, the build quality is top notch and we are quite impressed with the hardware. The screen slides to the right to reveal a four row QWERTY, and it slides at an arc so that it is tilted slightly upwards when opened. The slide mechanism is fantastically smooth; it offers the perfect balance of resistance and sprint and sliding it is actually a pleasure.

The WVGA (480x800) screen is gorgeous, and measures in at 3.0”. Like all other Windows Mobile devices it is only 65K colors, but the increased pixel density mostly makes up for that. As you’d expect from such a high resolution panel videos looked great. It is a resistive touchscreen, and therefore can be used with a stylus or other non-bare finger object, and is very responsive.

The navigation keys sit below the display, and in true Sony fashion much attention has been paid to the styling. There is a square directional pad, and to either side triangular keys that come together to form an X. The soft keys are silver slivers, but raised so they are easy to press. The other keys - Send and Panel to the left and OK and End to the right- are a bit small but have good travel and a slight click so you know when they have been activated. In addition to being clickable, center of the d-pad is also touch sensitive and you can move up/down and left/right by swiping your finger across it. It doesn’t work within every application, and it’s easier to use side-to-side, but we liked the added navigation option.

Sony Ericsson is obviously going for the general consumer with the X1, and we think they have put together a very good design for it. The size is very good, and the screen excellent for multimedia applications. The narrowness makes it easier to hold, although it could be lighter. Fashion was an obvious influence in the design of the X1, and even the silver version is chic. The build quality is overall wonderful, and we are generally pleased with the design of the X1.

Samsung A767

2008-12-30T22:44:00.001-08:00

To round out T-Mobile Cell Phones and Calling Plans end-of-2008 blitz for textaholics, the Samsung A767 Propel is the cell phone carrier’s square quick-messaging slider with a full QWERTY keyboard and the crème de la crème of its entertainment features.
The Propel slides upward for access to its full keyboard. In addition to being a 3G phone for high-speed Internet access, the Propel also features an impressive battery with 5 hours of rated talk time.

All AT&T quick-messaging cell phones are compatible with the carrier’s messaging plans that offer 200, 1,500 and unlimited text, picture and video messaging for $5, $15 and $20 respectively.

Users of an AT&T FamilyTalk shared plan can purchase unlimited messaging for all lines for $30. See here for our full listing of all AT&T cell phone service plans.

Price

At $79.99, the Samsung Propel is priced around the same $100 range as AT&T’s three other quick-messaging cell phones (so long as you follow the cell phone carrier’s rules).

First, you must subscribe to a two-year AT&T service contract. If you don’t, add $150 to your Propel price for a no-commitment purchase. In addition, the $79.99 price assumes you’ve received your $50 AT&T mail-in rebate.

Feature List

# Full slide-out QWERTY keyboard
# 3G quad-band world phone for high-speed Internet access
# 1.3-megapixel camera with 4X zoom
# Live video capture and playback
# Music player
# MusicID to identify the songs you’re listening to
# Text messaging and instant messaging
# Video share with streaming video
# Mobile email
# Mobile Web
# Ringtones
# Graphics, wallpapers, backgrounds and custom menus and icons
# Calendar, alarm clock, personal organizer and address book
# Bluetooth short-range wireless (i.e. for a wireless headset)
# USB connectivity (i.e. for music transfers)
# Hands-free speakerphone
# 8 gigabytes of expandable microSD memory storage
# 2.2-inch screen with 172x220 resolution and 262,000 colors
# Predictive text for fast typing
# Backlit keys
# Available in red, green, blue and white with red
# One-year warranty if new or 90-day warranty if refurbished

Battery

While most cell phones today carry between 3 hours and 5 hours of rated talk time, the Samsung Propel sits at the top of that range with a 5-hour rated talk time. The Propel rates at up to 10 days of standby time when you’re not using your cell phone at all.

Size, Weight

The Propel measures 3.85 inches by 2.33 inches by 0.05 of an inch. Considering it features a full keyboard and meaty battery, the handset weighs in at a notably light 3.79 ounces.
Differentiation in the Marketplace

While there isn’t one feature in particular that stands out about the Samsung A767 Propel as a true market differentiator, its ultimate differentiation is in its total package and its ability to be a full-featured entertainment cell phone with a QWERTY keyboard priced under the $100 barrier.

Pantech Matrix C740 Profile: Unique Dual Slider

2008-12-30T22:34:00.000-08:00

While the Pantech Duo has taken the smartphone route, the quick-messaging Pantech Matrix C740 is a cell phone that packs the same dual-sliding, double-keypad design.

AT&T complemented the release of the Matrix at the end of 2008 with three other text-friendly cell phones: the AT&T Quickfire, Pantech Slate C530 and Samsung A767 Propel.

Along with its dual-sliding uniqueness, the perk of being a 3G world phone with high-speed data access and an impressive battery, the Matrix’s top sell is as a quick-messaging phone especially for text messaging-heavy users.

Price

While the Matrix starts out at the not-so-affordable price of $279.99 from AT&T on no-commitment pricing, adding a two-year service contract knocks the price down to $129.99.

You can limbo lower with a $50 mail-in AT&T rebate card down to $79.99.

Feature List

# 3G world phone with high-speed data access
# Predictive text for fast typing
# Backlit keys
# 1.3-megapixel camera
# Live video capture and playback
# Music player with customizable equalizer
# XM Satellite Radio for streaming radio
# MusicID to identify the songs you’re listening to
# Text messaging and instant messaging
# Mobile email
# Web browser
# Video share to share live streaming video
# Ringtones, games, graphics and wallpapers
# Answer tones to have your friends hear your favorite song when they call you
# Calendar, alarm clock and address book
# USB connectivity to transfer data through a USB cable
# Hands-free speakerphone
# Voice dialing and voice commands
# Bluetooth for short-range wireless (i.e. a wireless headset)
# Up to 32 gigabytes of expandable memory storage in microSD format
# 65,000-color display with 1280x960 pixel resolution

Battery

The Pantech Matrix packs a healthy battery that’s rated at up to 5 hours of talk time and up to 16 days of standby time

Size, Weight

The Matrix measures in at 4.02 inches by 1.97 of an inch by 0.78 of an inch. The handset weighs a heavy 4.66 ounces.

Cell Phone Service Carrier

The Pantech Maxtrix C740 is sold by AT&T.

Differentiation in the Marketplace

This handset’s prime differentiation is its dual-sliding, double-keypad design along with a longer-lasting battery and ability to be a 3G phone for a price that doesn’t break the bank.

Pantech Slate C530

2008-12-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

For some, cellphones are more for text messaging than talking. For those who subscribe to the textaholic camp, AT&T has a number of text messaging-friendly cell phones with the Pantech Slate C530 as one of its standouts.

AT&T claims that the Slate is the “world’s thinnest device”. AT&T complemented the release of the Pantech Slate at the end of 2008 with three other text-friendly cell phones: the AT&T Quickfire, Samsung A767 Propel and Pantech Matrix C740.
The Pantech Slate measures in at 0.39 of an inch thin.

The Sony Ericsson W350, by the way, claims to be the “thinnest flip phone available” today. By contrast, the Sony Ericsson W350 is 0.41 of an inch thin (or 10.5 millimeters).

As for the popularity of texting, studies say the majority of people have never texted before. For those who do, though, many are rabid texters.

A Nielsen study revealed that U.S. consumers now use their cell phones for text messaging more often than for talking. To make that statement, 50,000 people were queried who were thought to represent the average U.S. cell phone population.

The data, which was gathered in the second quarter of 2008, revealed that on average each user sends 357 texts a month versus 204 voice calls.

Price

Enter the Pantech Slate C530. Designed from the ground up to specifically target heavy textaholics, the price can come all the way down to a budget-priced $49.99 after a $50 AT&T mail-in rebate and a two-year service contract.

Without a two-year AT&T service contract or mail-in rebate, you’re looking at a not-so-affordable $249.99 at no-commitment pricing.

Feature List

Full QWERTY keyboard with predictive text for fast typing

1.3 megapixel camera with 2X zoom

Live video capture and playback

Text messaging and instant messaging

Mobile email

Web browser

Calendar, alarm clock and address book

Quad-band world phone

USB connectivity to transfer data through a USB cable

Hands-free speakerphone

20 megabytes of internal memory storage

Backlit keys

Available in black with royal blue

Bluetooth for short-range wireless (i.e. a wireless headset)

2.2-inch display with 260,000 colors and 176x220 pixel resolution

Battery

Beware the battery on the Pantech Slate C530. It only rates at up to 3 hours of talk time and up to 10 days of standby time (if you’re not using the handset at all).

Size, Weight

The Pantech Slate C530 measures in at 4.2 inches by 2.5 inches by a very thin 0.39 of an inch. The handset weighs 3.2 ounces.

Cell Phone Service Carrier

The Slate is sold by AT&T.

Differentiation in the Marketplace

This handset’s prime differentiation is its thinness and low price for a handset with a full keyboard.

Sony Ericsson G900

2008-12-29T23:03:00.000-08:00

After a couple of days of using the Sony Ericsson G900, I’m completely blown away by the great features of this “smartphone in a not-so smarthphone form factor” mobile phone. Sony Ericsson hit the sweetest spot on making this mobile phone a special smartphone catering to mobile users who are in need of a not so complicated, simple and yet powerful smartphone. In fact, with a 5MP camera to boot, the Sony Ericsson G900 can be more aptly categorized as an “all-around multimedia smartphone”. So, here’s our full review of the Sony Ericsson G900 (Red).

Hardware Features, Design and Specs

The Sony Ericsson G900 sports a slim form factor which reminds you of older models such as the T310 and the T600. The unit I have is a red and black design with textured grey lining on the side which adds to the classic appeal of the phone. Examining the right side of the phone you’d find the camera button on the lower part, the screen lock key on the middle and the volume control on the top most part of the side. While at the top is the power button. On the other side of the phone, you’d find the stylus which is tucked firmly in its slot. And a little lower is the USB or FastPort which with a LED indicator below which lights up in green when the phone is charging and red when the phone’s battery is running low. In the inner side, if you take out the battery cover, you’d find the memory stick micro slot.

At the upper back portion of the phone, you’d find the 5MP main camera with the Flash above it which also serves as a Flash light. The Sony Ericsson G900 also has a secondary camera which is located above the LCD screen. This is used for video calls. Below the main camera is a speaker which you can use when playing ringtone. You’d also notice a slightly protruding ridge below the speaker which is used to let the sound out even if the phone is lying on its back.

Going back to the front of the phone, we go now to the phone’s numeric keypad. The Sony Ericsson G900’s keypad features your usual mobile phone keypad. Above it is your usual “back” button on the right side of the navigational wheel, while on the left side is your usual “C” button. The phone’s navigational wheel is used for controlling all the phone’s functions especially if you’re not fond of using the phone’s touchscreen features. Above these two buttons are quick keys for messaging and opening the notes function.

Software Features

The Sony Ericsson G900’s main screen consists of the usual icons at the top of the screen representing connectivity options, signal strength indicator, battery meter, and the task manager icon. Below the screen the three basic functions, Calls, Menu and More. Directly above it are 5 icons which you can choose which of the functions you want displayed. You can navigate through these icons using the navigational wheel or by tapping on the screen using your fingers or the stylus. As a default setting the five icons displayed are My Shortcuts, Alarm, Reminders, Messages, Main Menu and Favorite Contacts.

To go to the Main Menu, simply push the button at the center of the navigational wheel or tap on the “Menu” icon on the screen. At the upper corner of the screen you’d find a quick arrow key that would bring you back to the dekstop screen. Again, you can navigate through the Menu using the navigational wheel or by simply tapping on the screen.

The G900’s Main Menu features a 3×3 grid of icons which is pretty much what other Sony Ericsson UIQ-based mobile phone.

One main difference of the G900 with other Sony Ericsson phone’s which utilizes the UIQ platform is the minimized treatment to the Task Manager. Whereas before the Task Manager has its own screen, tapping on the Task Manager icon would only pop out a small window containing some of the tasks which you can access.

The Sony Ericsson despite not being included in the Walkman phone series of Sony Ericsson also functions as a Walkman player with its own multimedia player menu and interface similar to other W-series phones of Sony Ericsson.

Conclusion

After a few days of using the Sony Ericsson G900, I am totally blown away by the simplicity of its approach to the smartphone functionality. The G900 is your typical mobile phone with voice and calling features. But what makes it different from the rest of the mobile phone crowd is the fact that it has other “smart” functions such as PDF viewer, mobile internet browsing, geo-tagging of photos, GPS, Wi-Fi, RSS Feeds reader and more.

But the best part is the fact that the Sony Ericsson G900 has all these features and yet won’t cost you too much as compared to other smartphones. I got my wife’s unit for around $287 only. What phone could possibly give you all those features for such a price?

The Sony Ericsson G900 is definitely an under-rated mobile phone with great features.

BlackBerry Curve 8350i

2008-12-29T22:56:00.000-08:00

Sprint has just launched the BlackBerry Curve 8350i smarthphone, RIM’s most advanced push-to-talk BlakcBerry smartphone to date. Utilizing the iDEN technology through the Nextel National Network, BlackBerry Curve 8350i users would have access to Nextel Direct Connect’s push-to-talk service with sub-second call set up. Combining push-to-talk capabilities and other advanced features, this phone would most likely appeal to both individual consumers and business customers which can also address the needs of other industries. The BlackBerry Curve 8350i is geared for customers who need instant convenient push-to-talk services in communicating with friends and family, fellow employees, customers and suppliers.

Among the key features of the BlackBerry Curve 8350i include, a built-in in Wi-Fi support for fast internet browsing and email attachment downloading, and a facility for setting up group conversations with up to 20 participants through Group Connect feature. The BlackBerry Curve 8350i also features a GPS-enabled solutions as well as access to thousands of other third party mobile applications, instant connections between users coming from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Pero through International Direct Connect, and the Talkgroup feature which connects groups of up to 200 people at once within the same local market in the same fleet.

Boasting of a slim and sleek black form factor and design, the BlackBerry Curve also features a full QWERTY keyboard, a convenient trackball with intuitive navigation and an internal antenna for a smooth, clean design.

Other details of its specs include, BlackBerry Device Software v4.6, push email, robust messagin capabilities, integrated GPS, media player, 2 megapixel camera with digital zoom, flash and video recording, DataViz documents to go for editing MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint files, speakerphone, expandable memory of up to 16GB using microSD/SDHC card slot, Bluetooth 2.0, stereo headset jack, and a removable/rechargeable 1400 mAH battery.

The BlackBerry Curve 8350i is available now online at Sprint.com for $149.99. It comes with a two-year service agreement, an $80 savings credit and a $100 mail-in rebate.

$149.99 with a two-year service agreement, an $80 instant savings credit and a $100 mail-in rebate. On January 11, it will be available in Sprint retail stores nationwide.

AT&T and Pantech Brings the C630 3G to the US Market

2008-12-29T22:51:00.000-08:00

Black Friday and Monday maybe over but that doesn’t mean that the gadget shopping spree is over as well. For those who missed on buying a mobile phone during those shopping holidays in the U.S. and are not keen on getting the iPhone, G1 or the Sony Ericsson Xperia may one to consider the Pantech C630 phone instead. Up for release on Dec. 12 through AT&T, the Pantech C630 boasts of rich mobile phone features packed in a small handset package.

Featuring 3G connectivity, GPS, music, chat and video functionality, the Pantech C630 is a candybar phone that would allow users to stay mobile with style. The Pantech C630’s small form-factor did not hinder Pantech to sprinkle the C630 with great and useful features that you wouldn’t think that a phone of such tiny form factor can actually have.

The Pantech C630 boasts of popular mobile phone features such as text, IM multimedia messaging, advance navigation with aGPS which gives turn-by-turn directions using AT&T navigator of course, support for various digital music formats, and fast mobile web browsing through 3G.

Physically, the Pantech C630 has a rubberized back-panel which won’t crack even if the phone accidentally fell off the ground. Other features of the Pantech C630 include, a mirrored screen, a small joystick pad and of course the keypad.

Other features of the Pantech C630 include, microSD support, 1.3 MP camera, AT&T video share capabilities, AT&T Mobile Music.

If by reading those description made made want to have the Pantech C630, it will be available under an AT&T Contract costing $39.

BlackBerry Pearl 8120

2008-12-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

Think of it as "Pearl 2.0". The new Pearl is small, super-light and sexy just like the original Pearl. The 8120, available on AT&T and T-Mobile adds several tweaks and improvements including WiFi, an easily accessible microSD card that's compatible with SDHC cards, a 2 megapixel camera that takes video and still shots, improved text prediction and a better web browser. Like all BlackBerry smartphones, the pearl 8120 does push email with aplomb and it features a SureType keyboard where two letters share a key. It's a quad band world GSM world phone with EDGE for data. The T-Mobile version supports their HotSpot @Home service.

Specs:

Display: 65K color color LCD, resolution: 240 x 260 pixels.

Battery: 900 mAh Lithium Ion rechargeable. Battery is user replaceable. Claimed talk time: 4 hours, claimed standby: up to 15 days. Battery model C-M2.

Performance: 312MHz XScale processor. 64 MB built-in flash ROM memory with ~17 megs free.

Size: 4.2” x 1.97” x 0.55”. Weight: 3.2 ounces.

Phone: GSM quad band world phone, 850/900/1800/1900MHz bands, locked to the carrier (you can use the phone anywhere in the world, but must use your carrier's SIM). EDGE for data. AT&T version supports PTT (Push to Talk).

Camera: 2.0MP camera with LED flash, can shoot still photos and video. Max photo resolution 1600 x 1200 pixels, with several smaller resolutions available. 5x digital zoom, full screen viewfinder. Can take video with audio at 240 x 180 and 176 x 144 with audio at ~15 fps (3GP format).

Audio: Built in speaker, mic and 3.5mm standard stereo headphone jack. Voice Recorder and Media player included for video/photo/music playback and ringtone management.

Networking: Integrated WiFi 802.11b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP stereo, headset/handsfree and serial port profiles. T-Mobile version supports UMA calling over WiFi (HotSpot @Home service).

Software: System software 4.3. BlackBerry push email client. BlackBerry IM client. VoiceSignal voice dialing software, media player. PIM apps include contacts, calendar, tasks and memo. Also Alarm clock, voice recorder, calculator, Password Keeper and BrickBreaker. TeleNav, XM Radio (requires subscription) and Music ID (requires subscription). BlackBerry Desktop software for PC included for syncing, software installation and media conversion. Mac users can download PocketMac for BlackBerry at no charge. T-Mobile version adds My Faves software, pre-installed IM Client, RepliGo (office document viewer), Asphalt 3 and Golden Tee Golf Mobile.

Expansion: 1 microSD card slot, supporting SDHC high capacity cards over 2 gigs.

In the Box: Phone, battery, charger, USB cable, stereo headset, slip case with belt clip, software CD and documentation.

Conclusion :

A nice update to the wildly popular Pearl that should extend the line's life another year. RIM fixed the niggles we had with the first version-- namely moving the microSD card slot out from under the battery, tweaking SureType prediction, enhancing the web browser and adding WiFi. We'd have loved a GPS inside but given the Pearl's very small size, there may well be a limit to how many features RIM can squeeze in. For those who aren't wed to full QWERTY keyboards and prefer a small, sexy device for serious messaging, the new Pearl is an excellent choice. It's fast, stable and easy to use. The multimedia features are growing up, and the once all-business BlackBerry can now ID songs, play XM Radio, act as in iPod stand-in and take quite good photos.

Pro: Great looks, incredibly light and quite small. Responsive and stable. The usual excellent push email is compelling if you're an email addict or messaging type. Bright and sharp display, excellent sound quality in call and for music playback through wired and Bluetooth stereo headphones. Has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack for music playback and the included headset is quite good too. Has WiFi, though the web browser isn't hugely faster when using WiFi (it probably helps XM Radio though). AT&T's BlackBerry Personal plan is reasonably priced at $35 for unlimited data and email.

Con: Battery life could be better. Media player doesn't handle higher quality encoded video easily. Still no 3G. SureType may be hard to adjust to if you've been a full-QWERTY keyboard phone user.

Price: $149 with 2 year contact after rebates from T-Mobile, $199 with 2 year contract after rebates from AT&T.

T-Mobile G1

2008-12-28T20:50:00.000-08:00

There's been quite a buzz about the world's first Google Android powered phone, the T-Mobile G1. Android is an open source phone operating system developed by Google, and the OS runs on the Linux 2.6 kernel with Java applications on top. Since the platform is open and customizable by manufacturers and carriers, we expect to see a wide variety of Android phones running the gamut from feature phone to smartphone. The G1 isn't quite your standard smartphone-- it's more like the SideKick grown up. There are smartphone elements: a serious HTML web browser, syncing (limited) and the ability to install 3rd party applications. However, there's no Office suite, no syncing with Outlook or Exchange and no support for VPN or corporate email running on Exchange or BlackBerry Enterprise Server.

Specs:

Display: Color TFT 3.2", 320 x 480 resolution capacitive touch screen that supports both portrait and landscape modes.

Battery: Lithium Ion rechargeable. Battery is user replaceable. 1150 mA. Claimed talk time: 5.8 hours on 3G and 6.76 hours on GSM.

Conclusion :

The T-Mobile is a good start for Google's first Android phone. While it might lack features like video recording, A2DP and a built-in video player, the core functions work well: phone, web and basic email. The G1 isn't a good fit for business users given its lack of desktop and Exchange syncing and its Gmail, POP3 and IMAP-only email support. But for the casual phone user who wants a good touch interface and more application expandability than a feature phone offers, the G1 is a good choice. It's not the multimedia maven that the iPhone is, but it does have copy and paste and you can add your own ringtones easily .

Pro: Responsive, easy to use, easy to download applications via the Android Market directly to the phone. Very good display, good camera photo quality and obviously excellent Gmail support.

Con: No 3.5mm headphone jack, can't shoot video, no A2DP, keyboard on brown model lacks contrast. On-board multimedia applications are weak other than the good mobile YouTube player. No desktop or Exchange syncing.

Price: $179 with 2 year contract

Performance: 528 MHz Qualcomm MSM7201A processor. 192 MB built-in RAM. 256 MB Flash ROM.

Size: 4.60 x 2.16 x 0.62 inches. Weight: 5.6 ounces.

Phone: GSM quad band with EDGE, dual band 3G HSDPA on the 1700/2100MHz bands. Up to 7.2 Mbps download with support for 2.0 Mbps HSUPA uploads. Sold SIM locked to T-Mobile.

GPS: Yes, internal GPS and can use tower triangulation as well.

Camera: 3.2 MP with autofocus lens.

Audio: Built in speaker, mic and HTC ExtUSB stereo headphone jack. Music player included. Ringtone formats supported: AC, AAC+, AMR-NB, MIDI, MP3, WMA, WMV.

Networking: Integrated WiFi 802.11b/g and Bluetooth 2.0 +EDR.

Software: Google Android operating system running on Linux 2.6 kernel (open source). Software included: alarm clock, calendar, contacts, g-mail application, e-mail application (POP3 and IMAP), music player, youtube player, web browser, Google Maps, Android Market, IM client, SMS client, MyFaves, Amazon MP3 store, calculator, voice dialing, photo viewer and settings.

Expansion: 1 microSD card slot, SDHC high capacity card compatible.

In the box: G1 phone, slip case, world charger, stereo earbud headset, strap, getting started

guide.

Nokia 5130 XpressMusic

2008-12-28T20:23:00.000-08:00

What do you need to do to make your competition's life tougher than ever? Not much, really – launch an adequately priced phone that will push the bottom line of its price-bracket down, so that everyone will have to readjust and play your game. Over at Nokia they have definitely done the homework and learned a couple of invaluable lessons from the past – with the financial crisis raging across the street and most manufacturers changing their primary focus to profit margins (except for Samsung), Nokia is about to trip them up. When Sony Ericsson and Motorola publicly announce their new market strategies, they should always be ready to deal with the consequences, which come along in the form of Nokia’s decently spec’d solutions with very affordable price tags scheduled for Q4 of 2008 and early 2009.

The Nokia 5130 gives a start to their new music-minded range and at the same time poses a serious challenge to all other phone makers aiming at this segment. The 5130’s main strength is its 90 Euro price tag coupled with a pretty big memory card found in the box. Offerings like this used to retail for 150 Euro and more; however, Nokia chimes in with a new set of rules that everyone else will have to play by, or leave. And there is no third option. Furthermore, the launch of the Nokia 5130 has already disturbed the plans of many marketing departments and broken many short-sighted forecasts, simply because the vast majority of its potential rivals slotted for early 2009 were positioned at 120-130 Euro price point. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what’s going to follow. Also, there is no use to deny that the cheapest XpressMusic handset to date is the second nail in Walkman’s coffin – as you probably remember, the Nokia 5800 was the first one. While offering superior music quality and comparable functionality, Nokia-branded solutions cost much less, which results in a huge competitive advantage.
The Nokia 5130 is positioned as a phone for those who are in the market for a decent music playing solution with an affordable price tag. All in all, it’s the cheapest solution of its kind to date with no alternatives whatsoever.

The Nokia 5130 comes in a choice of two colors, much like most other XpressMusic-branded phones – red and blue; although in either case the front fascia is decked out in black glossy plastic. The navigation button, along with the strip running along the sides, is color-keyed to the casing’s trim. The battery cover is another place where these two color schemes differ – it’s either dark blue or carmine respectively. To be frank, we were surprised by how well the 5130 XpressMusic was built – the back cover didn’t feel loose at all, and the casing didn’t squeak in the hand.

Sony Ericsson Z310i

2008-12-28T20:11:00.000-08:00

Formally Sony Ericsson Z610i is the first representative of so called “emotional products” made by this company, while the Z310i can be pointed out as the runner-up here. According to this approach, we could say that affordable, yet eye-candy Sony Ericsson-branded phones aimed at the mass market have been around for a little time. But taking a glance back at the past proves us to be wrong. The whole range of products with Z index onboard clearly demonstrates that. This line-up includes models with reasonable price and quite appealing designs. Basically, it is quite difficult to find any distinctions in the concepts of the Z610i and Z310i. The main differences can be found in design elements and settings. It also should be mentioned, that the junior model is in inferior position to the senior one in terms of screen, memory and so on, but many tiny, seemingly insignificant details creating emotional perception of the product give the Z310i a considerable image boost over its siblingю

Glass-like surfaces are becoming the major hype generators of the 2006-2007 seasons, since they get only onto such expensive products as Motorala KRZR, Sony Ericsson Z610i but also on those which come in at very affordable prices (Samsung E790 or Sony Ericsson Z310i, for instance). Of course, it is hard to deny that such surfaces get soiled in an eye-blink and act as finger-print magnets, but on the other hand the effect achieved by its use leaves behind all the drawbacks. Sony Ericsson Z310i comes in three different trims - Jet Set Black, Blush Bronze and Lush Pink, which all look really smooth and stylish. There is no reason to conceal that the Z line-up mostly appeals to women, especially models with 2xx and 3xx indexes and this very phone is not an exception. Only black colour of shell can be used by the stronger sex, all the other colours are for women only, no about that. Each trim sports glass finishing only for the front plate and the battery cover, whereas other parts of shell are made of milk-white plastic.

This time around, Sony Ericsson has shown remarkable generosity and has not saved a coin on the plastic and its quality. The 2mm thickness of the sides is basically too much for a modern phone. You can go and see it for yourself by detaching the battery cover. Having equipped the model with such bulky layer of plastic the company is targeting to make the phone less vulnerable to the damages in the case of falling down.

KDDI W51T – a 3-megaixel camera and a rotating display

2008-12-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

Here comes another product by the Japanese operator produced by Toshiba. KDDI W51T is a stylish clamshell with the rotating display, which enables you to snap and view photos more comfortably. Besides there is a 3-megapixel camera.

Its internal display has a 2.6” diagonal, QVGA resolution, 262K colors. The external OLED display is a monochrome one, 96x39 pixels, 0.8” diagonal. It is designed to display service info, for example, on the network signal level and incoming SMS. There is an expansion slot for microSD cards.

Measuring 51x103x21 mm it weighs 142 g. Battery life in CDMA 1X networks makes up about 290 hours standby and 220 minutes in the talk mode. The model is available in 3 color solutions.

Panasonic P703iμ – another slimmest 3G phone

2008-12-28T19:48:00.000-08:00

Another FOMA phone of the 703-series has been introduced by NTT DoCoMo – the P703iμ by Panasonic. Like the N703iμ it is the slimmest W-CDMA clamshell phone (11.4 mm).

The filling of the P703iμ (screen savers, melodies, menu design) was designed by the London designer’s group TOMATO. The shell is made of stainless steel, so the phone looks luxurious.

The short technical specs of the FOMA P703iμ:

Dimensions: 103x49x11.4 mm
Weight: 98 g
Main display: 2.2”, 240x320 pixels, TFT, 260K colors
External display: some 0.4” diagonal, 56x12 pixels, monochrome (STN)
External memory: microSD storage cards
External camera: 1.3-megapixel, CMOS
Internal camera: 110 kpixel, CMOS
SD audio player.

KDDI A5523T- cellphone for kids

2008-12-28T19:40:00.000-08:00

The Japanese operator KDDI has introduced a mobile phone designed for kids. Parents have the opportunity to control the moves and the current position of their kids. The A5523T produced by Toshiba is made in the clamshell form. The phone features less colorful design compared to other phones for the kids.

Technical specs of the A5523T :

Dimensions: 50x97x20 mm
Weight: 114 g.
Main display: 2.4”, 240x320 pixels
External display: 0.8”, 39x96 pixels
Camera: 1.3-megapixel (effective)
Memory for data: 30 MB, microSD cards
Remote auto blocking
IrDA port, remote control function for home electronics
Sound: 128-tones polyphony
EZ FM service (FM radio and alert on program start)

BlackBerry Pearl 8110 BLACK GREY WITH GPS(VODAPHONE/T-MOBILE/AT&T/ORANGE unlocked)

2008-12-28T19:25:00.000-08:00

PRODUCT INFORMATION:

The BlackBerry® Pearl™ 8110 smartphone is designed to help you do everything you want with your life. It comes complete with advanced phone features, multimedia, digital camera, video recording, built-in GPS* and expandable memory.And it offers the full BlackBerry® experience—email, browser, text messaging (SMS and MMS), instant messaging, organizer applications and more. Small, smart and stylish.

COMPATIBILITY:

* AT&T Wireless (Cingular)
* Cingular
* T-Mobile
* Asian & European Carriers
* Cellular One
* Unionn Wireless
* NEP wireless
* Longline wireless
* iWireless
* Indigo wireless
* Farmers wireless
* Unicell
* Edge wireless
* Cincinnati bell wireless
* Quantum Wireless
* SunCom Wireless Holdings Inc
* Centennial Wireless
* Wireless Alliance

Spesification :

General	Bar Form
Camera	2+ Megapixel Camera
Memory	microSD (TransFlash)
Display	LCD (Color)
Ringtones	MP3 Ringtones
	Polyphonic Ringtones
Data	A2DP
	Bluetooth
	Data-Capable
	Slot for Memory Card
Features	Alarm
	Antenna Internal
	Calculator
	Calendar
	E-Mail Client
	Games
	GPS / Location
	High-Speed Data EGPRS (EDGE)
	High-Speed Data GPRS
	Java (J2ME)
	MP3 Player
	Picture ID
	Picture Messaging
	Vibrate
	Video Capture
	Voice Memo

Panasonic VS7 Unlocked

2008-12-28T19:15:00.000-08:00

The VS series of handsets (the VS 7 and VS 3) are slim, stylish mobiles that have megapixel cameras and X-Changeable Covers with matching content. They share a lot of things in common such as the same slim design, clamshells which open with the mere press of a button. The VS 7 however has a higher end camera of 2 Megapixels and a display which is larger (2.5 inches) in this case. Its 2.5 inch display will have capability to show approximately 16 Million colors and Panasonic says that with the phone’s advanced LCD software processing, you can enjoy remarkably high resolution images. (Enhanced to approximately 16 million colours) Shades of human skin, for example, look strikingly real. The LCD software may as well be the only difference as the difference between 256,000 and 16 million is not going to make easily noticable.

Spesification :


General	Clamshell Form (Flip)	Yes

Camera	2+ Megapixel Camera	Yes

Display	LCD (Color)	Yes

Ringtones	MP3 Ringtones	No
	Polyphonic Ringtones	Yes

Data	A2DP	No
	Bluetooth	Yes
	Data-Capable	No
	Infrared (IR)	Yes
	Slot for Memory Card	No
	Wi-Fi	No

Features	Alarm	Yes
	Antenna Internal	Yes
	Antenna Stub	No
	Blackberry	No
	Calculator	Yes
	Calendar	Yes
	Changeable Faceplates	No
	E-Mail Client	No
	Extendable Antenna	No
	Face Detection	No
	Flashlight	No
	FM Radio	No
	Games	Yes
	GPS / Location	No
	High-Speed Data 1xRTT	No
	High-Speed Data EGPRS (EDGE)	No
	High-Speed Data Ev-Do	No
	High-Speed Data GPRS	Yes
	High-Speed Data WCDMA (UMTS)	No
	High-Speed Data WiDEN	No
	Java (J2ME)	Yes
	MP3 Player	Yes
	Picture ID	Yes
	Picture Messaging	Yes
	Platform Palm OS	No
	Platform Series (Symbian)	No
	Platform UIQ (Symbian)	No
	Platform Windows Mobile for Pocket PCs	No
	Platform Windows Mobile for Smartphones	No
	Push-To-Talk	No
	Speaker Phone	No
	Touch Screen	No
	Vibrate	Yes
	Video Calling	No
	Video Capture	Yes
	Voice Dialing	No
	Voice Memo	No
	XM Radio	No

Panasonic GD 88 Unlocked

2008-12-28T19:09:00.000-08:00

Panasonic GD88 new line of Tri-Band GSM GPRS phones to hit the market. This phone incorporates a state of the art color TFT display and built-in digital camera. This phone is sure to turn heads and be the center of any conversation.

Product information :

General	Clamshell Form (Flip)
Camera	VGA Camera
	Polyphonic Ringtones
	Infrared (IR)
Features	Alarm
	Calculator
	Calendar
	Games
	High-Speed Data GPRS
	Speaker Phone
	Vibrate
	Voice Dialing
	Voice Memo

Nokia 5610 XpressMusic Phone (T-Mobile)

2008-12-27T07:08:00.000-08:00

The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic comes ready to rock with an iconic Music Slider key making music easy to access with a flick of the thumb. Aluminum side panels accent the all-black high gloss finish and large 2.2-inch, 16 million color display of the Nokia 5610 XpressMusic. The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic offers crystal clear sound and up to 22 hours of music playback and memory with capacity for 3,000 songs on an optional 4 GB microSD card. More than just a phone and music player, the Nokia 5610 XpressMusic features a high-quality 3.2-megapixel camera with autofocus and dual LED flash. The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic uses 3G technology, making downloads, web-browsing and video calls faster and easier.

LG Chocolate 3 Phone (Verizon Wireless)

2008-12-27T06:46:00.000-08:00

Released for Verizon Wireless, the LG Chocolate 3 trades in its slider form factor for a slim clamshell. Designed with a control wheel on the outside, the handheld provides an integrated music player and FM transmitter to play music through a car stereo. Consumers can listen through dual speakers or Bluetooth stereo headphones. An integrated 2.0-megapixel camera snaps photos and video. Download from over 3 million songs via VCAST Music through high-speed 3G connectivity. The Chocolate 3 has 1GB of storage space and the ability to expandable memory with 8GB microSD cards.

LG Chocolate 3 Features

Built-in music player with dedicated music key and preset sound effect equalizer
Integrated 2.0-megapixel camera and camcorder with Image editor to zoom, rotate and crop images, customizable brightness, white balance, shutter sound, night, photometry, self-timer and color effects: normal, negative, aqua, sepia, black and white
VZ Navigator to get visual and audible directions to thousands of destinations, locate businesses and other points of interest

Motorola VE 240

2008-12-27T04:21:00.000-08:00

This Motorolla CDMA Cellphone was announced by 14 Nov 2008 but nowadays could be your choice because the simple operation guide manual.

Specification :

Network Type CDMA (800/1700/1900 MHz)
Data CDMA2000 1xRTT
Size Dimensions 4.4 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches (112 x 45 x 15 mm)
Weight 3.3 oz (94 g)
Battery Type Li - Ion, 910 mAh
Talk 4.5 hours (270 mins) of Talk time

Motorola VE 240

Standby 345 hours (14 days) of Stand-by time
Main Display Resolution 128 x 128 pixels
Type 65 536 colors, CSTN
Multimedia Music Player MP3, AAC, AAC+, AMR, MIDI
Memory Memory Slot microSD
Built-in 25 MB
Connectivity USB miniUSB
Bluetooth 2.0, Stereo Bluetooth
Connectors HeadSet Jack (2.5mm)
Other Features PhoneBook Caller groups supported, 500 -names capacity, Multiple Numbers Per Contact, Picture ID, Ring ID
PIM Alarm, Calendar, Calculator, World Clock, Notepad
Voice Dialing, Commands, Recording, Speaker Phone
Email Yes
GPS Yes

Motorola i 776 Cellphone

2008-12-27T04:17:00.000-08:00

Specification :

Network Type iDEN (800/900 MHz)
Size Dimensions 3.4 x 1.8 x 0.8 inches (86 x 46 x 20 mm) Size Compare
Weight 3.6 oz (101 g)
Battery Type Li - Ion, 1130 mAh
Talk 3.41 hours (205 mins) of Talk time

Standby 100 hours (4 days) of Stand-by time
Main Display Resolution 128 x 160 pixels
Type 65 536 colors, TFT
Additional Display Resolution
Type Color
Colors 65 536
Camera Resolution 0.3 megapixels VGA Resolution
Connectivity USB microUSB
Bluetooth 1.2
Connectors HeadSet Jack (2.5mm)
Other Features PhoneBook Caller groups supported, 600 -names capacity, Multiple Numbers Per Contact, Ring ID
PIM Calendar
Voice Dialing, Commands, Recording, Speaker Phone, Push-to-Talk
GPS Yes
FCC Approved Yes

Handphone Sony Ericsson SE Z555

2008-12-27T04:14:00.000-08:00

Specification :

Announced Date 7 Jan 2008
Network Type GSM America bound phone, supporting both frequencies and one European/Asian for roaming (850/1800/1900 MHz)
Other version supports GSM 900/1800/1900 MHz
Data GPRS/EDGE
Size Dimensions 3.7 x 1.9 x 0.7 inches (95 x 49 x 17 mm) Size Compare
Weight 3.4 oz (95 g)
Battery Type Li - Ion, 920 mAh
Talk 9 hours (540 mins) of Talk time
Standby 307 hours (13 days) of Stand-by time
Main Display Resolution 176 x 220 pixels
Type 262 144 colors, TFT

Additional Display Resolution 128 x 36 pixels
Type Greyscale, OLED
Camera Resolution 1.3 megapixels Resolution
Video Yes
Features Digital zoom
Multimedia Video Playback Media Player
Music Player MP3, AAC
FM Radio FM Radio with RDS
Memory Memory Slot Memory Stick Micro (M2)
Built-in 12 MB
Input Predictive Text Input Yes
Connectivity Internet WAP 2.0, XHTML, Access NetFront 3.3 Browser; RSS Feeds
USB Yes
Bluetooth 2.0
Connectors Proprietary
Other Features PhoneBook Caller groups supported, Multiple Numbers Per Contact, Picture ID, Ring ID
PIM Alarm, Calendar, Calculator, TO-DO, Stopwatch, Timer, Notes
Voice Recording, Speaker Phone
Email IMAP/POP3/SMTP

Sony Ericson C902 Cyber Touch

2008-12-26T05:14:00.000-08:00

Full steam into the megapixel chase, Sony Ericsson C902 is trying to show off its best before the 8 megapixel monsters start stealing the show. The Cyber-shot pedigree, touch-controlled camera and metal outfit are true predator stuff and now that we have a retail unit in our hands it's time to revisit our pre-release preview of the device and see if there are any chinks in its armor that may turn predator to prey.

Key features:

5 MP autofocus camera with unique active lens cover and touch controls
Slim and stylish metal case
Smile detection, image stabilizer, geo-tagging (via cell-ID)
Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE and HSDPA (3.6 Mb)
Media Center, Smart search, Manage Messages, extended TrackID
Enhanced user interface
Scratch resistant 2" TFT 256K colors display
FM radio with RDS
Bluetooth (with A2DP)
Basic multi-tasking support
Smart dialing
160 MB built-in memory, M2 card support

Main disadvantages:

Smallish screen
Images suffer excessive sharpening and purple fringing
Poor video recording capabilities
Slide-up lens cover collects massive amounts of dust
No office document viewer

Nokia N6220 Clasic

2008-12-26T05:05:00.000-08:00

We can call the Nokia 6220 Clasic an attempt to regain some 5 megapixel ground. The compact smartphone carries some serious imaging power. Xenon flash, active lens cover, VGA video @ 30 fps and TV-out do sound exciting, don't they? It would've been all too easy but that's not all Nokia 6220 classic is about. One of the most compact bodies in the Symbian realm squeezes in GPS, HSDPA and Feature Pack 2 for a truly ornate UI. The new classic sure has a range of skills, now let's see if it has the guts for the job.

Key features

* 2.2" 16M-color display of QVGA resolution
* Symbian 9.3 OS, S60 3.2 UI
* ARM 11 369 MHz CPU and 128 MB of RAM
* 5 megapixel camera with active lens cover and xenon flash
* 3G with HSDPA support
* Quad-band GSM support
* Built-in GPS with A-GPS support
* Compact and lightweight body
* 120 MB user memory
* microSD card slot, up to 8GB cards supported
* FM radio with RDS
* TV-out
* Document viewer
* USB and Bluetooth v2.0
* More visual enhancements to the UI than any other S60 handset we've seen
* Nokia Maps comes with three months free turn-by-turn navigation license

Main disadvantages

* No Wi-Fi
* Xenon flash placed under the lens
* Uncomfortable shutter key
* Cheap-looking keypad, and we mean dirty cheap
* Display could have been bigger

Nokia 6220 classic is a Symbian all-rounder, which takes photography seriously. The xenon flash, the active lens cover and the best implementation of the S60 user interface are possibly its strongest selling points. The inexpensive price tag makes it really hard to compete with (around 260 euro or 380 US dollars at the time of writing).

Virtually no device with similar features is able to beat the 6220 classic offer. There is one weak spot though, so the competition isn't utterly disheartened: the lack of Wi-Fi can break a deal or two even if everything else seems perfect.

Samsung B2700

2008-12-26T04:56:00.000-08:00

Samsung may be flying high on INNOV8 but they sure have at least a toe on the ground. Just recently they spilled the low-to-mid-end bag, so we don't forget a flagship is only as good as the fleet behind it. No handset in the handful they just recently dropped is likely to top the food chain but what a massive landing it was.

Key features:

* Shock, splash and dust resistant (IP54 certified)
* Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE phone, UMTS 2100 MHz
* Very nice and responsive user interface
* 2 MP camera, secondary video call camera
* 1.9" 256K-color TFT display, 176 x 220 pixels
* Flashlight, Compass, Altimeter, Pedometer
* Good MP3 player, MPEG4/3gp video player
* FM radio with RDS
* SMS/MMS/E-mail/RSS Reader
* Bluetooth and USB v2.0
* 30 MB flash memory, microSD card slot
* Comfortable keypad, strong and even backlight
* Very loud speakerphone
* Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery

Main disadvantages:

* Display could've used a higher resolution
* No autofocus in camera
* Poor video recording

Nokia N79

2008-12-26T04:52:00.000-08:00

The bar-shaped Nokia N79 has a bit more modest feature list but has better (or so it seems to us) looks and a more compact boy. It still supports all the four GSM bands but the 3G works only on the 900 and 2100 MHz bands. The display on the N79 is a 2.4" QVGA TFT unit, capable of showing up to 16M colors. Wi-Fi, GPS and a 5 megapixel camera are some of its other more important features.

Nokia N79 also sports FM radio and FM transmitter, allowing you to broadcast your favorite tracks within a short range over radio waves.

Nokia N79, much like the N85, features the touch sensitive Navi wheel navigation solution which we first came to know in the Nokia N81. The N79 also has a 3.5mm audio jack and will ship with a 4GB memory card.

A novel feature of the Nokia N79 is its easily customizable exterior (and interior). The handset will come with two extra Xpress-on covers in the retail package and additional ones can also be purchased. When you put a new back cover on, the N79 recognizes its color and can automatically change the interface theme color to match it.

Nokia N85

2008-12-26T04:46:00.000-08:00

The Nokia N85 sports a dual slide design much like the Nokia N95, but the controversial design takes after the Nokia N81. The most novel feature seems the 2.6-inch 16M color OLED display - it's the biggest OLED display to be integrated in a mobile phone yet. Swapping the TFT technology has its pros and cons and will cover tem duly in a short while.

A multimedia device to the bone, the Nokia N85 packs dedicated multimedia keys, accelerometer for automatic screen rotation, stereo Bluetooth, 3.5mm audio jack, TV-out, stereo FM radio with RDS and a FM transmitter. It will even ship with a 8GB microSD card to store your multimedia files. The multimedia keys also serve the double purpose of gaming keys in order to offer an excellent N-gage gaming experience.

A 5 megapixel camera with autofocus, dual-LED flash and autofocus assist light is mounted at the back of the device and that deserves attention too. It can manage the sweet VGA video recording at up to 30 fps.

Nokia N85 will be available in black and copper in October 2008 for an estimated retail price of 450 euro (660 US dollars) before taxes or subsides.

Samsung i7110

2008-12-26T02:35:00.000-08:00

Hardware fanatics, listen up - Samsung has yet another model in the i-Series, with the i7110 being the latest candybar cellphone to appear under the spotlight. I must say it looks like an offspring between a standard Sony Ericsson cellphone and a Nokia N82.
Arriving with a sleek design, this Symbian S60-based phone specs wise, you’re looking at a luscious 2.6-inch AMOLED display, FM radio/transmitter, GPS navigation (with geotagging functionality), an accelerometer (popularized by Apple iPhone), “3D graphics,” Bluetooth 2.0, HSDPA and WiFi. Additionally, it packs a 5-megapixel camera (with Auto Focus and a LED flash), robust multimedia player (with DivX support), 50MB of internal memory, a microSDHC slot, video recording, 11-hours of talk time and a 12.9-millimeter thin body.

LG KF700

2008-12-26T02:28:00.000-08:00

The LG KF700 (codenamed Virgo) is among the latest LG full touch handsets. Besides being one of the most affordable one among those, it stands out with multiple control-and-navigation methods. LG KF700 puts together a 3" touchscreen display, a slide-out standard keypad and a side mounted scroll wheel with an adjacent OK key. The neat and solid KF700 blends together elegance and great web surfing to broaden its appeal beyond the fashion-savvy.

Key features

* Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE plus HSDPA 7.2Mbps
* 3 megapixel autofocus camera
* Secondary camera for video calls
* 3" 262K-color TFT touchscreen display with a 240x480 pixel resolution
* Touch feedback (haptics)
* FM radio
* Stereo Bluetooth
* 176MB internal memory, microSD card slot (hot-swap)
* Sliding hardware keypad
* Side scroll wheel with an OK key
* Retail headset has a standard 3.5mm audio jack
* Office document viewer
* Multi-tasking support with a task manager
* Pleasing touch-optimized web browser
* Google Maps pre-installed

Main disadvantages

* The side scroll wheel seems redundant
* Image quality is only average
* Video recording maxes out at QVGA@15fps
* FM radio has no RDS
* Music player lacks equalizer settings
* Web browser doesn't have flash support
* No screen auto rotation

Nokia E-66

2008-12-26T02:19:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since mobile phones became an essential business tool and a huge number of devices are being specially designed for the purpose (not even mentioning the camera-free versions of some handsets). Nokia Eseries is almost a default name that comes to mind. Following a comprehensive review of Nokia E71, we are set to explore the other hot Eseries gadget. It's Nokia E66 with a priority appointment in our office. Refreshments served upon conclusion.
Key features:

* Quad-band GSM support
* 3G with HSDPA 3.6Mbps
* 2.4" 16M-color display of QVGA resolution
* Shortcut keys mean business
* Symbian 9.2 OS, S60 UI with FP1 (topped with some FP2 goodies)
* Accelerometer sensor for screen auto-rotation
* 369 MHz ARM 11 CPU and 128 MB of SDRAM
* Wi-Fi
* Built-in GPS receiver, A-GPS
* 3 megapixel auto focus camera with LED flash
* 110 MB of internal memory, microSD expansion, ships with a 2GB card
* Comfortable keypad
* Compact body (62.6cc only)
* Stainless steel casing
* Standard 2.5mm audio jack
* Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP
* microUSB v2.0
* FM radio
* Infrared port
* Great battery life
* Good retail package
* Nokia Maps comes with three months free turn-by-turn navigation license

Main disadvantages:

* Average camera performance
* Video recording maxes out at QVGA@15fps
* No camera geotagging
* Cheap-looking power key
* Office document editing not available
* No RDS in radio

Nokia 5220 XpressMusic

2008-12-26T01:59:00.000-08:00

Nokia 5220 XpressMusic is set to play for it all in the mass market segment. A bunch of music niceties, slim waistline and novel design are crowned with the XpressMusic logo, and that's enough of a commitment to cool sonic experience. The gentle price tag only makes things all the sweeter.

But the new XpressMusic mid-ranger needs to make an epic run. It follows in the wake of Nokia 5310, which the house claims to be the best selling music phone in the world with more than 10 million units sold globally. So, no wonder we start this review with a bag full of mixed feelings.

Nokia 5220 is priced quite close to Nokia 5310 and, while obviously positioned below (model designation), it manages to outperform it in quite a few tasks. Well then, besides exploring the newcomer today, we will also be trying to resolve a rather challenging XpressMusic dilemma for all music-loving fans out there.

Key features

* 10.6 mm slim and lightweight body
* Exciting asymmetrical design
* Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE support
* S40 5th edition user interface, FP1
* 2" 256K-color display of QVGA resolution
* Ambient light sensor
* Hot-swappable microSD card slot, 512MB included
* Snappy 2 megapixel camera (with NIPS low light optimization)
* Decent keypad
* Nokia Maps
* Yahoo! integration
* Nice set of enjoyable games

Music features:

* Dedicated music keys
* Music light effects
* Standard 3.5 mm audio jack
* Dedicated music chip
* Stereo loudspeakers
* Stereo Bluetooth (A2DP)
* Stereo FM radio with RDS
* Large capacity battery

Main disadvantages

* Cheapo plastic build
* Tri-band only
* No 3G support
* No smart dialing
* No multi-tasking
* No office document viewer
* QCIF video recording (only good for MMS)