Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)Note: I am transitioning from using the Sony Ericsson P910i smartphone so my review is based on how well the w710i's features work in comparison. I purchased this because I go to remote areas and the P910i needs heavy bandwidth in order for the phone to function. My son's Z500 would work in areas my p910i would not. Review is based on 1 week of usage.
I've also purchased the z710i for my son and will review that one later.
Strengths:
*Improved picture quality of 2.0 megapixels vs. 1.3
*Excellent voice quality with headsets (wired or bluetooth)
*Text, SMS, MMS
*shortcut buttons to quickly use 4 of your most used features
*Battery life is outstanding
*mp3 player
*RSS reader
*Bluetooth synchronization of files
*Ability to set up phone in non-english languages
*Ability to buy an international SIM card to avoid extra fees
*Sync cord charges the battery
*Can double as a modem via bluetooth or usb cable (if you don't have unlimited internet package be very careful as they charge big $$$)
*FM radio - reception is so-so in the downtown area
*standard or flight mode option to use while on airplane
*Edge technology - my p10i did not have this. I can download email extremely quickly now!!!
*step counter & calories expended
Neutral:
*The international charger with an adapter for US outlets. It is very wobbly in the outlet. I'll invest in a US version.
*Inability to sync with any computer using Windows Vista (I'm sure a workaround is coming)
*I haven't used the armband yet but it may improve the stepcounter's accuracy.
*Others have warned about holdling the phone and interferring with the antenna, I haven't had a problem with this.
*Over-the-ear earbuds don't fall out!
Weaknesses:
*Since I have other Sony phones, I am disappointed that they have changed the shape of the connection for the sync and charger. Translation, you can no longer use the current chargers of the previous generation phones.
*There is no way to charge the phone and use the wired headset. You either listen to the radio or charge the phone.
* You can not use the standard over-the-counter headsets because there is no outlet for it.
*Need to switch settings to view more than one email account
*Yet another memory card format (micro)another adapter needed
*Memory card only 512mb (can purchase 1 or 2gb)
*picture caller id only works after you open the phone (edit March 21,2007 - if you have answer on open set)I purchased my W710i from an internet company for $254.00 and it was shipped directly from Hong Kong in 2 business days. I'm unsure if I can provide their name here.
Overall: Sony has always produced quality products. I love this phone and it is a very good comparison to a SmartPhone. I do miss using my styllus. If you don't need the bells and whistles of a smartphone, go for the Z710i as it is a bit cheaper but a great contender.If I could rate it more than 5 stars, I would even though I haven't tried all of the features of this phone. Buy it without hesitation!
ADDENDUM March 5, 2007
I dropped the phone on a tiled bathroom floor. When it hit, the clip, battery cover and battery scattered in different directions on the floor. Amazingly, the phone still operates. The damage is a barely noticeable mark on the upper left of the phone. A mark like that could happen in my purse!
I am really impressed now but hope I never do that again!
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Sony Ericsson W710i Unlocked Cell Phone with 2 MP Camera, MP3/Video Player, Memory Stick Micro Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Performance Graphite)The W710i Walkman phone is built for an active lifestyle. Whether you prefer to work your body outdoors or indoors the W710i is the perfect music player, workout analyst, and cell phone companion during exercise. With a Walkman music player and styling, and key features like Bluetooth connectivity, a 2.0 megapixel camera, an internal antenna, a memory card slot, workout recording applications, and a speakerphone, the W710i is a stylish and versatile clamshell mobile phone.
Design The W710i's 262,144-color, 176 x 220 display is housed under the front cover while the outside sports a supplementary 128 x 128monochrome display that can display time, call information, battery and signal strength, and more. The 2.0 megapixel camera is housed on the front cover as well. Because the W710i uses an internal antenna, there's nothing to snag or break off, while a five-way button just above the dial pad is used to control most of the phone's menus and features. Up/down buttons on the left side of the phone can be used for quick volume control and menu navigation. USB data and charging ports, as well as a headset port, are located on the phone's bottom edge. And because the W710i's front and rear faceplates are changeable with Sony-Ericsson Style-Up covers, you can dress it up to suit your style. The design also incorporates a unique carry handle on the top of the phone.
Calling Features The W710i's phone book can hold up to 1000 contacts with multiple entries per contact. A call list remembers your most recent missed, received and dialed calls. The phone's voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. The phone also features a speakerphone for easy, hands-free talking. In addition to a vibrating alert, the phone supports polyphonic ringtones as well as MP3- and AAC-format ringers, allowing you to use portions of your favorite songs to alert you to incoming calls. There's even a bundled application that lets you mix your own ringtones with up to 16 tracks. Picture caller ID lets you assign a photo to specific callers. Similarly, a ringer ID lets you assign ringtones to callers. Lastly, users of Bluetooth headsets will find perfect compatibility with the W710i's Bluetooth radio.
Fitness Applications The W710i comes with applications that help you record your athletic performance. Inside the W710i is a motion sensor. Based on the movements the sensor detects, the fitness application measures time, speed, and distance when you run. It also includes a step counter for walking. Your workout results are stored in your phone so you can monitor your progress. The W710i even has a calorie counter.
A convenient armband is also included in the W710i kit. Attach it to your phone, slap it around your arm, and you're ready to hit the track. To enjoy your music when you're working out, just simply choose a playlist or tune in to your favorite radio station with the FM radio.
Messaging, Internet, and Tools The W710i has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging. Support is built in for sending and receiving text, video, graphics and sound via messages. When used in combination with the phone's built-in camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. Instant messaging is also supported and the phone ships with a built-in email client.
Getting on the Internet is easy with the W710i, as it supports the GPRS protocol. When used the phone's USB or Bluetooth data capabilities, the phone can be used as a wireless modem for laptops and PDAs. T9 text entry, 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.
A number of handy software tools are bundled with the W710i including a voice memo recorder, a calculator, a calendar, and an alarm clock with a timer and stopwatch. Sony Ericsson Sync Station software lets you synchronize your Microsoft Outlook calendar, contacts, notes and tasks with your phone.
Imaging and Entertainment The W710i was designed for serious fun. The built-in 2.0 megapixel camera captures stills and video--and playback of video or still pictures is only limited to the memory card size. If you run out of room, don't worry--just drop another memory card into the w710i's built-in memory card slot. Picture effects and custom screensavers, backgrounds, and themes can be setup to fit your personality.
Java support is built into the W710i, making it a powerful gaming companion for both online and offline games. The W710i also sports an airplane mode feature, which allows you to safely use the non-wireless functions of a phone (such as music, games or organizer functions) on an airplane during flight.
Vital Statistics The Sony-Ericsson W710i weighs 3.56 ounces and measures 3.46 x 1.89 x 0.96 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 10 hours of digital talk time, and up to 350 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the GSM/GPRS 850/900/1800/1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.
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