HTC Ozone XV6175 Windows Phone, Black (Verizon Wireless) Review

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(More customer reviews)I've been waiting for the Tour since its early rumor days. I am already an addicted Blackberry user for my job. One thing I notice in general with cell phone reviews, is there is very little time spent commenting on the core function of a cell phone, that being a "Phone." I made my first call on the Tour and the recipient kept asking me to repeat myself. I didn't think anything of it. I made another call to a friend who said "Are you talking with a sock in your mouth?" Okay now I'm worried. I'm calling from the same chair where the day before I was using my old Motorola E815 and it was crystal clear. Finally I leave myself a voice mail. Literally I could not make out the words I said. Interestingly, the sound that I hear on my end is great so from my perception the call quality is excellent. I figured this has to be defective so I returned it for a replacement. It was exactly the same. I am also concerned that the replacement revealed inconsistent quality in the build of the phone. The battery door had a minor but detectable "jiggle" to it that conveys cheapness. The track ball on the second one seemed loose as if it were barely touching the rollers. A quick Google on the Tour Battery door revealed the loose battery door is a common complaint. In the end, I had to give up the Tour since nobody could hear me. One more thing because I know somebody is thinking this...no, my finger was not covering the microphone hole. I have a Curve 8330 I use every day for work, it is crystal clear.

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Boasting a simple design with a host of connectivity options, the easy-to-use HTC Ozone smartphone for Verizon Wireless is a great choice for both first-time smartphone users and savvy business professionals. In addition to accessing the reliable and fast Verizon Wireless voice and data network, the Ozone is also compatible with GSM networks outside the United States, giving you the option to make phone calls in 220 countries and to access email and Internet in any of the 175 countries where Verizon Wireless provides data roaming services.
With the power of the updated Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system, you'll stay easily connected to your business and personal data on the go with support for a wide variety of email accounts as well as the ability to edit Microsoft Office documents. You'll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. And with the optional Visual Voice Mail service, you'll be able to quickly and easily scroll through your messages and pick the ones you want to listen to.
The Ozone offers an ergonomically-designed QWERTY keyboard for fast and easy typing, a one-touch messaging key for quick connection to friends and family, and Wi-Fi connectivity for accessing email and the Internet from home, work or Wi-Fi hotspots when on the go. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth connectivity for handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, a 256 MB internal memory, MicroSD memory expansion to 16 GB, and up to 4.8 hours of talk time.
Dual Connectivity Perfect for the world-traveling professional, the HTC Ozone can connect to wireless networks from Europe to South America to Asia thanks to its quad-band GSM/EDGE/GPRS connectivity. It comes pre-installed with a SIM card, so customers who plan to travel abroad can activate global service at the time of purchase or by calling Verizon Wireless prior to leaving the U.S. (additional charges applicable).
When used at home here in the U.S., you'll connect to Verizon's 800/1900 MHz CDMA network, as well as its 1xEV-DO 3G high-speed data network--which offers download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.) But when you're traveling within a GSM network coverage area outside of the U.S. provided by Verizon Wireless' global roaming partners, the quad-band GSM-enabled Ozone provides easy voice connectivity while roaming the globe.
Verizon Wireless Services With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.
With Mobile Broadband Connect (subscription required), you can use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable--or open a Bluetooth connection--enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The tethered modem capability is ideal when you're traveling and need to use your notebook to check email, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with Mobile Broadband Connect, you won't have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.
With Visual Voice Mail, you can delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.
Verizon's Wireless Sync always-on email service (subscription required), you can stay connected and get the job done while away from the office--without a delay and in a secure environment. Email is delivered to your device in real time across the National Enhanced Services Rate & Coverage Area, and you get the ability to forward large attachments via email as well as access both your personal and corporate emails on one device. Wireless Sync offers strong security with AES encryption (Advanced Encryption Standard) technology so that unauthorized parties cannot access or alter application data transmitted over wireless networks.
Phone Features The HTC Ozone has a 2.4-inch screen (320 x 240-pixel resolution) that sits above a 5-way navigation rocker and standard send/end keys. The full QWERTY keyboard is ergonomically designed with extra-large domed keys and responsive tactile feedback to make typing emails and text messages fast, accurate and comfortable. The phone includes a 256 MB internal flash memory (as well as 192 MB of RAM), and its memory can be expanded via optional MicroSD/SDHC memory cards (up to 16 GB in size).
Powerful enough for experienced business users looking for an affordable, the HTC Ozone is a straightforward choice for remotely synchronizing email, calendar and contacts with your Microsoft Exchange server. However, the flexible Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard platform allows the it to also be simple enough for first-time smartphone users wanting to keep their family life organized.
Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking--surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable). You'll also be able to access open Wi-Fi networks in offices and hotspots via the integrated 802.11b/g wireless connectivity.
Other features include:
Get to your messages and information fast with the sliding-panel home screen.
2.0 megapixel camera with fixed focus and video capture
Support for Office Outlook Mobile and Microsoft Exchange with Direct Push
Instant Messaging: AIM, WL Messenger, Yahoo!
Enjoy desktop-like browsing with Internet Explorer Mobile 6
Applications: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6, Microsoft Office Mobile (Word Mobile, Excel Mobile, PowerPoint Mobile, and OneNote Mobile), Microsoft Outlook Mobile, Adobe Reader LE PDF viewer
Device navigation: QWERTY keyboard, one-touch key to access Messaging, 5-way navigation pad, end/power button, send/hands-free button, back/clear button, Home button, volume up/down button, 2 softkeys
Compatible audio/video formats: Windows Media Player 10 Mobile, MPEG-4, H.263, H.264, AVI, WAV, MP3, MP4, MIDI, WMV, 3GP, 3G2, WMA
USB connectivity (with included cable)
Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3/T3

Vital Statistics The HTC Ozone weighs 3.7 ounces and measures 4.5 x 2.5 x 0.5 inches. Its 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.8 hours of talk time, and up to 324 hours (13.5 days) of standby time. It runs on the 800/1900 MHz CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO 3G data network when on the Verizon network in the US; in international territories, it's compatible with 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE networks.
Powered by Windows Mobile 6.1 Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6.1 offers a number of handy features that make searching through email, editing Microsoft Office documents, and staying on top of your most important communications even easier. Emails can now be viewed in their original rich HTML format and now offer the ability to visit embedded links. It also includes Windows Live for Windows Mobile, which provides a full set of Windows Live services, such as the Windows Live Messenger IM application, which now enables you to chat with more than one person at one time or send a file.
With Windows Mobile 6.1, your phone will finally be able to emulate the power and features of your PC's Microsoft Office suite. You'll be able to neatly view, navigate and edit Word documents and Excel spreadsheets in their original formatting--without affecting tables, images or text--as well as view PowerPoint presentations.
Microsoft Office Word Mobile features include spell-check, Find and Replace commands, bulleted lists, text formatting, and support for tables for the first time.
With Excel Mobile, you're not just confined to editing charts: with the new Chart Wizard you can create charts quickly and easily.
PowerPoint Mobile allows you to view the full presentation, rehearse timings, check the order and any live links you may have in your presentation. You can then email comments back to the team or communicate via MSN Messenger for an immediate response.
After creating or editing a Word document or Excel spreadsheet, you can synchronize it with your PC and it will automatically be converted to the PC version.

All Windows Mobile 6.1 powered devices include Direct Push Technology for up-to-date e-mail delivery and automatic synchronization of Outlook calendars, tasks and contacts through Microsoft Exchange Server. It also offers a set of important device security and management features that include the capability to remotely wipe all data from a device should it be lost or stolen, helping ensure that confidential information remains that way.

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Samsung U540 Silver Phone (Verizon Wireless, Phone Only, No Service) Review

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(More customer reviews)I had a Samung phone before and knew how the buttons all worked. I assumed Samsung would maintain the same good-sense button logic on newer, similar model phones. I was wrong. I've got a few problems which I outline below:
LOCK BUTTON SUCKS - I keep my phone in my pocket. Even though I've enabled the Lock feature, you can unlock it without opening the phone, so you can accidentally unlock it. (What kind of lock is that?) When it unlocks while in my pocket, sometimes the camera feature gets pressed, and I have a dozen black photos of the inside of my pocket. Similarly, the voice dial can be enabled, and I hear a voice from my pocket asking me to re-say the name I wish to dial. "Wish to dial?" I locked the dang thing! I didn't want to call anyone!
CONTACT LIST SCROLLING - My old Samsung had external side buttons that, when showing the contact list, would 'page down' or 'page up' scrolling through the contact list. On the u540, the buttons do nothing, and you have to choose the first letter of the name of the person you wish to call from the keypad. It requires far more attention to chose a letter than to just scroll down.
DEFUALT RINGTONES STINK - This may just be because of my carrier (Verizon), but all the default ringtones are irritating. There's nothing mellow or unobtrusive. If you want to have something else, you have to pay extra. Since mine is a company phone, I don't think management is gonna like paying for 'ringtones' or having to go to the effort of getting $3 from me. What a hassle. Also, after browsing the Verizon site, all the ringtones are pop songs. Whatever happened to a simple ring?
LITTLE BUILT-IN MEMORY - You can take photos, video and listen to music! But only if you go and buy a chip. Some aren't too expensive, but it's still just another barrier to enjoying the phone.
SLOPPY HINGE - I'd expect a product like this to be made to tight specs. When the phone is closed, the 'screen' half is loose. It wiggles on top of the 'button' half and gives the phone a flimsy feel to it. Also, you'd think with stereo speakers on the outside on top, you'd think the phone has speaker phone ability. It doesn't.
SOME GOOD POINTS - It's sleek and thin (though if you get the extended battery like I did, it ain't so thin). I seem to be easily heard by people I call, and the buttons are large enough to press easily. The screen is bright and readable. The camera has some good controls on it (exposure bias, ISO, etc), which surprised me.
All in all I'm disappointed. I really just want a good phone as a phone. Make calls, accept calls, and usually sit there quietly. Given the chance again, I would not choose this phone.
***EDIT***: I've since discovered that my carrier, Verizon, has put its own interface/software on this phone to make it match all its other phones (in order to simplify tech support, I suppose). Most of my complaints about this phone actually stemmed from the fact that Verizon did a poor job of making the buttons work sensibly, including the poor selection of default ringtones. With another carrier/interface this phone would likely perform differently. This discovery partially renewed my confidence with Samsung technology, though further aggravates my frustrations with Verizon Wireless.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung U540 Silver Phone (Verizon Wireless, Phone Only, No Service)

Want all the best phone features without breaking the bank? The high-end handset market just became a lot more affordable with the Samsung SCH-u540. Capture the moment, even on the go, with its advanced 1.3-megapixel camera/camcorder. Also, you'll have access to advanced media functions such as Verizon's V Cast Music and V Cast Video services, as well as location based services that include VZ Navigator GPS functions, and Verizon's chaperone child and parent modes. Other high-end features include a microSD card slot with support for cards up to 2 GB in size, stereo Bluetooth, dual color screens, an internal antenna, dedicated external music keys, and more.
Design The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a vibrant 2.1-inch, 176 x 220 pixel, full-color display with support for over 260,000 colors, perfect for V Cast Web and Video content. A supplementary full-color external screen can display call information, current date and time, battery and signal strength, and more. The external screen can also be set to display a handsome analog clock. Just below the external display, you'll find convenient music control buttons that allow you to navigate through your favorite music content without ever needing to open the handset. Most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button on the handset's backlit control pad. The u540 has no external antenna, so there's nothing to snag in your pants pocket. A charging port is located on the bottom edge of the phone, while an advanced 1.3-megapixel camera with a self-timer is housed on the front cover of the phone. Lastly, the built-in speakerphone allows you to talk handsfree.
Calling Features The u540's built-in address book can store up to 500 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. The phone comes with built-in polyphonic ringtones while more ringtones can be downloaded from Verizon's Get it Now service (additional charges apply). The included advanced voice recognition feature allows you to make calls and access other essential features, all without ever touching the device. Meanwhile, a built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear. Plus, picture ID functionality lets you assign photos or other images to callers. Lastly, the u540's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911.
If desired, the onboard GPS feature can do more than give your current location to emergency personnel. The u540 is fully compatible with Verizon's VZ Navigator service, a feature that provides all the bells and whistles of an advanced navigation system on your mobile phone at a fraction of the price of other GPS devices and systems. The VZ Navigator service provides heads-up, voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions (with auto-rerouting if you miss a turn), local search of nearly fourteen million points of interest (POIs) in the United States, and detailed color maps that can be quickly panned and zoomed. With VZ Navigator, you'll know where you are, know what's around you, and know how to get there fast (additional Verizon charges apply).
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 u540'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. 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 u540 is fully compatible with Verizon's V Cast service. With V Cast, you can download and stream high-quality video. Need news and weather? 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, are all available. 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. Learn more about V Cast.
Verizon's music service is another EV-DO-powered service that makes the u540 all the more desirable. 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. View the V Cast Music demo.
A number of handy software tools are bundled with the u540 including a voice memo recorder, a calculator, a calendar, and an alarm clock.
The u540 is chaperone capable, a feature that allows you to always know where the user is, be it a child, a baby sitter, or a teenager on her first date. You can define a zone or a specific area, such as a school or summer camp, and when your family member enters or leaves the zone with their handset, Verizon will automatically send an alert to your phone with the time and location of your family member's handset (additional charges may apply).
Imaging and Entertainment The fun really starts with the u540's built-in 1.3-megapixel camera/camcorder, which features a self-timer, shutter sound selection, brightness adjustment, and other editing features. When it's time to jam out to your favorite music, listen to music with your favorite stereo Bluetooth headset, or share the music via the built-in stereo speakers.
Vital Statistics The Samsung SCH-u540 weighs 2.82 ounces and measures 3.88 x 2.0 x 0.66 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 200 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the CDMA 850/1900 frequencies, as well as the EV-DO and 1xRTT data frequencies. The phone comes with a one-year limited warranty.
Note: The SCH-u540 supports Headset (HSP), Handsfree (HFP), Dial Up Networking (DUN), Serial Port (SPP), and Object Push (OPP) for vCard. It does not support all Bluetooth Object Transfer (OBEX) Profiles.

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Samsung BlackJack II Phone, Black (AT&T) Review

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(More customer reviews)Personal background: I am a medical resident who loves tech/gadgets, and who has used a PocketPC (HP Ipaq 1910) since 2003 and a Blackjack (i607) since 2007. Currently an AT&T customer.
So I recently sold my Blackjack I on the world's favorite auction site and bought a Blackjack II (i617) from the same site. Here's my breakdown, but keep in mind that some pros and some cons are based on the phone or the operating system. Anywayz...The Good:
1. Design
I thought I would hate it when I saw the first images released months ago, and did not like the glossy appearance when I first tried one out at an AT&T store, but actually owning one now, I think it's great. The shape simply feels good in my hand. It is nicely weighted, but not too heavy or too light. The width is great, and is also not too wide or narrow. Obviously, this depends on your own hand size. The glossy surface I found I prefer to the matte/soft-rubbery surface texture of the original Blackjack. IMO, it looks much more upper-end than the original. The glossiness is not a big deal in terms of being a fingerprint magnet because there is not much exposed to the fingers, except for the soft keys. This device is not a fingerprint magnet like, say, a black iPod or a Sony PSP. Much attention has been paid to details, and it is a very clean design. No more "jog dial" on the right side (more on that later), and only a MicroSD port on the right and a proprietary port for power/headphones on the left, and both are covered with a removable and "swivel-able" cover. I compared this with various other smartphones including the Motorola Q9h and various Nokias and Blackberries, and think that they all look quite cheesy and tacky compared to the i617. Of course, design is subjective, but I really like the design.
-Scroll Wheel
The jog dial on the right side of the i607 is indeed gone, but not missed at all. I used the jog dial extensively on the i607 and so I was initially concerned that it would be a pain to navigate on the i617, but not so at all. The direction pad also functions as a spinning scroll wheel, and it works great. It cannot be adjusted for scroll speed, but it will scroll through contacts, mp3s in your library, etc., with much speed and ease. For menus, though, like the start menu, it is not as speedy but hardly slow or cumbersome. I find it much more comfortable to use than the jog dial on the old Blackjack or the Moto Q.
-Keypad
Improved significantly by slightly wider buttons. They do not seem much bigger, but the ease of typing has increased noticeably for me, and it is possible to type much quicklier. Also, the number pad are located next to each other which is an improvement over the i607.
-LED
Useful in that the light shines red when charging, and green when fully charged. Otherwise, not so useful in that there is no documentation of what magenta and blue lights signify, and no ability for the LED to continuously flash when there was a missed call/message. Still, better than no LED.
2. Performance:
Of course, performance matters more for a smartphone, and the i617 does not disappoint in any respect. The RAM memory has been upped from about 50MB on the Blackjack I, to about 100MB on the i617, while onboard storage memory ROM has been upped to approximately 150MB from about 50MB as well. The processor is an ARM 926E at about 300Mhz, a modest improvement from the i607. Basically, this all means that the i617 can handle programs with more ease and with better multitasking. It opens applications noticeably faster than the i607, and can handle more open applications at the same time. I personally have tried several third party programs, including Skype, SlingPlayer Mobile, Pocket Nester Plus (a Nintendo NES emulator), Garmin Mobile XT (GPS navigation software), Opera Mobile browser, and a variety of Skyscape medical software (including Tabers medical dictionary and Washington Manual), and all have run swiftly and smoothly. Also, Windows Mobile 6 runs at a decent speed on the i617.
3. GPS:
Built in GPS receiver is one of the best features of this phone. I have used it successfully, out of the box, with Google Maps, Microsoft Live Search, and Garmin Mobile XT without any problems in Baltimore, New York, and points in between. On average, it takes the i617 about 2-5 minutes to pick up the satellites from a cold start in the city. In certain locations, like the parking lot of Walmart in Baltimore, it picked up the satellites in 10 seconds from a cold start (e.g. turned on after being powered off)! Note, there are reports that some i617s do not have GPS enabled out of the box for use with non-TeleNav applications (e.g. Google Maps, Live Search, Garmin, etc.), but you can google the way that others have worked around this issue (involves hard resetting your phone until it works, or installing a hack... checkout modaco-dot=com for more details). The other great thing about GPS integrated is that you can use it in your car with only one charger to charge both GPS and phone, which is nice after using a bluetooth GPS receiver on my i607. And you will need a car charger as the GPS is a power hog.
One nice improvement over the i607 (not sure if it's the phone or WM6), but when actively using GPS in an application, the backlight will not turn off, which is nice when you are using it in the car. On my i607, I would need to go to power management settings to turn the backlight on when using GPS and turn it off when I was done with it, which was a bit of a hassle.
4. Smartphone!
Yes, it is great having a smartphone versus a cool, yet dull iPhone. You can use programs like Skype (works decently with 3G network), SlingPlayer Mobile (also works well with 3G), NES and SNES emulators (with individual games ~1/3 of a MB in size), all sorts of cool 3rd party software. YouTube works as well! Not with Windows Media Player 10 Mobile, but with TCPMP (the core player mobile player) which is a free-download. I have sat in a deli in New York streaming YouTube clips in fullscreen (320x240 resolution) with minimal stuttering. It is seriously awesome.
Unlike the iPhone (a great phone otherwise), with a smartphone, not only can you use a huge number of 3rd party applications, but you can also easily hack your phone (search for i617 hacks) to change you start menu, get rid of the power on/off video and sounds, edit backgrounds, and basically change things to your preference.
5. MicroSD:
Yes, you can use 8GB MicroSD cards! I have a Sandisk MicroSD that I bought for about $82 and it works without any problems. Supposedly, they will work on the i607 as well.
6. Music/Video:
MP3s sound great on the i617 as they did on the i607. Videos look and sound great too, and can be easily created with freeware (like 3GP converter). I have made tons of TV show, movie, and music video files this way, and with a 8GB MicroSD card, you can store A LOT of media files on your phone. At least as much as the 8GB iPhone ;)
7. Ringtones:
You can, of course, use your own MP3 files as ringtones, which is great. Sadly, there is a size limit of 300KB, but you can easily hack this so that you can use any size MP3 for a ringtone (involves a simple deletion of a registry key, which can easily be done).
8. 3G and Tethering:
3G is absolutely a required feature on any smartphone, and this will enable you to stream YouTube, SlingPlayer Mobile, etc., on your i617 without difficulty, and without need of a wifi hotspot and additional subscription fees. Also, you can USB "tether" this phone and use it as a high-speed modem for you laptop when you are traveling (especially in 3G regions)! How cool is that?
9. Various Preinstalled Applications:
I like using World Map (improved from i607), the PDF viewer (which sadly runs out of memory when trying to view the New York MTA subway map, but works fine with other PDF files I have used), the calculator, and especially the alarm (can set multiple alarms, with specific ring tones, and personalize-able days of the week and times). Java is now included in the i617 so that you can use the gmail application (although I prefer the web-based gmail better) and other java applets. The Mediocre:
1. Windows Mobile 6:
WM6 offers some improvements over WM5, the most noticeable one perhaps being the inclusion of Office Mobile. With this, you can view Powerpoint, Excel, and Word files, and you can edit Excel and Word files. While nice, it is not that great as it is just not really feasible to edit or view a huge Excel spreadsheet on the tiny 2.4" screen, and the functionality and viewing options are limited and make navigating difficult. Word fares a bit better, and can be considered a useful addition. Powerpoint files, oddly, cannot be edited with Office Mobile, which is odd because PPT files are the only ones that can generally be viewed decently on the 2.4" screen. An entire slide looks decent when viewed on the screen, so long as it is not jam packed with text. It takes about 5 seconds to transition between slides, which makes it frustrating when viewing a long PPT presentation.
2. Battery Life:
Samsung improved upon the much maligned (unjustly, IMO, as much of the drainage occurred as a result of the phone automatically switching between 3G and EDGE networks, which could be addressed by using a simple "hidden" application already present in the i607 to set the data network to only 3G or EDGE) battery life of the i607 by putting a 1700mAh lithium battery as the standard battery. This is significantly larger than the 1100mAh standard battery of the i607, and almost the capacity of the...Read more›

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung BlackJack II Phone, Black (AT&T)

The successor to the original, highly popular Blackjack smartphone, the Samsung Blackjack II (SGH-I617) retains the thin, lightweight design, QWERTY keyboard, and large screen from its predecessor while adding the power of the Windows Mobile 6 operating system, integrated GPS, and upping image capture quality to 2.0 megapixels. It can access AT&T's tri-band HSDPA/UMTS high-speed 3G network, which makes it easy to download music purchased from AT&T Mobile Music, stream tunes from Napster and eMusic, and watch video streamed from CNN and Comedy Central via AT&T's Cellular Video. It also supports AT&T's Video Share service, which offers a one-way video stream during a mobile-to-mobile phone call.
The Windows Mobile 6 Professional operating system offers a familiar office experience and the ability to read and edit in applications such as Word or Excel as well as review Powerpoint presentations. You can also receive Outlook email and update your contacts and calendar on the go. Other features include quad-band global connectivity. And you'll be able to get to where you're going fast with the integrated GPS receiver and support for TeleNav GPS Navigator software. Other features include Bluetooth connectivity for headsets and stereo music streaming, MicroSD memory expansion, speakerphone, instant messaging, and simultaneous voice and data capabilities.
AT&T Service This AT&T phone can handle high-speed data connectivity via AT&T's 3G mobile broadband data network, which is available in most major metropolitan areas. The AT&T 3G network uses the tri-band UMTS/HSDPA 850/1900/2100 MHz network (also known as WCDMA), making it possible to enjoy a variety of feature-rich wireless multimedia services with speeds up to 3.6 Mbps. It also gives AT&T the advantage of offering simultaneous voice and data services.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you'll continue to receive service on the AT&T EDGE network, which offers availability in more than 13,000 US cities and along some 40,000 miles of major highways. Providing average data speeds between 75-135Kbps, it's fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services, including video and music clips, full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and email on the go. You'll also enjoy quad-band GSM connectivity, which allows you to make calls in more than 190 countries and access data applications in the more than 135 countries where AT&T offers international data roaming.
With 3G connectivity, you'll be able to access AT&T's Video Share service, which enables you to send a live, one-way video stream to another compatible phone during a standard voice call. The service also allows you to switch the direction of the video stream during the same phone call. (Customers must be in an area served by the company's 3G network and have a Video Share-enabled phone.)
It's packed with multimedia streaming and download capabilities. AT&T's Cellular Video (CV) service features content from CNN, The Weather Channel, iFilm, Comedy Central and exclusive premium content from HBO and much more. And you get access to AT&T Mobile Music, which enables you to buy tracks while on the, access the Napster subscription music service, stream music video, discover what's playing with Music ID song-recognition software, and find out what's hot with The Buzz music news portal. (A MEdia Max subscription bundle is recommended for accessing AT&T's Internet, video, and music services.)
The phone has a built-in web browser for MEdia Net downloads and mobile web browsing. AT&T's MEdia Net service enables you to receive and send emails, read news headlines, get weather updates, download games and ringtones, and more.
Phone Features Glossier than its predecessor, the Samsung BlackJack II impresses immediately with its striking looks, thin frame, and larger 2.4-inch LCD screen (320 x 240 pixels, 65K colors). The Samsung BlackJack II makes every aspect of your life look easy. The full QWERTY keypad gives you every letter at a touch. And the Jog Wheel lets you quickly access, scroll through and select whatever you're searching for.
With Windows Mobile 6, the BlackJack II brings a powerful personal computer experience to the small screen. The BlackJack II helps you keep track of schedules and contacts through Outlook Mobile, browse the Internet by using Internet Explorer Mobile, as well as manage Word, Excel and PowerPoint documents using Office Mobile. Windows Mobile 6 also supports HTML e-mail so that you can view and compose e-mail messages in their native format with live links to Web sites, support for images, tables and bullets.
BlackJack II will be among the first Windows Mobile 6 devices from AT&T to support Microsoft's System Center Mobile Device Manager 2008, which offers companies an end-to-end solution for managing and securing Windows Mobile devices. Employees will also have access to company information and a line of business applications from a single, secure place behind the firewall by using a cutting-edge Mobile Virtual Private Network (VPN).
In addition to a robust feature set, BlackJack II provides access to multiple e-mail accounts, both personal and business, through Microsoft Direct Push technology with Outlook Mobile and AT&T Xpress Mail, which includes most major POP3/IMAP providers. The BlackJack II also offers over-the-air synchronization of contacts, calendar and task lists with Microsoft Exchange Server or AT&T Xpress Mail.
This phone provides Bluetooth version 2.0 wireless connectivity, and includes profiles for mono and stereo headset, handsfree, dial-up networking, object push, file transfer, and basic print. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking--surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server. It also offers USB 2.0 wired connectivity and USB mass storage capability.
Other features include:
Memory expansion via MicroSD cards up to 4 GB
PIM tools: Calendar, clock, world time, alarm, currency converter, unit converter, calculator, stopwatch
Instant messaging via AOL, Windows Live, Yahoo!
Hands-free loudspeaker and microphone
Fast loading HTML browser; RSS reader
2.0-megapixel camera with 4x zoom and multi-shot capability
256 MB ROM / 128 MB RAM

Vital Statistics The Samsung Blackjack II weighs 3.52 ounces and measures 4.4 x 2.3 x. 0.4 inches. Its 1700 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7 hours of talk time, and up to 14 days of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies as well as 850/1900/2100 WCDMA (3G) frequencies.
Powered by Windows Mobile 6 Microsoft's Windows Mobile 6 updates the Windows Mobile 5 platform with a number of handy features that make searching through email, editing Microsoft Office documents, and staying on top of your most important communications even easier. Emails can now be viewed in their original rich HTML format and now offer the ability to visit embedded links. It also includes Windows Live for Windows Mobile, which provides a full set of Windows Live services, such as the Windows Live Messenger IM application, which now enables you to chat with more than one person at one time or send a file. This device runs Windows Mobile 6 Professional, which is designed for smartphones with touchscreens
With Windows Mobile 6, your phone will finally be able to emulate the power and features of your PC's Microsoft Office suite. You'll be able to neatly view, navigate and edit Word documents and Excel spreadsheets in their original formatting--without affecting tables, images or text--as well as view PowerPoint presentations.
Microsoft Office Word Mobile features include spell-check, Find and Replace commands, bulleted lists, text formatting, and support for tables for the first time.
With Excel Mobile, you're not just confined to editing charts: with the new Chart Wizard you can create charts quickly and easily.
PowerPoint Mobile allows you to view the full presentation, rehearse timings, check the order and any live links you may have in your presentation. You can then email comments back to the team or communicate via MSN Messenger for an immediate response.
After creating or editing a Word document or Excel spreadsheet, you can synchronize it with your PC and it will automatically be converted to the PC version.

All Windows Mobile 6 powered devices include Direct Push Technology for up-to-date e-mail delivery and automatic synchronization of Outlook calendars, tasks and contacts through Microsoft Exchange Server. It also offers a set of important device security and management features that include the capability to remotely wipe all data from a device should it be lost or stolen, helping ensure that confidential information remains that way.

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Motorola Rival A455 Phone, Purple (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have been looking around for an upgrade and after a couple of months settled on this one - love it! The sound is great, no delay when talking cell-cell or cell-landline. Added bonus for me is the music player; I downloaded my music to a micro memory card and use it every evening for walking! I walk 5 miles a night and it doesn't even drop the battery one bar; great batter life! Also, did I mention it uses regular headphones; no need to buy the expensive one! Overall, I am very pleased with my purchase. If there is a downfall to this phone it would be the speed dial; you have to open up to the qwerty key-board to use it, it will not work from the touch keypad for dialing numbers (at least I haven't figured it out if you can).

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Designed for quick and easy messaging, the Motorola Rival for Verizon Wireless keeps keeps you connected to your social network with one-touch access to messaging and a side– sliding, backlit QWERTY keyboard. It's compatible with Verizon's V Cast Music Service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via Verizon's fast 3G EV-DO data network. You'll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. And with the optional Visual Voice Mail service, you'll be able to quickly and easily scroll through your messages and pick the ones you want to listen to.
This pocket-friendly side-slider with QWERTY keyboard features one-touch access to both text and instant messaging as well as a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth for handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, MicroSD memory expansion up to 8 GB, bilingual interface (English/Spanish), 3.5mm headset jack, ability to use the phone as a modem with the optional Mobile Broadband Connect service, and up to 5.3 hours of talk time.

Verizon Wireless Service With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.) The V Cast Music service enables you to download songs instantly to your phone, or purchase music through your PC and transfer the files to your phone. If purchased from your phone, you'll receive two copies of the song: a Windows Media Audio Pro Plus format at 64Kbps stereo is sent to your phone, and a Windows Media Audio 9 format at 160Kbps stereo is sent to your account in the V CAST Music online store for downloading to your PC. V Cast Music offers nearly 2 million songs, with more being added all the time.

In addition to the V Cast Music service, this phone is also compatible with the Verizon Wireless V CAST Music with Rhapsody, which enables you to access this exclusive digital music service for RealNetworks and for MTV Networks. V CAST Music with Rhapsody delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers. In addition, customers who purchase music over-the-air are able to download the master copy of the songs or albums to their PCs free of digital rights management (DRM) software that restricts how and where music can be played.

With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.

Getting on the Internet is easy using the Verizon Wireless Mobile Web 2.0 package, which allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. The Verizon Wireless Media Center wireless download service is also fully compatible with this phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Media Center service.

With Visual Voice Mail, you can delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.

With Mobile Broadband Connect (subscription required), you can use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable--or open a Bluetooth connection--enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The tethered modem capability is ideal when you're traveling and need to use your notebook to check email, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with Mobile Broadband Connect, you won't have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.

Phone Features The face of the Motorola Rival has a 2.2-inch LCD screen (176 x 220 pixels, 65K color depth) that's complemented by round directional navigation rocker that's surrounded by send/end keys. The phone's full QWERTY keyboard slides out from its side and the screen auto-rotates to landscape view. To dial a number with the slider QWERTY keyboard closed, press the Dial Pad key (placed above the green Send key on the left side of the face) to bring up an alpha-numeric keypad on the screen. You can then dial your number by simply tapping the numbers on the touch-sensitive screen.

Out-thumb your friends with IM-style texting that organizes messages by contact, displaying them in a chat-like format. Messaging is made even faster with a backlit QWERTY keyboard that shows only the characters and numbers you need to use while texting in the dark. One-touch access to text message composition, emoticons, symbols and IM or email lets you quickly chime in and contribute to the chatter. Keep all of your important conversations handy by holding up to 500 text messages in your inbox and outbox.

The phone includes a digital audio player that's compatible with MP3, WMA and unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats. You can create and manage playlists directly on the phone as well as easily sync music from your PC to the Rival via an optional USB cable. You can store music on optional MicroSD memory cards, and the Rival is compatible with cards up to 8 GB in size.

Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone provides the latest version of Bluetooth connectivity--version 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), which makes pairing with the Bluetooth devices a snap. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking--surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable).

The 2-megapixel camera can capture still photos in four resolutions (1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 640 x 480, and 320 x 240 pixels as well as a small Picture ID size to add to your phonebook). It also features up to a 7x digital zoom (depending on resolution setting), white balance settings (Auto, Sunny, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, Darkness), a self-timer, and multiple color effects. You can also capture video clips in QCIF resolution (176 x 144 pixels) for as long as you have available memory on an inserted memory card.

The Rvial has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging, too, with support for sending and receiving text, picture, and video messages as well as mobile instant messaging (IM). There's also a complete e-mail client on the device for POP- and IMAP-based accounts. And of course, the QWERTY keyboard makes it a snap to type your messages.

Other features include:

Backlit QWERTY keyboard for faster messaging; keyboard lights up either characters, numbers or symbols based on entry mode while texting in the dark
Mobile Email allows access to popular e-mail services such as Yahoo!, Hotmail, AOL and Windows Live
Instantly connect with friends on AOL Instant Messenger, Windows Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger with Mobile IM
One-touch access to text message composition, emoticons, symbols, IM and e-mail
IM-style texting that organizes messages by contact, displaying them in a chat-like format; hold up to 500 text messages in your inbox and outbox
Corporate Email capable (sync your calendar, contacts and email with Exchange 2003 or 2007)
Up to 1000 phonebook contacts
Airplane mode
Voice commands
Embedded ringtones, compatible with optional MP3 ringtones
Vibrating alert and silent mode
Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3/T3
3.5mm headset jack
Bluetooth Profiles: Headset, Handsfree, Dial Up Networking, Stereo, Phonebook Access, Basic Printing, Basic Imaging, Object Push for vCard and vCalendar & File Transfer

Vital Statistics The Motorola Rival weighs 4.4 ounces and measures 3.8 x 2.0 x 0.71 inches. Its 940 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5.3 hours (320 minutes) of talk time, and up to 510 hours (21+ days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as 1X/EV-DO 3G frequencies.

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Motorola w755 Phone, Black (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I spent 4 hours reading reviews on various cell phones, including two hours on the W755, before buying.
Overall, I couldn't be more pleased. I upgraded from an LG phone that was just over two years old. Several of the W755's features are one's that I either did not have available on the LG, or were ones that I was not impressed with on prior phones.
What a pleasant surprise the following were:
1. The speaker phone works very well. I had seen reviews complaining about the speaker phone function. Compared to the LG, this thing is paradise. It has plenty of volume and does not suffer from severe distortion.
2. Voice command: excellent, even without training. Most of my calls are made using voice command. I did learn over past years to enter names in my contact list "phoenetically", in other words, spell them out according to how they are most likely to be pronounced.
3. Verizon: a very nice utility to save your old phone's contact list to a web site, and then after activating the new phone, download the contact list to the new phone. Worked perfectly, first try! (also Auto-updating if you make future changes on your web-site contact list)
4. MP3 Player: worked better than I expected, even through the speaker phone. The free download of V-Cast Rhapsody software works very well for getting cuts from your computer on to the phone. I have a large MP3 collection and doing playlists on the computer and then drag/drop that playlist onto the W755 is as simple as it can get. (requires downloading and installing the proper motorola usb drivers...follow the Verizon V-Cast Rhapsody links...DO NOT go directly to Rhapsody, as you will end up with the wrong drivers and software not customized to the W755)
5. Camera: requires a steady hand and fluorescent lights require adjustment of color balance. The pictures are usable, but not up to "real" camera standards.
6. Blue Tooth: a very big surprise was the ability to send pictures wirelessly to the local Wal-Mart Kodak Picture Maker.
7. Blue Tooth Headset: I got two Motorola H710 headsets. They paired easily and work phenomenally well.The phone/headset pairing is remembered and initialized automagically, so future uses require no intervention other than opening the boom on the headset (assuming you have Blue Tooth turned on in the W755)
8. Ergonomics: fits the hand well, nicely reinforced hinge compared to the Razer. Larger buttons than I was used to (a real plus) and tactile feedback of button presses is welcome, as well. The display is large enough to not stress my aging eyes. Fits in my shirt pocket easily with two pens and a penlight, even with the double capacity battery. (I know, nerdy!)
9. Display Schemes: while several are offered, the "Youth" selection produces a clear, attractive and readily readable display.
10. Ring tones: I found a utility to send ring tones to the phone, and several sites that allow free access to ring tones, and one particular site that creates a ring tone from user entered text and generates morse code ring tones. I now have every person in my contact list set to spell out their name in morse code when they call. (obviously of limited utility to non-radio amateurs, but worth a mention)
11. Interfacing to Computer: the USB to mini-USB data cable has worked properly with both V-Cast/Rhapsody (for transferring MP3 files), and the aforementioned utility for moving ring tones to the W755. Auto-updating contact list via the web site works amazingly well and quickly (this is done via the wireless phone itself, no data connection required).
Cons:
1. Vibrate is weak. Not a factor for me, but I doubt it could ever be heard on a couch...I could just barely tell it was vibrating on a glass table, in a largish living room.
2. Memory card storage is inconveniently located under the battery compartment. Since I have a 2 gig card, I don't have much need to move it in and out of the phone, but it still isn't a great place to locate the card.
Summary:
I got two phones, one for the wife, who is NOT easily pleased. We are both happy with all aspects of the phone, as noted above. It is the best cell phone we have ever used, much less owned. Highly recommend both it and the Motorola H710 headset.

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Svelte and stylish, the Motorola W755 clamshell phone for Verizon is compatible with the V Cast Music Service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via Verizon's fast EV-DO data network. Other Verizon service options include V Cast Video with clips from major networks and GPS turn-by-turn directions via VZ Navigator. The W755 is loaded with features, including Bluetooth stereo music streaming, a 1.3-megapixel camera with video capture, MicroSD memory expansion up to 4 GB, and up to 3.7 hours of talk time.
Verizon Service Options With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon's multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.) The V Cast Music service enables you to download songs instantly to your phone, or purchase music through your PC and transfer the files to your phone. If purchased from your phone, you'll receive two copies of the song: a Windows Media Audio Pro Plus format at 64Kbps stereo is sent to your phone, and a Windows Media Audio 9 format at 160Kbps stereo is sent to your account in the V CAST Music online store for downloading to your PC. V Cast Music offers nearly 2 million songs, with more being added all the time.
The V Cast Video service enables you to stream or download video clips to your phone from a variety of news, entertainment, sports, and weather channels, including CNN, ABC News, E!, CBS Sports, The Weather Channel, and VH1.
Getting on the Internet is easy using Verizon's Mobile Web 2.0 package, which allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. Verizon's Get It Now wireless download service is also fully compatible with this phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Get It Now service.
With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access Verizon's VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.
Phone Features The Moto W755 clamshell phone offers dual displays as well as dedicated music controls surrounding the external screen. It has a standard numeric keypad with send/end keys, 4-way navigation toggle, and soft keys. The internal LCD has a 176 x 220-pixel resolution, while the external display measures 96 x 80 pixels; both screens support up to 65K colors. The internal 21 MB memory can store up to 1000 contacts, with each entry able to store up to 5 numbers and a picture ID. You can expand the phone's memory using optional MicroSD memory cards (up to 4 GB in size).
It's embedded with Bluetooth version 1.2 technology and it has a unique external touch sensitive control for pairing the phone with devices. It includes profiles for communication handsets, dial-up networking, and sending contacts and calendar entries to other devices. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones.
The 1.3-megapixel camera can capture still images up to 1280 x 1040 pixels, perfect for printing snapshots. It also includes a 4x digital zoom and video capture/playback capabilities. The digital audio player is compatible with MP3, WMA, and unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats, and you can create and manage playlists right inside the phone.
Support is built in for sending and receiving pictures, text, graphics, sound and video via messages. When used in combination with the phone's built-in still and video camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. And to make messaging even easier on the E590, the phone comes stock with built-in iTap text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets.
Other features include:
Bluetooth version 1.2 with the following profiles: A2DP (stereo music streaming), AVRC (remote control), HFP (hands-free car kits), HSP (communication headsets), BIP (for sending images to another device), BPP (basic printing profile for text, email), DUN (dial-up networking), FTP (file transfer), OPP (object push for business cards, calendar items, and pictures)
Voice activated dialing
Bilingual interface: English and Spanish
Speakerphone
Mobile IM and chat
Embedded ringtones (72-chord polyphonic), vibrating alerts, and silent mode
Organizer tools: Calendar, alarm, calculator, to-do list
2.5mm headset adapter
Mini-USB port
Hearing aid compatibility: M4/T4

Vital Statistics The Motorola W755 weighs 3.6 ounces and measures 4 x 1.7 x 0.7 inches. Its ___ mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.7 hours (220 minutes) of talk time, and up to 390 hours (16+ days) of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/1900 CDMA/EV-DO frequencies.

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Sierra Wireless 595U EVDO USB Modem (Verizon Wireless, Card Only, No Service) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I live out in the country so there aren't a lot of options for me as far as high speed internet goes. Satellite...decent speeds hurt by latency. WISPs (none in my area). And finally, 3(.5)G service providers. After some mulling around I went with Verizon. Sprint wasn't offering their 3G service in my area. I've tried a couple of the other USB EVDO adapters namely the UM150 and the USB720. Originally I had my sights set on the 595U, but due to stocking at my local store I had to settle on the UM150, Great device with a useless (to me) SD card option. I ended up returning it to get the device I thought I wanted in the 595U. Note: Instead of a built in antenna this device uses a battery to boost the signal. To be fair, this device does consistently deliver lower ping times than the previous devices I've tried by 30-50 ms, only problem with that is now I experience an average of 25% packet loss. Closer to the tower I'm sure that this would be a superior device, but for my circumstances, I'll pass. Hope this helps you decide which direction to go.

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The AirCard 595U USB modem is the latest addition to the Sierra Wireless family of wireless products. Packaged in a stylish, compact housing, the AirCard 595U USB modem either plugs directly into your laptop's USB port or the included docking cradle, letting home and enterprise users enjoy wireless EV-DO connectivity whether waiting at an airport, relaxing at a hotel, or meeting a client at a restaurant. The result is one of the best mobile and fixed wireless solutions on the market, and a great alternative to both PCMCIA and ExpressCard solutions.
Leveraging the latest high-speed EV-DO Revision A technology, the Sierra AirCard 595U USB modem provides maximum wide area wireless data access at speeds up to 3.1 Mbps download and 1.8 Mbps upload. Users can also expect average upload speeds to improve to 350 to 500 Kbps (from 70 to 144) and download speeds to 450 Kbps to 1.4 Mbps (from 300 to 600). The faster upload data speeds provide a richer experience for large file uploads and media/video streaming. In addition, the 595U is backward-compatible with older networks when 3G EV-DO networks are unavailable.
The AirCard 595U also includes a built-in GPS antenna and support for location based services (LBS). Users can acquire accurate mapping directions to client appointments or the closest restaurant using the GPS and LBS functions, which determines the exact location of the modem and calculates all the directions accordingly.
Verizon Connectivity Before checkout, choose the Verizon Internet plan that's right for you. The 595U is compatible with Verizon's BroadbandAccess and NationalAccess high-speed wireless data access plans, which means you can get the broadband-like speed you require to work efficiently outside the office. A Verizon BroadbandAccess plan will give you the freedom to stay productive and connected whether you're on the road or in a meeting across town with broadband-like connection speeds. You will also receive NationalAccess service when outside the BroadbandAccess rate and coverage area. NationalAccess is available in thousands of cities and towns.
The NationalAccess plan is Verizon Wireless' national wireless Internet service, and enables users to access the Internet, e-mail, attachments, and business applications with a laptop at average speeds of 60 to 80 kbps and bursts of up to 144 kbps (you may experience slower data speeds). Without a specified Verizon data plan, data service will be charged at 0.25 cents a minute.
Design and Installation Sierra Wireless unveiled a new design for the AirCard 595U USB modem. Thanks to the highly efficient and receptive antenna, the 595U provides end users with the fastest, most reliable connections, with improved speeds and extended coverage through better network signal acquisition in medium- to low-signal-strength areas. The modem also offers a robust antenna connector for attaching an optional external antenna.
The AirCard 595U comes with easy-to-install, easy-to-use Watcher software that provides a common look and feel across all Sierra Wireless products. The USB modem displays all the familiar parameters: signal strength, byte counter, network type, and other connection details, along with a detailed help file to enhance the user experience. The 595U also offers a USB connector that extends to 90, 135, and 160 degrees for flexible positioning.
Vital Statistics Compatible with Microsoft Windows (Vista, XP, and 2000) and Mac OS X operating systems, the dual-band (800 and 1900 MHz) AirCard 595U USB modem measures 3.66 by 0.78 by 1.53 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 0.13 pounds.

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Motorola RAZR2 V9m Phone (Verizon Wireless, Phone Only, No Service) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just took delivery of the new RAZR2 and I can say that this phone is a much needed improvement over the original RAZR. (See my review of the old RAZR.)
I upgraded from my RAZR to the new RAZR2. First thing that you notice is that the RAZR2 makes the RAZR look fat! It's slimmer, but the face is wider.
The new EXTERNAL screen on the RAZR2 is the same size as the INTERNAL screen on the original RAZR! The screen resolution is so much sharper, and on the external screen, you can use touch sensitive controls to activate your music files, voice command or camera. The touch screen actually vibrates when you press a selection. Both screens are brighter and clearer than the RAZR1.
The main user interface is very similar to the RAZR1. The reaction time is much quicker. Menus and commands appear and execute instantly. The RAZR1 seemed to have a delay in processing even the most simple commands.
To me, the call quality sounds exactly the same as the RAZR1, however, the earpiece can be adjusted louder and the external alerts are louder as well.
The phone includes GPS which works very well and is quite fast which providing point to point driving directions.
The enhanced Bluetooth feature is great. You can now send pictures, music and video files over the Bluetooth signal, versus the RAZR1 which only allowed voice data over Bluetooth.
The 2megapixel camera is a nice update over the RAZR1. I took a few test shots in various conditions. The picture quality and low-light ability is first rate. (For a camera phone.)
The feel and design of the RAZR2 keypad is identical to the RAZR1, but the circular, five point "wheel" in the center is bigger.
The internet browser is much faster and looks more like the "real web", but it's still not as good as the Iphone.
There are only a few things that I don't like about the RAZR2.
On the old RAZR, you could instantly silence the phone or put it into vibrate mode using the buttons on the external lefthand side of the phone while the phone was closed. Now you have to open the phone to set the ring volume/vibrate.
Also, the built-in ringtones are horrible and not loud enough to hear in a loud room. (Even on the highest setting.)
Otherwise, the new RAZR2 finally fixes the flaws of the original RAZR and makes it a decent new phone.

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After creating a gadget/fashion icon in the original MOTORAZR, Motorola has upped the ante with the new RAZR2 V9m with cutting edge technology and enhanced features that make it even easier to use. The RAZR2 V9m offers data connectivity via Verizon's EV-DO data network--perfect for surfing the Web as well as downloading music and video from Verizon's V Cast service. It's fully loaded with an arsenal of digital tools, including a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music and photo printing, MicroSD memory card expansion, dual color LCD screens, e-mail access, digital audio player, and full duplex speakerphone. And speaking of cutting edge, the phone's stainless steel internal frame and cast aluminum housing support makes the RAZR2 V9m stronger and more durable than its predecessor.
Verizon Service Options With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you'll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon's multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. The V Cast Music service enables you to download songs instantly to your phone, or purchase music through your PC and transfer the files to your phone. If purchased from your phone, you'll receive two copies of the song: a Windows Media Audio Pro Plus format at 64Kbps stereo is sent to your phone, and a Windows Media Audio 9 format at 160Kbps stereo is sent to your account in the V CAST Music online store for downloading to your PC. V Cast Music offers nearly 2 million songs, with more being added all the time.
With the V Cast Video service, you can stream or download video clips to your phone from a variety of news, entertainment, sports, and weather channels, including CNN, ABC News, E!, CBS Sports, The Weather Channel, and VH1.
Hear a song that you like but don't know the title? The V CAST SongID feature can listen to virtually any recorded music and give you back the title, artist and album. You can then the matching ringtone or full song with just one click. This phone is also enabled with the Get It Now service, which allows you to easily download ringtones, games, and applications.
With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access Verizon's VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps. And Verizon's Chaperone service lets you easily locate your loved ones from your Verizon Wireless phone or PC in real time. After defining a zone, such as an area designating a school or summer camp, you'll be sent an alert via text message when the Chaperone handset enters or leaves the zone.
Phone Features Designed to be even sharper than before, the RAZR2 V9m shaves two millimeters from the original MOTORAZR. Its one-piece housing has no parting lines (meaning fewer chances of break points) and the cast aluminum hinge underwent more than 100,000 lab tests to ensure durability. Even the exterior camera lens is stronger, as it is made with chemically hardened glass. Despite its slimmer profile, the RAZR2 V9m offers enhanced dual screens that make the phone seem larger. The 2.2-inch internal screen offers twice the resolution of the original MOTORAZR while the 2-inch external screen is great for checking caller photo ID, easily reading incoming text messages, and controlling music playback through onscreen controls. Both screens provide 320 x 240-pixel resolutions with support for up to 65K colors. Other Motorola-engineered enhancements include:
Upgraded Interface: With the redesigned, more intelligent interface, you'll be able to search for contacts faster and avoid duplicate entries for the same person while allowing contacts to have multiple numbers. The customizable main menu means you're never more than 2 to 3 clicks away from your favorite applications. And text messaging is easier, with the V9m recognizing what type of message you are sending.
Talk to Me: Originally designed to address the needs of those with vision impairment, the RAZR2 V9m is able to read the phone's interactive menus, contacts, messages and more aloud--adding convenience to your on-the-go lifestyle. SMS messages on the phone can be read and replied to with pre-programmed text messages without ever having to open up the flip.
Haptics: Motorola has incorporated breakthrough haptics technology--an interface that creates tactile feedback--that provides vibrating feedback in response to your finger taps. When combined with the virtual music keys, the haptics technology helps you to effortlessly control music playback.
The 2-megapixel camera includes a 4x digital zoom and it can automatically snap up to eight new pictures--letting you choose the best image from a complete series of pictures. You can even print photos wirelessly to a Bluetooth-compatible printer with just a few menu selections. It provides five resolution choices (from 160 x 120 to 1600 x 1200 pixels) and also features a self-timer and controls for brightness and white balance. The RAZR2 V9m is also an impressive video camcorder, providing up to QVGA resolution (320 x 240 pixels). You can record video for as long as you have available space on your MicroSD memory card, or choose a 10-second cap for videos sent via MMS. It supports H.263, H.264, and MPEG4 video formats.
With up to 2 GB of storage (via optional MicroSD memory card), the RAZR2 V9m can store up to 1000 of your favorite songs. It offers compatibility with Microsoft Windows Media Player 11, enabling easy synchronization and transfer between phone and PC. You'll be able to modify music playback with the flip closed thanks to the virtual contextual music controls that appear on the external screen. And you can keep playing music even while surfing the web, sending text messages, or even using the camera.
This phone provides Bluetooth version 1.2 wireless connectivity, and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and audio/video remote control. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking--surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server.
Other features include:
65 MB internal flash memory
Up to 1000 contact entries, each with up to six numbers and two email addresses
USB 2.0 wired connectivity, with mass storage capability
Polyphonic and MP3 ringtones
Voice command and dialing, as well as ability to record voice memos
PIM functions including calendar, calculator, alarm clock, and world clock
M4/T4 hearing aid and TTY compatibility
aGPS capable for E911 emergency location/sGPS

Vital Statistics The RAZR2 V9m weighs 4.13 ounces and measures 4.06 x 2.1 x 0.47 inches. Its 770 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.6 hours (215 minutes) of talk time, and up to 310 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/1900 CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO data network.

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Verizon Wireless USB720 EVDO Rev A USB Modem (Verizon Wireless, Card Only, No Service) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Few things with any mobile carrier actually work as advertised. This one does. The speed of the Rev A network even with a relatively weak signal is very fast and rivals wifi connections. If you're sick of paying for wifi access fees and want something that works just about anywhere in every computer you own, look no further.
In fact latency times are so low that I can use remote desktop and other applications that require a fast response time. It's just as fast as its PC card equivalent and gives you the flexibility to use it on any PC.
The best part of the entire deal for me is the Mac compatibility. It works great on my Mac Book (even in Leopard) and was a breeze to install.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Verizon Wireless USB720 EVDO Rev A USB Modem (Verizon Wireless, Card Only, No Service)

As an alternative to PC Cards or ExpressCards, the Verizon Wireless USB720 EV-DO Rev A USB Modem has been developed to be compatible with all devices supporting a Type A USB port, including desktops, notebooks, tablet PCs, and PDAs. In addition to this expanded compatibility, the USB720 has some amazing features such as increased upload and download speeds, VZAccess Manager capability, a high performance flip-up antenna, an LED service status indicator, a compact and lightweight design that allows maximum convenience for wireless mobility, and more.Other features include Windows Vista compatibility (as well as 2000 and XP) and Mac OS X compatibility (10.3.9 or higher).
Stay ConnectedThe USB720 is compatible with Verizon's BroadbandAccess and NationalAccess high-speed wireless data access plans. That means you can get the broadband-like speed you require to work efficiently outside the office.
A Verizon BroadbandAccess plan will give you the freedom to stay productive and connected whether you're on the road or in a meeting across town with broadband-like connection speeds. You will also receive NationalAccess service when outside the BroadbandAccess rate and coverage area. NationalAccess is available in thousands of cities and towns.
The NationalAccess plan is Verizon Wireless' national wireless Internet service, which enables users to access the Internet, email, attachments, and business applications with a laptop at average speeds of 60-80 kbps and bursts up to 144 kbps (you may experience slower data speeds).
Before checkout be sure to choose one of the previously mentioned Verizon wireless data plans to enjoy Unlimited access for Internet browsing, email, and Intranet access. Chose a plan that's right for you. Without a specified Verizon data plan, data service will be charged at 0.25 cents a minute.
Card Design and FeaturesThe USB720 comes with VZAccess Manager software for easy connection management right out of the box. Easy to install and use, the card features a high performance, flip-up antenna for increased speed and coverage allowing you to easily connect from the comforts of your favorite coffee shop, in a board meeting, or on your sofa at home. The card's intuitive user interface is easy to manage while the bright service state LED indicator lets you know signal availability and data transfer status at a glance. There's even an optional external Antenna Connector (sold separately) for times when you need to boost connectivity.
VZAccess Manager is a new customizable tool that lets you manage remote access needs across the country. VZAccess Manager, developed by Verizon Wireless in conjunction with one of its parent companies, Vodafone, is available for BroadbandAccess and NationalAccess wireless PC cards, and Mobile Office Kits. It allows mobile professionals, business, and enterprise customers to easily access Verizon Wireless' BroadbandAccess and NationalAccess services, and their own Wi-Fi and dial-up networks so that they can stay connected wherever they go.
VZAccess Manager is easy to use and simplifies wireless remote access allowing users to stay connected to business-critical email, company databases, files and the Internet while mobile. VZAccess Manager is ideal for information technology managers who seek to deploy a remote access solution that is easy for their employees to use with minimum support requirements.
EV-DO Wireless Broadband Coverage Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.
Vital StatisticsThe Verizon Wireless USB720 EV-DO Rev A USB Modem weighs 1.6 ounces and measures 3.52 x 1.49 x .69 inches. It is compatible with the Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/Vista and Mac OS X (10.3.9 and later) operating systems. It operates on the CDMA 850/1900 EV-DO/1xRTT frequencies.

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RIM® Blackberry 8830 Worldphone For Verizon (CDMA) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)FINALLY! A SmartPhone that keeps you productive and doesn't hassle you with malfunctions!
As you can probably surmise, I'm coming over from the Windows Mobile platform. After several years of wrestling with those units (especially Treos), I decided to give the BlackBerry 8830 a try, and am I glad that I did. I've had the opportunity to own/use this unit for several months now. There is just no comparison. The 8830 lives up to its promises, and is actually enjoyable to use.
This model is
- Reliable: It just works, and it keeps working. No hiccups, malfunctions or resetting.
- A Great Business Tool: As a PDA power user, I need a unit that reliably synchs wirelessly with our mail server to keep my email, calendar, contacts, tasks and notes current. The 8830 does this real-time without getting bogged down and crashing. It excels in this area.
- Readable: You can change the default screen font in the Options settings to enlarge and/or embolden the display text across all functions.
- Call clarity: Conversations are clear and audible on both ends.
- Smart: RIM built in some nice behavior that changes the display brightness with environmental lighting and also changes the ring mode when the unit is holstered.
- The keyboard offers excellent tactile feedback.
- The blue-tooth has worked with headsets and hands-free speakers nicely.
- Robust: I dropped the unit a few times (once on a marble floor), and it still works great.
I've found several minor drawbacks:
- The ringer, even when loudest, isn't quite loud enough in noisier environments. Often, I won't hear the ringer in the car.
- There is only 1 alarm. I've been accustomed to having the ability to simultaneously set alarms that ring during the week, on weekends, etc. The 8830 offers these modes, but not concurrently.
- The speakerphone volume isn't very loud. Honestly, this seems to apply to most of the phones that I've owned.
- I've had problems with the voice-command accuracy.
Recommendation:
This is likley the best SmartPhone I've ever owned. Its very functional and very reliable. I highly recommend it.


Click Here to see more reviews about: RIM® Blackberry 8830 Worldphone For Verizon (CDMA)

With the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition smartphone, you'll enjoy fast, clear communication from Verizon here in the United States as well as seamless voice connectivity as you roam the globe. It's the first CDMA BlackBerry smartphone capable of roaming globally on GSM/GPRS networks, so you can travel the world with full mobile voice and data coverage without having to change smartphones, phone numbers or email addresses.
This sleek and performance–driven smartphone has been redesigned with trackball navigation and a new backlit QWERTY keyboard. It also offers support for Verizon's high-speed EV-DO data network and built-in GPS so you can take advantage of Verizon's optional VZ Navigator turn-by-turn direction service. And it continues to offer all the communication features that you've come to expect from Blackberry smartphones, including email served up by the BlackBerry Internet Service and a full menu of messaging options (SMS, MMS, and IM). Other features include Bluetooth for communication headsets, MicroSD memory expansion up to 4 GB, and an integrated digital audio player.
Dual Connectivity Perfect for the fashionable world-traveling professional, the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition and Verizon Wireless' Global BlackBerry service allow customers to access e-mail and place and receive domestic and international calls in Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and parts of Africa. When used at home here in the U.S., you'll connect to Verizon's 800/1900 MHz CDMA network, as well as its 1xEV-DO 3G high-speed data network--which offers download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.)
But when you're traveling within a GSM network coverage area (900/1800 MHz) outside of the U.S. provided by Verizon Wireless' global roaming partners, the 8830 provides easy voice connectivity while roaming the globe. To use the 8830 outside of the U.S., customers should dial *611 from their Verizon Wireless phones to add global service to their calling plans before they leave home. You will also need a SIM card to use the phone on a foreign GSM network. (Note that you won't be able to access GSM here in the United States, as U.S. networks use the 850/1900 MHz GSM spectrum.)
Verizon Service Options Getting on the Internet is easy using Verizon's Mobile Web 2.0 package, which allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. Verizon's Get It Now wireless download service is also fully compatible with this phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Get It Now service.
With this GPS-enabled phone, you'll be able to access Verizon's VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps.
With BroadbandAccess Connect (subscription required), you can use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable--or open a Bluetooth connection--enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The tethered modem capability is ideal when you're traveling and need to use your notebook to check email, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with BroadbandAccess Connect, you won't have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.
Phone Features The BlackBerry 8830 World Edition features a large high-resolution color display and intuitive trackball navigation to help you easily view e-mails, attachments, videos, and Web sites, and a back-lit QWERTY keyboard that makes it easy to send e-mail responses or instant messages with Mobile IM. The improved BlackBerry Browserhas a new "Page View" option that displays a full web page on the screen along with a magnifying glass that allows the user to quickly and accurately point and zoom in on a specific area of the web page.
The large screen has a 320 x 240-pixel resolution with support for up to 65K colors--plenty of real estate to view your e-mails, Web browser content, messaging sessions, and attachments. It comes with a 64 MB internal memory that can be expanded via optional MicroSD memory cards (up to 4 GB).
With a BlackBerry data plans from Verizon, you can receive e-mails instantaneously from up to 10 e-mail accounts (personal and enterprise). And with BlackBerry push technology, you don't need to retrieve your e-mail. BlackBerry devices are designed to remain on and continuously connected to the wireless network, allowing you to be discreetly notified as new e-mail arrives. Support is also built-in for viewing e-mail attachments (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, WordPerfect, and PDF formats).
The digital audio player lets you listen to your favorite tunes stored on optional MicroSD cards, as well as play video files in vivid color. Shuffle your songs or enjoy your favorite playlist while you reply to messages. It supports MP3, AAC/AAC+/eAAC+, and WMA file formats. The Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity enables you to talk handsfree with a communication headset as well as use the phone wirelessly as a modem.
Other features include:
Phone as Modem Capable: Use the included USB cable to connect to laptops for a wireless modem, or choose to run this capability via Bluetooth with no USB cable requirement.
Bluetooth version 2.0 with the following profiles: HFP (hands-free car kits), HSP (communication headsets), DUN (dial-up networking), OPP (object push for business cards, calendar items, and pictures), PBA (transfer contacts)
Dual–band 800/1900 Mhz 1xEV–DO networks
Dual–band 900/1800 Mhz GSM/GPRS (outside North America)
64 MB Flash Memory/32 MB RAM
BlackBerry 4.2 Desktop Software
Ringtones: Polyphonic (MP3, MIDI) + vibrate
Password protection and keyboard lock
2.5mm headset jack
Hearing Aid Compatibility = M4/T4

Vital Statistics The BlackBerry 8830 weighs 4.6 ounces and measures 4.5 x 2.6 x 0.55 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 220 minutes of talk time, and up to 216 hours of standby time on CDMA networks. When on international GSM networks, the phone provides up to 300 minutes of talk time and up to 384 hours of standby time. It runs on the 800/1900 MHz CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO data network when on the Verizon network in the US; in international territories, it's compatible with 900/1800 MHz GSM/GPRS networks.

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Motorola DROID A855 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)UPDATED 5/14/2010 WITH COMPARISON TO NEW HTC DROID INCREDIBLE
If you're considering getting a Droid with Verizon, you should probably also consider the HTC Droid Incredible. I have one now and can tell you how they compare. (My wife's new-every-two came up and she kindly took my 6-month-old Droid off my hands so I could use her discount to get an Incredible. Is that true love or what??)
The first difference you notice is that the Droid has a physical slide-out keyboard while the Incredible does not. This makes the Incredible thinner and lighter (4.6 ounces compared to the Droid's 6 ounces). The weight difference doesn't look like much on paper, but it feels significant.
Other differences:
- The Droid's battery lasts a couple hours longer than the stock battery that comes with the Incredible.
- The Incredible's MP3 player has better sound quality when using good earphones or plugged into the car stereo. The Droid's sound quality isn't bad at all, but it's not up to par with the iPhone or iPod touch. The Incredible's sound quality is similar to iPhone / iPod touch.
- The Droid has 3 customizable home screens, the Incredible has 7, plus a cool way to navigate among them by seeing a thumbnail of all 7 at the same time. (I can't imagine filling up all 7, I've only filled up 2 of the 7.)
- Multitouch pinch and zoom is implemented better on the Incredible than on the Droid, though the new 2.1 Android software update that all Droids should have now has improved it substantially on the Droid.
- The Droid comes with a 16gb micro SD card, the Incredible either comes with none or with a 2gb card (mine came with none, but Verizon sometimes includes one). However, the Incredible has 8gb of internal flash memory, which is plenty to get started, and you can add a micro SD card later if you want.
- The Droid's camera is definitely not below average, and sometimes takes really good pictures. The Incredible's camera takes better pictures indoors and similar or slightly better pictures outdoors. The Incredible's camera has 8 megapixels, the Droid's has only 5. But 5 is as good or better than the vast majority of camera phones, and besides, if you set your camera at the maximum resolution, your pictures will take up more memory. With any camera, 3 megapixels is plenty enough for most purposes, including getting sharp 4" prints if you want them.
- The Droid's speakerphone is a bit louder than the Incredible's. The difference is not huge, but it's noticeable.
- The Droid runs the standard Android operating system, version 2.l. The Incredible includes that plus includes HTC Sense, which adds a few nice tweaks to the basic Android software. I don't think the difference is enough to influence most people's purchase decision.
- On paper, the Incredible's internal processor is faster than the Droid's. But I do not notice any difference in performance when running the same apps on both phones side by side. And the Droid's processor is faster than almost every other smart phone.
Overall, both phones are really really excellent, both are very fast, both have huge beautiful displays, and both have tons of great features. You can't go wrong with either phone.
I think the choice for most people will come down to the physical keyboard vs. thinness/weight issue, and possibly the camera if you like using your phone to take a lot of pictures.
That's the end of my update. Here's my original review of the Droid (sorry for the length!):
---------------------------------------------------------------
I wanted an iPhone bad, and finally gave up waiting for it to come to Verizon. Got a Droid and am very happy with it.
The screen is awesome - bigger than an iPhone's and more dense with pixels, so images are very sharp. The colors are great, and the screen is nice and bright. I had a Samsung Rogue for about 10 days. Everyone raved about the Rogue's screen. The Droid's screen blows it away. The touch screen is accurate and responsive, and very intuitive to use. About as good as the iPhone but much better than every other touchscreen phone I've tried and better than a few cameras with touchscreen controls.
The Droid's display is sharp enough and wide enough to view most web pages - including those not specifically formatted for mobile phone browsers. Because of this screen and because of the way that the Android OS implements the browser, surfing the internet is very easy, intuitive, and pleasant. Much less horizontal scrolling/panning. Much better than most phones I've tried, including the Samsung Rogue and Blackberry. The iPhone's browser is also a pleasure to use, but the Droid's screen is better at displaying full web pages.
Email is very well-implemented in the Droid. I was already a Gmail and Google calendar user before getting my Droid, and the level of integration is amazing, thanks to the Google Android OS. But any Android phone will also handle most other popular webmail, like hotmail, and also can sync with Microsoft Outlook and similar programs.
The Droid's call quality is good, and the speakerphone is loud and clear enough to be useful in most places. I get slightly better reception with the Droid than with my previous Verizon phones, especially in places with poor network coverage.
The Droid's built-in Facebook app is good, but is not as full-featured as the iPhone's FB app, which has been around longer and had more time to be improved. Yet, the Droid's FB app is as good as or better than FB access I've seen on most smartphones, including Blackberry and especially the new Samsung Rogue.
One extremely cool thing is you can easily import the contact info from all your Facebook friends into the Droid's contact manager, including their profile photo, email, phone, birthday, etc. Then, from your contact list, you can tap on any of their names and with one touch either call, email, or jump to their FB page. This is very well-implemented and easy to use, and makes the Droid's contact manager highly useful.
The Droid has pretty good voice recognition. I can tap the microphone icon in the upper right corner of the screen and say "Starbucks" and the Droid will show a list of the nearest Starbucks - and then I can pick one and either touch the phone number and Droid will call it, or I can touch the address and Droid will show its location on a map and give me driving directions.
Droid like all Android phones has Google maps built in, including satellite view, and Droid can give you directions (from your current location or any location) just like Google maps on a computer.
What's more, Droid has built-in GPS functionality and can give spoken directions, just like a Garmin GPS. I tried it and it works pretty well.
Loading music and photos onto the Droid is as easy as dragging and dropping files from your computer to a thumb drive. Droid's music player is not as refined as iPod/iPhone, but it is easy to use and works great. If you have an iPod, you probably have lots of music tracks in AAC format. The Droid will play them no problem, as long as they don't have DRM copy protection (and most don't nowadays). The Droid also plays MP3 and other formats.
The Droid has the standard 3.5" headphone jack so you can use it with any earphones, unlike some phones that have a non-standard jack. To judge the sound quality, I listened to the same track on the Droid and on an iPhone. Using $100+ headphones, the sound quality was better on the iPhone, but the difference was harder to notice with cheaper earphones or through my car stereo. Yet, the Droid's sound quality is as good or better than other music-playing wireless phones, and I've tried quite a few.
I have not yet loaded videos on the Droid. But I have watched streaming video, and it is very smooth, studder-free, and looks really great, best I've ever seen on any phone, including the iPhone and iPod touch.
The Droid comes with a 16GB microSD card. These normally go for 40 to 50 bucks at least, so I'm really grateful that Verizon and Motorola included it with the phone. It can hold a ton of music, video, and photos. For comparison, the highest-capacity iPod Nano also has 16gb of storage.
Plus, the Droid has internal memory for apps and its own operating system, so your phone will still work in the unlikely event the SD card ever fails. (My Droid worked fine even though the Verizon store guy didn't insert the SD card correctly when he set up my phone and the phone didn't recognize it. I reinserted it later and all was fine.)
The Droid's interface and OS (Android) is not quite as polished as the iPhone's. But it is still excellent, VERY easy to learn, and very easy to navigate around and use. Like most phones, the Droid is highly customizable (ringtones, wallpapers, placement of your favorite widgets and icons on your home screens), and the Android OS makes it super easy to do so.
The Droid has one-touch access to the Android app market, which has 10,000 apps so far. I've downloaded a couple dozen. There are lots of good ones, but overall the Android app market lags the iTunes app store in selection and quality, and specific apps available for both platforms tend to be a little better on the iPhone/iPod touch than on Android.
However, the Android app market is much younger than iTunes app store and is growing very quickly. Until the Droid, there were only a few phones running Android. That number will at least double over the next few months, and the number of people who use...Read more›

Click Here to see more reviews about: Motorola DROID A855 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)

The first Android-powered phone for Verizon Wireless, the 3G-enabled Motorola DROID smartphone offers a full package of powerful mobile connectivity--from easy access to all your social networks and viewing of full Web sites, to spoken turn-by-turn directions thanks to the new Google Maps with Navigation Beta app. One of the thinnest full-QWERTY slider phones available, the Motorola DROID also features a high-resolution 3.7-inch touchscreen display and a virtual onscreen keyboard that auto-rotates depending on the phone's orientation. You'll also be able to capture high-resolution images and DVD-quality videos on the go with its 5-megapixel camera with flash.
With integrated Google technology, the Motorola DROID brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by Voice, YouTube, and Picasa. The DROID also provides easy access to both personal and corporate email, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail.

In addition to 3G connectivity, the DROID offers Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home networks, business networks, and Wi-Fi hotspots while on the go, and Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free devices and stereo music streaming. Other features include memory expansion via microSD memory cards (a 16 GB card is included with the device), threaded text and picture messaging for seamless on the go conversations, Visual Voicemail capabilities, 3.5mm headset jack, and up to 6.4 hours of talk time.

Here are just a few of the things that the Motorola DROID can do for you:

Zip through the Web: Access the Internet at 3G speeds via the nation's largest and most reliable 3G network, or from any Wi-Fi hotspot. The multi-window HTML browser with a massive processor delivers the Web the way you expect.
See it all in cinema-style: View the Web, email, Google Maps, videos, and more on a brilliant 3.7-inch high-resolution screen. Boasting a width of 854 pixels to reduce the need for side-to-side panning, and more than 400,000 pixels total, DROID has more than twice that of the leading competitor.
Run multiple applications at once: Customize your DROID with thousands of applications and hundreds of widgets available at Android Market. Toggle back and forth between up to six applications at once to juggle the universe and your apps.
Perform Google Search at the speed of sound: Simply tell DROID what you're looking for using voice-activated search, and it will serve up Google search results based on your location. If you want more, just type what you're looking for into the search bar on the home screen and DROID will also search content on your phone, such as apps and contacts, and the Web.
Capture moments: Snap digital camera-quality photos with a 5-megapixel camera loaded with the works, including a dual-LED flash, auto-focus, and image stabilization, or capture your friend's antics in 16 million colors with DVD-quality video capture and playback. Store it all on the included 16 GB memory card, so you always have it on hand.
Multi-task like a master: Keep tabs on all your messages with integrated Gmail and Exchange email pushed directly to you, but don't let them get in your way. With the handy Android notification panel, go straight to the message or simply ignore it, and get back to the task at hand. And, a smart dictionary learns as you type and automatically includes your contacts.
Get where you need to go with Google Maps Navigation (Beta): DROID is the first device with Google Maps Navigation, providing turn-by-turn voice guidance as a free feature of Google Maps. It's powered by Google and connected to the Internet. Use voice shortcuts and simply say "Navigate to [your destination]," and you'll be on your way. See live traffic, use Street View or satellite imagery to view your route, and get access to the most recent maps and business information from Google Maps without ever needing to update your device.
The Motorola DROID comes pre-loaded with a variety of Google and Verizon Wireless mobile services, including:
Google Maps: With layers in Google Maps, view geographic information, such as My Maps, Wikipedia, and transit lines, right on the map.
Gmail: Multiple accounts support and undo for common operations.
YouTube: One-touch recording and playback from home screen widget or app, one-touch sharing with friends, and the ability to view your own uploaded videos and high-resolution videos.
Google Talk: Easily switch between chats, search your chat history, and preview pictures and videos sent by links.
Android Market: Browse and download applications created by third-party developers.
Calendar: Ability to see who has R.S.V.P.'d to your meeting invitations.
Amazon MP3 Store: Download the latest tracks over the air.
Verizon Wireless Visual Voice Mail: Delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions.



Key Features and Specifications
Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV–DO, Rev A network
Powered by the Android 2.0 operating system with deep integration of Google services and access to thousands of apps to customize your phone via the Android Market. Built-in GPS with turn-by-turn directions provided by Google Maps, and voice prompts using the Google Maps Navigation (BETA) app.
3.7-inch touchscreen with 480 x 854-pixel resolution and 16 million color depth
Full slide-out QWERTY keyboard with familiar layout lets you type messages easily without scrolling for the letter you want.
5-megapixel autofocus camera also includes multiple scene modes, white balance settings, image quality choices, macro setting, multiple color effects, and geotagging capabilities.
DVD-quality video capture at 720 x 480-pixel resolution and up to 24 fps capture; up to 30 fps playback
Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home networks, business networks, and Wi-Fi hotspots while on the go.
Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile--enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 32 GB (16 GB card included).
Multi-format digital audio player with dedicated Amazon MP3 Store app for over-the-air downloads. Includes compatibility with MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+, and WMA formats, and the capability to create and manage playlists on the phone.
YouTube app for streaming video over 3G and Wi-Fi connections.
Real HTML Web browsing provides more pages and better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone (Android Webkit HTML5-based browser).
Standard voice mail and compatibility with Verizon Visual Voice Mail (subscription required), which enables you to delete, reply, and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, the ability to save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text, or even voice mail.
Email: Corporate (Exchange 2003 and 2007), Gmail, IMAP, POP3, Attachment and browser document viewer (Microsoft Office and pdf)
USB 2.0 connectivity
3.5mm Headset Jack
Bilingual Interface: English/Español
Cortex A8 processor with dedicated HW Acceleration
Memory: ROM: 512MB; RAM: 256MB
TTY compatible
Hearing Aid Compatibility = M3/T3

Vital Statistics The Motorola DROID weighs 5.96 ounces and measures 4.56 x 2.36 x 0.54 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6.4 hours of talk time, and up to 270 hours (11.25 days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV–DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.

What's in the Box Motorola DROID handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, 16 GB microSD card, quick start guide, user manual

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