HTC Touch Dual - Smartphone - 3G - WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM - slider - Windows Mobile Review

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(More customer reviews)The HTC arrived as expected and very fast (On Time).
Excellent seller ++++


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HTC T7272 Touch Pro Unlocked Full Keyboard Touch Screen Quad Band Phone (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)The following review is for the XDA Serra, O2's UK version of the HTC Touch Pro (also known as the Raphael, T Mobile MDA Vario IV, AT&T Fuze and Sprint Touch Pro).
This is my third O2 XDA model. I`d previously used the XDA Mini S (aka HTC Wizard). I'd grown fond of the XDA Mini S but recall that the phone was a dog until O2 issued a major ROM upgrade about 6 months after its release.
In looking for a replacement for the XDA Mini S, I had the following criteria in mind;
* 3G (HSDPA) capable
* Good touch screen quality
* Single-handed operation
* Decent QWERTY keyboard - for me a must-have
* Preferably Windows Mobile 6.1 based (I'm wedded to a number of Windows Mobile applications including Outlook & Excel mobile, Ilium eWallet, Memory Map and Tom Tom Navigator)
* Good camera quality a nice-to-have but not paramount
* Available on an O2 UK Tariff (I wasn't prepared to pay a SIM-free price).
Candidates included the HTC Touch Pro, Sony Xperia X1, Nokia E71 and Samsung Omnia i900. I must confess to a (possibly irrational) antipathy to all things Apple so didn't consider the iPhone 3G, though I have no doubt that the iPhone is probably more user-friendly. It's the proprietary lock-ins with Apple that get me. The HTC Touch Pro is categorically not an "iPhone killer" (though the newer HTC Touch HD may well be).
The truth is, all of HTC's smartphone offerings have been exercises in managed expectation. They promise so much on paper but so often fail to deliver in terms of practicality. I often wonder if the professional reviewers who rave about HTC phones have actually used them in anger or are simply beguiled by the impressive specifications.
The Touch Pro is, along with the Touch HD, by far the best phone HTC have ever produced, but it is not without its flaws. I will admit that in the first few days of having received the XDA Serra I found the Touch Flo interface and GPS performance so frustrating that I seriously considered returning it to O2, but having persevered for a fortnight or so I am now much happier. So far, this is how the pros and cons stack up for me:
Pros:
1. Size, form factor and build quality.
2. Excellent screen resolution (640x480) and quality. Visibility in sunshine is very good.
3. Excellent slide out keyboard - far and away the best available.
4. Excellent phone sound quality.
5. Good 3G (HSDPA), Bluetooth and FM Radio performance.
6. Touch Flo interface makes single-handed operation feasible but the gestures take some getting used to. Helps to have small fingers.
7. Accepts up to 16GB microSD SDHC cards (though the need to remove the back cover to insert the memory card is seen by some as a disadvantage - personally I prefer it this way)
8. Magnetic stylus is less likely to drop out and get lost.
9. Uses standard mini USB connector for sync and charge.
10. Can charge from PC USB connection.
11. As with all Windows Mobile devices, syncing with PC via Activesync is very easy.
12. Huge variety of freeware and shareware available for the Windows Mobile platform, including some alternatives to the Touch Flo interface (mainly still in beta but very promising).
13. Teeter game - which uses the phone's built-in G-sensor - is great fun.
14. Very chic, for those who care about such things.
Cons:
1. Very expensive SIM-free.
2. "Joystick" functionality on central Navigation button is almost completely unusable and is - in my opinion - a significant design flaw.
3. Endurance with standard 1340mAh battery not great (especially if all radio options are enabled) but probably no worse than other phones in this class. Higher capacity (but bulkier) 1800mAh battery packs are available. I personally haven't found battery life to be an issue.
4. 3.2MP autofocus camera is a big improvement over earlier HTC models but is outclassed by the latest Sony, Nokia and Samsung camera phones. The LED camera flash is barely adequate in low light. If you're looking for a digital compact camera replacement this is not the phone for you.
5. Flaky Wi-Fi - needs to be set to `maximum performance' (at the expense of battery life) to get decent reception.
6. Built-in GPS is very temperamental. Initial lock can take anywhere between 5 and 30 minutes, though once lock is acquired, performance is OK in open ground. Urban reception is poor and the Assisted GPS function (which is disabled by default on the XDA Serra) doesn't appear to improve matters significantly. There are some performance enhancing tweaks recommended on various HTC forums, but the phone will never be a match for a dedicated handheld SiRF GPS and I imagine many people will find the internal GPS unusable in practice.
Note that you can always use an external Bluetooth GPS adapter such as the excellent Emtac BTGPS II or the one provided with some versions of Tom Tom Navigator.
7. Touch Flo interface a bit sluggish at times, but can be improved with some registry tweaking (Google the XDA Developers Forum). People who are happy to use a stylus will probably wish to disable the Touch Flo interface altogether.
8. Touch Flo interface cannot be customised, at least not without registry hacks.
9. Pressure needed for some touch screen gestures means a screen protector is advisable (one is provided in the box).
10. No built in headphone socket - needs special USB-to-jack adapter (a handy remote-control adapter with a standard 3.5mm jack is provided in the box).
11. Cannot sync/charge and use headphone adapter at the same time using the adapter provided, though it is possible to buy third party adapters for around £20 which do allow this.
12. Some relatively minor stability issues - expect to have to perform a soft-reset at least once a month.
I expect many of these issues will improve with the next ROM upgrade, though I have my doubts about the internal GPS.
Another reviewer has reported problems with accidental call answering. In fairness this is a hazard with many touch screen phones (I used to find this incredibly annoying with the XDA Mini S) but can generally be easily resolved by installing a freeware screen lock utility. I've found SU2U 1.35 (Slide To Unlock) works very well on the Touch Pro.
If you like Windows Mobile and need a slide-out keyboard, this is undoubtedly the best phone on the market. If you don't need the keyboard, you might want to consider the HTC Touch HD (which has recently tipped the Nokia E71 off the top of PC Pro's smartphone A-List).


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Motorola Q9c Phone (Sprint) Review

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(More customer reviews)I've had my new Motorola Q9c from Sprint for a week now and I have to say that I am in love with this smartphone.
This is my first smartphone and my first time having service with Sprint and so far I've been impressed on both accounts.
Pros:
Great full QWERTY keyboard
Fast EV-DO speeds
Full internet browsing
Awesome e-mail and messaging support
Exceptional battery life
Beautiful screen
Sprint TV
Great call quality
Fully functional GPS (great with Google Maps)
Cons:
Not enough memory
Slight lag at times switching between applications
Thumbwheel implementation could be better
I live in an area (RTP in NC) with excellent EVDO coverage by Sprint so a lack of built in Wi-Fi is not an issue for me like it might be for others so I do not include that as a con.
Thanks to the included extended battery I have had exceptional battery life never once running lower than half a charge a day. And that is including considerable amounts of internet browsing, liberal use of Sprint TV, and having my e-mail set to download every 10 minutes. While some may argue that the extended battery adds to the bulk of the device it's great for someone like me with rather large hands. The phone seems to just balance better than the original Q that a friend has at work. The weight of the device is not an issue as it feels lighter than the MOTO KRZR K1m that this phone is replacing.
I purchased this phone primarily for it's internet capabilities and rarely use it as a true phone. When I do use it to make calls though the voice quality is great. Unless I mention I'm talking on a cell phone no one knows the difference between the Q9c and a land line.
Overall this is a great first smartphone for those new to this category of device.
[Added 11/5/2008]
I've now had my Q9c for eight months and have done the Windows Mobile 6.1 update and I still like this phone very much. It's held up fairly well to eight months of wear and tear and my only real complaint is that dust does collect between the lens cover and the LCD screen but that was an easy, five minute fix at a local Sprint store.
The 6.1 update has made the already good features of the phone great and I still highly recommend this phone to anyone looking for a good beginner smartphone!

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The elegant all-in-one Motorola Q9c Smartphone from Sprint merges business with pleasure with the power of the Windows Mobile 6 operating system and access to Sprint TV. With Windows Mobile 6, 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. Other features include a 1.3-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth connectivity for communication headsets and stereo music streaming, MiniSD memory expansion, up to 7.2 hours of battery life with included extended battery, and fast data download via Sprint's EV-DO-powered Mobile Broadband
Sprint Service Options Supporting the EV-DO high-speed data standard, this phone is fully compatible with Sprint's Power Vision service (additional charges applicable). With Power Vision, you can download and stream high-quality video, straight onto your phone. Enjoy full-color video clips or live TV of the latest news, sports, and entertainment from brands you know, like CNN, Fox, The Weather Channel, NFL Mobile, and more. Power Vision also serves as a portal for enhanced games. Where coverage is available, EV-DO connectivity provides average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps, with peak rates up to 2 Mbps.
With Sprint TV, you can make your RAZR2 V9m your always-on source for news, weather, sports and more. This comprehensive video service combines high-quality streaming audio and video from channels including the NFL Network, ABC, The Weather Channel, Fox Sports, E!, CNN, The Discovery Channel, and more.
The Sprint Software Store, powered by Handmark, offers a wide selection of software, games, ringtones, graphics and other Windows Mobile applications to purchase and download right to your phone.
This phone is also GPS enabled, allowing you to receive audible and visual turn-by-turn driving directions, map your location, or conduct local searches direct from your handset. Sprint Navigation requires a separate subscription.
Phone Features The svelte and sleek design of the Motorola Q9c measures just 0.47 inches thin, and it's complemented by with high-end finishes and soft touch materials. A bright 2.4-inch display (320 x 240 pixels, 65K colors) with smooth lighting transitions thanks to its adaptive display technology enables you to enjoy reading in environments where lighting is poor. The optimized QWERTY keyboard makes quick work of typing emails, SMS messages, notes, presentations and more. It comes with 128 MB of ROM and 64 MB of RAM (45 MB user available), and it's expandable via MiniSD memory cards up to 4 GB. It's also compatible with SDIO cards, offering support for optional MiniSD Wi-Fi cards to enable you to connect to open 802.11b/g hotspots.
The integrated Bluetooth version 2.0 wireless connectivity also includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and audio/video remote control. 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.
Send and receive email from multiple corporate and personal email accounts, including POP3 and IMAP accounts. You can also setup wireless access to Microsoft Outlook email with a direct connection to Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 or 2007. And it supports Good Mobile Messaging for secure, real-time access to email and corporate data. The Q9c can also send and receive instant messages using popular services such as Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and AOL Instant Messenger.
The integrated Windows Media Player 10 Mobile allows you to play your favorite music, videos and more while you're on the go, and it synchs music seamlessly with Windows Media Player 11 on a Windows-based computer. Shoot digital pictures with the embedded 1.3 megapixel camera with built-in flash and 6x digital zoom lens; use the built-in camcorder to record 30 second video clips and play them on the LCD screen. Other features include:
Documents To Go for Windows Mobile: View, edit and create Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files, view Adobe PDF files as well as zip and unzip files on your device.
Built-In speakerphone: Hands-free operation made easy with dedicated speakerphone button, plus advanced voice-recognition capabilities for hands-free operation.
Voice-Activated Dialing: Say the name of the person you want to call, and the phone dials the number automatically.
TTY Compatible: This phone connects to a TTY device, allowing the hearing impaired the ability to communicate.
Hearing Aid Compatibility: M3
Full, ergonomic QWERTY keyboard, 5-way navigation button and thumb wheel
Up to 12 numbers per contact entry with picture and ringer ID options
Stereo Headset jack for hands-free operation and music enjoyment
USB 1.1 wired connectivity

Vital Statistics The Motorola Q9c weighs 4.76 ounces and measures 4.6 x 2.5 x 0.47 inches. Its 1170 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7.2 hours of talk time using the included extended battery, and up to 212 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/1900 CDMA frequencies and is compatible with the EV-DO data network.
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.
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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Pharos Traveler 619 Unlocked Phone with gps navigation, Wi-Fi, Windows Mobile 6.0, 2 MP Camera, Media Player, and MiniSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty Review

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(More customer reviews)Ok, lets face it. This thing costs very little for what it does, and i'm gonna show it some kindness in my review due to that very fact. But also first and foremost, it is a very cheap device for what it can do.
The unit is big, but that affords a bigger keyboard and screen. It has tons more room on the screen than most devices in its category. Plus the larger keys keep me from sitting around re-typing things I have mis-entered. The con is that you really have to use two hands, and sometimes the screen as well to use it. I have big hands, so it isn't any problem for me, but it is almost awkward to use the thing one handed. Small hands beware, you will not be texting and driving with this beast.
GPS and WiFi works good. Cell phone and bluetooth are acceptable. Processor is alittle underpower for all the things you can do with it, but not painfully so. Make sure to get a MiniSD card, because you will need the space to put much of anything on it.
I love it, but I can see the down sides, so make sure you know that this isn't your small 600 dollar smart phone, but it does almost everything that one does.

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HTC Touch Diamond P3700 Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased the European version of the Diamond for use in the US on ATT. I have not had any problems so far with voice service. Data service is slower than I had on my Blackjack, but I knew that would happen. The Diamond has Wifi and it has been easy to connect to my home network and to hot spots to get broadband internet service.
The Diamond was designed to be a one hand device. It really is possible to do everything with one hand, even use the camera. (I recommend using two hands when using any camera for better stability.) The 3.2 megapixel camera isn't bad for a mobile phone, certainly better than many I've used before- when there is sufficient light. There is no flash, so your indoor photography will be disappointing.
The Touch Flo interface which seemed almost like frosting on top of plain old Windows Mobile in other HTC touch devices, is very much a fully intergrated part of the system on the Diamond. It runs very well and is every bit as intuitive as other touch oriented devices. You can turn Touch Flo off, but I don't know why you'd want to.
Diamond's good looks demonstrate that Windows Mobile devices can be great looking as well as powerful. The phone is attractive off or on, but it also great to look at when you're working on it because of the VGA screen. After several days, it still startles me how much clearer text and graphics are on this phone.
Thanks HTC for including the Opera browser. You can still browse the web using pages for mobile units if you'd like with IE, but you will want to step up to the real internet with Opera. Scroll, pan, zoom if you need to, but with that VGA screen, you may not even need to do so.
Battery life on the Diamond is as advertised unless you make heavy use of Wifi or the music player or camera. These will significantly diminish your time between charges.
A few final points: yes, the phone collects fingerprints. So do all touch devices. Sound quality on calls has been good in my experience. Sound quality on the music player is not as good as on a dedicated MP3 device. The FM radio is a great feature. I hadn't come close to filling a 2Gb micro SD card on my Blackjack so the 4Gb internal storage on the Diamond should be sufficient. Will you master every touch move immediately? No. Within a day or so? Yes.
If you live in Europe or Asia or live in the US but don't need 3G service, the Diamond is a great phone. It's pretty darn close to great even with its present US limitation.

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HTC T4242 Touch Cruise Unlocked Smartphone with 3.2 MP Camera, Windows Mobile 6.1, Wi-Fi, GPS --International Version with Warranty (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)Very Much Impressed thus far...nice size in comparison to other smart phones, good battery life and nice reponse time. Everyone loves it. I LOVE the Footprints....

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i-mate SP3i Unlocked Smartphone with MP3/Video Player, MiniSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Silver) Review

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(More customer reviews)Do yourself a favor and heed this warning... and I own this phone, so take it from me...
If you are interested in a Windows Mobile smartphone, look somewhere else. Avoid this phone, and all i-Mate phones, at all costs because if it ever causes you a problem where you'll need support from an actual person, you'll never find it.
Try to send them an email? You'll get a reply in about four or five days. I have tried to get support dozens of times, and each time they reply, they just send me my user name and password for their web site. And then they claim victory and close my ticket.
I've had my phone for 12 months. I still cannot register the phone on their web site for some reason. When I ask them to fix this problem, they send me (you guessed it) my username and password.
Oh, one more thing... the joystick on this phone is terrible. Doesn't work most of the time. Falls out of the phone, sticks to one side, breaks off,... name it.
It's all frustration here folks.
Trust me... phones break for all sorts of reasons. For the money you would spend on this, you can do MUCH MUCH better.
If you read this review and buy the phone anyway, you'll remember this and kick yourself later.
As soon as I find another phone, this one goes in the trash. I'm shopping now.

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This slim smartphone has everything you need to get the job done on the go. In addition to making calls, the SP3i from HTC features email, text messaging, instant messaging and web browsing-- all from one integrated phone. What's more, the unit's software is designed to sync seamlessly with email, contacts and calendar information on your PC. This Smartphone also ups the ante for mobile music and video lovers with Windows Media Player 10. The SP3i is unlocked and will operate on your existing GSM network service.
Design A large 176 x 220 screen dominates the front of the SP3i, while the phone's controls maximize available space on the small unit. The center selection joystick allows you to navigate and control the Windows Mobile interface. Up/down keys are located on the left side of the unit for quick menu navigation. While the phone comes with 64 MB of internal memory, a mini-SD card slot for additional memory expansion is housed underneath the unit's lithium-ion battery. The rear of the phone sports a VGA camera with video capture capability. A power key and infrared port are housed on the top of the unit, while a universal charger/data port and headphone jack are present on the bottom. The VGA (640x480) camera unit is housed in the phone's rear panel.
Calling Features The SP3i has all the latest calling features folks have come to expect, plus full integration with Windows Mobile for Smartphones 2003. This allows you to instantly dial anyone in your Outlook contacts list. Meanwhile, the built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. A vibrate mode, ringer ID functions, and polyphonic ringtones are also supported. The phone's Bluetooth connectivity means that your favorite Bluetooth headset is fully compatible.
Messaging, Internet and Tools The SP3i is designed as a complete solution for people who want to bring their office with them. The unit comes packed with pocket versions of Outlook, Internet Explorer and MSN Messenger. Pocket Outlook features integrated calendar and email functions. Microsoft's ActiveSync software keeps the device synced with all of your PC's Outlook information (via Bluetooth, USB, or IR connection). In addition to Outlook/Exchange Server email connectivity, the Jam also supports POP3, IMAP4 and BlackBerry email protocols. The unit fully supports basic text messaging, as well as multimedia messaging (MMS). Users who want Internet connectivity on the road with their laptop or PDA can select a carrier data plan.
A number of handy software tools are bundled with the SP3i including a voice memo recorder, a calculator, a to-do list, and an alarm clock. T9 predictive text entry technology is also included.
Imaging and Entertainment In addition to a VGA still camera, the SP3i is capable of recording video clips to its built-in 64 MB of memory, or to a MiniSD card. The inclusion of Windows Media 10 on the SP3i opens up a whole range of possibilities for this phone. Use the phone as an MP3 player and discover and purchase more tunes via the Windows Mobile music store. Sync the device with Windows Media Player 10 on your PC to download last night's TV shows so you can watch them whenever you want. For gamers, the phone supports Java-based and Windows Mobile game downloads.
Vital Statistics The HTC SP3i weighs 3.53 ounces and measures 4.25 x 1.85 x 0.79 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4 hours of digital talk time, and up to 200 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.
What's in the Box SP3i handset, applications CD, stereo headset, travel charger, USB data cable, standard lithium-ion battery, user's manual.

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HTC Advantage 7501 (Unlocked) Review

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(More customer reviews)I got mine about 3 weeks ago and have been running it through its paces ever since. Before getting an X7501, you have to realize that this thing is really a mini-laptop/mega-smartphone. It was made for a person who prefers a single device with convergent technologies, the more the better. Besides making calls, I use it to navigate with its built in GPS, surf the web with Opera and/or Explorer via HSDPA/WiFi and run all kinds of windows mobile apps (from a TI-89 emulator to XCOM: UFO Defense). I have plenty of space for several GB worth of music/movies and the 3 megapixel camera is nice (especially the panoramic feature). Oh, and I can cut and paste text too, unlike a certain other iDevice I know... hihi.
Pros:
-The SIM chip from my old AT&T 8125 worked fine with no issues. I was immediately able to access the 3G/HSDPA network (I had been stuck with just EDGE before on the 8125). I have used the X7501 between Princeton NJ and Washington DC with no issues to 3G availability. Subjectively, transfer rates seem to be noticeably quicker than EDGE (several times faster). I had issues with slow Google Maps loading on EDGE, but HSDPA makes the application functional and practical to use while driving.
-WiFi connected just fine. WEP encryption was straightforward and easy to configure.
-Bluetooth headset works fine, but sound quality varies depending on the headset. I use a plantronics voyager 510 for calls (good sound) and Southwing 505 for music (some noise). You can also answer calls using the speaker phone or an included wired microphone. The microphone jack is 1/16" so you can use regular headphones with it to listen to music, but you will have to get an adapter for regular wired microphones or just go with bluetooth.
-I can't tell you how nice it is to have a 5" diagonal screen to surf the web and watch video with. The screen is even big enough to edit Excel and Word documents without going blind.
-There was a nice attachment cable included that allows you to output to a Monitor or TV if it has the connector.
-8GB microdrive AND miniSDHC slot. The 2GB card I have worked fine. I'll have to get a 4GB card to test the high capacity. 8GB+miniSDHC means I have effectively unlimited storage and can transfer files easily.
-WM6 has a feature which now allows applications to truly close when you press X button. No more of that annoying need to go into settings/memory/close all hassle.
-So far, most applications I loaded onto the X7501 work fine:
TCPMP (The Core Pocket Media Player) works. I was able to load and watch an .avi movie. I'll have to watch a long movie all the way through during my next flight out of town to test for stuttering midway through.
Skype installed and worked just fine. No complaints.
OctroTalk (for free GoogleTalk) works fine. No complaints.
VTI Pocket Emulator (free TI-89 scientific calculator emulator) works well. Slightly laggy, but usable. I was able to take derivatives and integrate functions just like on a normal TI-89. Not sure about loading programs to do Laplace transforms etc, but that's hardly a concern for 99.99% people.
GSPlayer was able to play Shoutcast music streams without a problem. HSDPA allows for higher bitrates than I was normally able to listen to using EDGE.
XCOM: UFO Defense (free old PC turn based game ported to WM) worked, although I had to switch to vertical mode.
-Comes with both Windows Explorer and Opera installed. I prefer Opera's tabular browsing and have been using it almost exclusively.
-Battery is removable, so having a spare battery is possible and even recommended. Battery life seems "okay", but I have not done a real runtime test yet. For the most part, I have had it plugged in a lot (either my car adapter for GPS or my laptop at work to stream music). WiFi and bluetooth do seem to run the battery down quickly. I wouldn't count on more than 3 hours of continuous browsing and streaming media.
-Using a universal USB charging port allows for a lot of recharging options and is compatible with my other portable electronics so I carry fewer plugs/cables. Works with my emergency usb charger.
-Nice complimentary leather wallet, screen protector and extra pen included. Small stuff counts!
Cons:
-Out of the box the intro screen says, "Test Only - Not for Sale". A little disconcerting but the unit works fine, so I plan on keeping it. I ordered my X7501 through Amazon a month before release. Hopefully later units don't have this.
-No stand alone GPS software like TomTom or iNavigator. It has Google Maps (which uses the GPS to track and show your location but this requires a data link (HSDPA or WiFi) to download maps, plot routes and get traffic info. It also has TeleNav Navigator (which is a subscription based payware GPS nav system)
-iNavigator 2.1.2 GPS software wouldn't recognize the 8GB microdrive. This was disappointing, but I am thinking of getting OCN6 to run on it since their website claims WM6/X7500 compatibility.
-FreeOTFE(Free On The Fly Encryption) wouldn't install correctly. I couldn't create an encrypted volume. I'll have to do more research to see what the problem is or if it's a PEBKAC error.
-There's no way to get around it. The X7501 is bulky. It fits fine in a pair of cargo pants, but is uncomfortable in a pair of khakis or jeans. It just barely fits. Get a bluetooth headset. You look like an idiot holding this to your ear.
-No vibrate mode to receive calls.
-The VueFlow operation seems kind of gimmicky to me. Basically, the screen will pan up/down/left/right by varying degrees depending on how much you tilt the screen. There's potential here, but it often moves when I don't want it to, so I've disabled it.
Parting Thoughts:
The HTC Advantage X7501 does everything it is advertised to do and is a significant upgrade from a 8125 or even 8525. I chose this over the iPhone because I prefer more functionality when I travel and work. Thats exactly what I got, but at the cost of size and weight. I'll definitely be keeping my other older (and smaller) cell phone around to carry if I want to travel light. On the road however, this is the king of PDAs. I haven't seen anything out there that has the same set of features in one package.

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The most powerful mobile office to date, the HTC Advantage 7501 is lighter, more compact, and more portable that even the smallest PC notebook. Offering online connectivity anytime, anywhere, it's the ideal companion for the business traveller who needs instant access to email and the capability to view and edit on-network Microsoft Office documents, including Excel, Word, or PowerPoint files. It includes a thin, magnetically connected QWERTY keyboard and a brightly colorful 5-inch LCD screen. And with its 3G cellular (HSDPA-ready), Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities, you stay connected to the world.
With the Windows Mobile 6 operating system, you can view and edit Word and Excel documents as well as keep in contact with associates using the Windows Live Messenger IM application. (See more details about Windows Mobile 6 below.) The included Outlook Mobile software offers up-to-date e-mail, calendar and contact information. If you use the Advantage 7501 in conjunction with Microsoft Exchange Server, you can get instant e-mail from your work account as well as enhanced security features that let you clear data from a device if it is stolen or require high-security passwords to access information.
For storage, it provides an on-board 8 GB flash memory and can be expanded using miniSD memory cards. Use the TV Out feature to output contents on the screen onto an external display such as a Projector or TV when doing presentations or sharing photos. It also features a 3-megapixel camera with autofocus and a built-in flash.
Its 5-inch VGA color touchscreen and innovative, magnetic QWERTY keyboard are ideal not just for editing Microsoft Office documents, but also for enjoying leisure time. You can watch videos, browse the web, use instant Outlook push e-mail, synchronize your contacts, tasks, and calendar.
Power of a PC The HTC Advantage 7501 has a huge 8 GB hard drive, 256 MB of ROM and 128 MB of RAM combined with Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.0, so you can run your most demanding business applications and store all the documents and files you need. It runs on the 624 MHz Intel XScale PXA270 CPU with with an ATi W2284 graphic chip.
Global connectivity With its always-on, high-speed global connectivity, the Advantage 7501 keeps you in contact and contactable worldwide. As well as your email being "pushed" to you instantly, you can wirelessly synchronise files when away from the office so you're always up to speed with what's going on in your world.
Communication choices The Advantage 7501's on-board Wi-Fi and stereo Bluetooth 2.0 capabilities open up a world of communication options. It also supports the GPRS data protocol, as well as the high-speed EDGE wireless data service and UMTS 3G wireless broadband. (Note that 2100 Mhz UMTS service is not offered by any U.S. carrier.)
Performance The Advantage has been optimized for outstanding performance, whether it is to deliver the best possible web browsing experience or to give you up to 8 hours of battery life and 5.5 hours of talk time.
Easy to use The Advantage 7501 has a large 5-inch touch screen, ensuring you can easily view and work on your documents, while the detachable QWERTY keyboard makes it simple for you to work with everyday office applications. The color, transreflective LCD screen has a 640 x 480-pixel
Take photos The integrated 3-megapixel autofocus camera takes high-quality images (, 2048 x 1536 pixels), so you need never miss a moment. You can then safely store your pictures on the Advantage's hard drive, or onto an optional MiniSD memory card. You can also shoot videos (352 x 288 pixels at 15 frames per second) in 3GPP and MPEG4 formats.
Multimedia entertainment The 8 GB hard drive can store up to 5 hours of video, 2000 songs or 25,000 photos taken on the built-in, auto focus camera. You can also enjoy high-quality video and music streamed to the Advantage over EDGE and HSDPA networks. Use the TV Out feature to output contents on the screen onto an external display such as a projector or TV when doing presentations or sharing photos.
Vital Statistics The Advantage 7501 weighs 12.7 ounces and measures 3.85 x 5.25 x 0.62 inches. Its 2200 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5.5 hours of talk time, and up to 300 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.
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.
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.

Click here for more information about HTC Advantage 7501 (Unlocked)

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HTC S710 Vox Unlocked Smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.0, 2 MP Camera, Wi-Fi, MP3/Video Player, MicroSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Black/Silver) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased the S710 a few weeks ago and I have been very happy with it so far. I had previously been using a Sony Ericsson W810i which was a great phone for personal use and as an MP3 player, but I needed a smartphone for work. I didn't want something as large as a Blackberry and wanted to avoid a touchscreen and stylus. The S710 was the perfect compromise.
I've never used a smartphone or Windows Mobile before so I can't say if WM6 is any improvement. I was surprised to find while editing my contacts that there is no copy and paste function. I was able to find an add on application but it seems a rather strange thing not to include in a smartphone. The S710 comes with HTC's homescreen and green color scheme which is a color that most closely resembles vomit. This can be removed using a debranding app. On such a beautiful looking device it's a shame that HTC chose such a nauseating interface.
And this is a beautiful phone. The all chrome face is a bit much for my taste, but isn't as prone to fingerprints as I expected and it contrasts nicely with the matte keys and the flat black. The sides and back are rubberized plastic which feels soft but durable in your hand. The QVGA screen is clear and bright even in sunlight.
The phone feels solid and rugged and is surprisingly heavy for it's size. But considering all that's packed into so small a space and the long battery life it's an extra weight I can handle. The slide out keyboard doesn't lock when closed and has a slight wiggle. It hasn't opened accidentally but it's a strange contrast to an otherwise sturdy phone. The keys on the keyboard are small but nicely spaced and give good tactile response. But if you have large primate hands, this is not the phone for you.
The earpiece is loud, which is great for talking on NYC streets, but has noticeable distortion. It bothered me at first since my old Sony Ericsson was so clear but I have gotten used to it now. The vibrate mode is rather weak, and I don't always feel it vibrate especially when I am walking.
The lack of 3G doesn't bother me since I mainly use the data connection for email which EDGE is fine for. The smaller sized screen isn't that great for viewing web pages anyway. WiFi works well and connects to my home access point faster than my laptop. AT&T made a surprising effort at helping me get it set up for data but ultimately I had to find the configuration posted in a forum and enter it manually.
PROS:
Keypad, QWERTY keyboard, smartphone in a small package; I haven't found any other phone like it.
CONS:
Keyboard wiggle
Sound distortion

Click Here to see more reviews about: HTC S710 Vox Unlocked Smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.0, 2 MP Camera, Wi-Fi, MP3/Video Player, MicroSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Black/Silver)

The HTC S710 smartphone is the most compact smartphone with semi auto-sliding full keyboard, and it's one of the first phones to offer the power of the Windows Mobile 6 Standard operating system (for non-touchscreen phones). Practical and versatile, the HTC S710 is ideal for today's business traveler on the go. The sliding QWERTY keyboard will help you type emails quickly and stay on top of your most important documents, and the screen automatically adjusts from portrait to landscape orientation. Other features include Bluetooth connectivity for both communication headsets and stereo headphones, a 2-megapixel camera, and a bright 2.4-inch LCD screen. It communicates over GSM/GPRS networks and offers data service via the EDGE network as well as via Wi-Fi (802.11b/g) networks. This unlocked phone does not come with service or a SIM card.
This new platform provides genuine mobile Office Outlook experience, greater control of Outlook Mobile Calendar, and an improved Internet Explorer Mobile browsing experience. It also offers greater interoperability with Exchange Server 2007, providing you with improved e-mail management (such as Fetch Mail and Set Flags), Out-of-Office assistant, and HTML e-mail viewing capabilities (see more on Windows Mobile 6 below).
The S710's 2.4-inch QVGA TFT LCD screen has a white LED backlighting, 240 x 320-pixel resolution, and 65,000 colors. It comes with a built-in memory of 128 MB of ROM and 64 MB of RAM, and it's expandable via MicroSD memory cards (which currently offer up to a 2 GB capacity). Other features include voice dial and command, loudspeaker for hands-free operation, an external antenna connector, and an 11-pin USB 2.0 port that doubles as an audio jack. And don't forget the S710's Wi-Fi capability, which makes high-speed data access a breeze via an 802.11g hotspot.
The Windows Media Player is compatible with a wide variety of digital audio formats (AMR/AAC/WAV/WMA/MP3). It also offers Bluetooth stereo audio support, enabling you to enjoy your music without any wires. The 2-megapixel digital camera captures still images up to 1600 x 1200 pixels--great for 8 x 10-inch prints, and other photo features include video capture, multi-shot stills, self-timer, and white balance controls.
Vital Statistics The HTC S710 weighs 4.94 ounces and measures 4 x 1.97 x 0.73 inches. Its 1050 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7 hours of talk time, and up to 175 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.
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.
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, youÕre 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.

Click here for more information about HTC S710 Vox Unlocked Smartphone with Windows Mobile 6.0, 2 MP Camera, Wi-Fi, MP3/Video Player, MicroSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Black/Silver)

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HTC Touch Cruise - Smartphone - 3G - WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM - touch - Windows Mobile Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)On paper, this phone has superior hardware and technical specifications compared to most other phones. It also has a current price that's much more than the iPhone and many other phones or pocket PCs.Unfortunately, with this phone, the software provided doesn't come close to taking full advantage of the hardware.
The video and other processing performance is sub-par and worse than earlier models of HTC phones. Though they supplied the hardware, HTC didn't include the driver software necessary to take advantage of this phones high-end processor potential. Primary processing speed is slower than many other phones (even when compared to phones with slower and cheaper CPU's) because of the driver issues and the fact that the new iPhone type user interface (called TouchFlo), is first-generation-clunky.If you aren't particularly interested in watching a lot of video on your phone, the video driver problem is of no consequence. However, the slower TouchFlo interface may be an irritant (four taps on the icon to open a program instead of one). For such an expensive product with a relatively fast processor, it should outperform every other phone on the market . . . but it doesn't come close.
Initially, HTC wouldn't commit to providing updated software to solve the performance problems. Very recently an HTC executive noted that HTC had changed its mind and will eventually provide "video acceleration software," as an alternative to providing better video drivers, and software as an update for the Touch Cruise. Unfortunately, when I called, HTC would not provide an estimated release date for the updates.
I'm not a big Apple fan, but with the iPhone 3G due out in July of 2008,I think most that are interested in this phone should wait a little longer to spend so much money.


Click Here to see more reviews about: HTC Touch Cruise - Smartphone - 3G - WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM - touch - Windows Mobile

Click here for more information about HTC Touch Cruise - Smartphone - 3G - WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM - touch - Windows Mobile

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