Amazon.com Product Description

The Audiovox "Vox" 8500 features a speakerphone, polyphonic ringtones, support for Virgin Mobile wireless Internet services, and much more. This sporty companion will keep you in touch with style to spare. It's the perfect complement to Virgin Mobile service.

Design
The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a black and white display that features five selectable backlight colors. Meanwhile, monochrome supplementary display on the outside of the cover displays incoming call information, battery life, signal strength, graphics and more.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 top right side of the unit houses an extendable antenna while the phone's charging port is housed on the unit's bottom edge. The phone also features a standard jack to accept universal hands-free headsets. Up/down keys are located on the left side of the unit for quick volume control.

Calling Features
The 8500's built-in address book can store up to 99 entries for quick and easy management of your contacts. The phone comes with built-in polyphonic ringtones plus a vibrating alert. Ringtones can be assigned to specific callers so you don't have to look at the phone to know who's calling. Voice dialing is supported, as are voice commands, so you can both dial numbers and control certain functions of the phone without ever touching it. A built-in speakerphone lets you talk handsfree while you're on the go.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The 8500 covers the messaging basics with support for sending and receiving text messages easily and quickly (Virgin Mobile text messaging charges apply). 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.

The phone fully supports Virgin Mobile's wireless content service, VirginXtras. Use the pay-per-use service to download ringtones, get content and vote in TV-based polls via the MTV area of your phone, or get jokes and updates from Comedy Central. Pick a celebrity voice to answer your voicemail, or get a Sponge Bob thought of the day. Need to jog your memory? Use Virgin's wacky song ID service. Press the Song ID command, point your 8500 towards a song that's playing in the room, and within minutes a text message appears identifying the song's title.

The 8500 ships with a number of handy tools including a calendar, a calculator and an alarm clock.

Entertainment
The phone features custom Virgin Mobile graphics-- screen savers, wallpaper and menu icons-- that let you dress up your phone to suit your personality.

Vital Statistics
The Audiovox 8500 weighs 3.2 ounces and measures 3.3 x 1.6 x .90 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 2.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 110 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the CDMA 1900 frequency. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Audiovox 8500 handset, AC charger, lithium-ion battery, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• No prepaid minutes included. Comes with battery and charger
• Seven changeable backlight display colors to match your mood
• External Caller ID Display: know who's calling without opening your phone
• 2-way text messaging, 1-touch and voice dialing
• Charger included for powering up

Reviews (159)

no problems for over a year
Let me start by saying I've owned this phone since it came out with no problems to speak of, even after being chewed up by the dog, and thrown from a second floor window by the good ole ex.Let me also state that I hate cell phones.I don't like being reached and hate carrying things that make my pockets buldge out, or paraphanalia which would look right at home on Batmans utility belt (yup, I'm not batman).
With that said, I think you should understand why I don't care if a phone has pretty graphics, a color screen, a camera, a million differant options and/or color cases to show your teeny bopper friends just how cool you are.
I probably make and recieve two to three calls a week, and I pay the minimum.I think it's something like 7$ a month, and I have more than enough minutes for what I use it for.If I want to make a phone call, well, I also pay for a house phone, and am lucky enough to have a job which supplies me with yet another phone.And somewhere inbetween the two, I make very few phone calls.
I suppose in the end if you don't make a lot of calls, then this is perfect.It fits nicely in the glove box, and is cheap. And I also live in a large city (chicago) and it works everywhere perfectly, even when I've driven to the south east all the way out to north cali.The only place I don't get reception is in my office, which is fine, because it has a phone already in it.
I thank Virgin Mobile for making a phone for people like me (people that need a mobile phone ONLY because this new bopper phase of spoiled convienence has eliminated almost all pay phones-i despise all of you)

Small.....But everything else a "BIG PROBLEM!"
DO NOT BUY THIS PHONE!!! I have had enough w/ it! This is probably the worst phone ever made! I live in a major city and yet do I ever have a decent reception! I have no problem with the company (Virgin Mobile)....just the freakin' phone! There are sooooo many cons about this phone! No games, Speaker volume will fade for no reason, Phone will shut off when in silent mode and turn back on all loud and evrything (which really sux when im in class), Then after using it for like 10 min. (like txt messaging or VirginXtras) the phone will heat up so bad to where it starts to burn ur hand!, LCD Background colours suck! U can't read anything, No good txt message memory, Speakerphone will turn on in the middle of a conversation (OUCH!).....Thankfully this phone broke after 3 frustrating yrs. (it's a pretty strong phone...I give it that) So im now thinking of upgrading to the VOX 8610, But still paranoid if the 8610 will be like the 8500....

My Review
I think this phone is the perfect starter phone for a teenager. This was my second cell phone ever. And I just recently bought a new one to upgrade. It works great, I get great reception. (I'm in PA) I took it to FL with me last summer and it worked great! If you are one of those "high tech" people. This isn't the phone for you. But for starters, it's great.

Spend the extra $20 and upgrade
I really, really didn't want to purchase yet another phone.For over 10 years I have had a mobile plan and every time I switch companies they make me buy a phone (please, please recycle your old ones.Target takes them.Ok, off my soap box)So I wanted to get the best deal, so I went for this phone since it was on clearance for $80.Big mistake.

To be fair, it's a great looking phone...from the outside.It's the smallest one I have ever seen.But it has a "black and white" screen-- so dated.For $20 more you can get the 8610 and get a full-color screen.The phone is a little bigger (I mean a LITTLE bigger) but the screen is the best.The 8500 does have a backgroung color (choice of 8), but it only stays on for 20 seconds max. and then turns to that outdated green screen with grey lettering.

This was the very first phone Virgin ever had and the 8610 is an upgrade in ever sense of the word.Better screen, better ring tones, better reception.I switched and you should too.You won't be sorry.

But hey, if this model goes on *super-duper* clearance, go for it!It's sweet, and looks and feels great.But I wouldn't pay more than $50 for it.

Decent
Firstly, I do not believe any Virgin Mobile phone is meant for the serious cell phone user. With no free nights or weekends and having to pay 25 cents a minute for the first ten minutes you talk a day (10 cents a minute after that), you rack up the bill pretty fast.

There is a serious convenient factor, seeing how you can actually pay your bill from your phone.

It's not very manly either. As said in other reviews, the screensavers are Sunflower, Cuddly Bear, and Flower Cart. You cannot download others from this phone.

If you like MTV and Comedy Central, you're in luck because so does Virgin Mobile. You can get various features from each channel sent to your phone for a fee.

All in all, if you talk alot, go for something with free nights and weekends on a service plan. If you need a phone for emergencies, this is your man (or girl). ... Read more

Features

• Internal display of 7-9 lines, 4096 graphic colors, 120 x 160 pixels
• High quality audio features real musical ringtones
• Downloadable applications such as games, graphics, and images help create your own unique experience
• Email pictures wirelessly right from your phone to any e-mail address
• Includes camera attachment, battery, headset, charger and user documentation

Reviews (6)

Horrible battery life...
The battery life for this phone reminds me of my old bulky analog Motorola phone.I must charge the phone twice-a-day.Whenever I use it to make a call, I have to be sure to plug it into the charger.

The only good thing about this phone is that I can now trade it in on a better cheaper phone.

Next cell phone please!
We have owned this phone about 16 months. Others on the web have found the hinge would eventually break.
Not ours. We suffered a bad case of LCD screen noire.It looks like a badly miscolored computer monitor. Except that much of the screen is black and it's not fixable by degaussing or anything but replacing the LCD = the entire phone.
And I thought cellphone insurance was for those who lose their phones or abuse them.
Ha! No, insurance is for flashy phones like this one. Stay far away from this shiny junk.

has many faults
I bought this phone with a Verizon service and from the first days I started to face sevral problems. My main objection is the battery consumption. It is huge. I had to put the phone on charge at least once a day. A 15min call could drain the battery. I have seen other phones with color screen and their battery works much longer. The phone would "hang" like a computer at times, so that the screen froze and there was no response by pressing any key. The only thing I could do was to take out the battery, put it back again and restart the phone, which was frustrating.

The quality of sound in the receiver was bad too. With just a little background noise, I coud not hear the caller anymore.

The only thing I liked very much about this phone was the calendar and scheduler, that had almost the same capabilities of a handheld. I would organize all my events and activites by my phone. Also the desktop was convenient as I could customize for the icons I wanted to see as fast links and I could choose to show 4 of them on screen.

Decent, but room for improvement
I've had this phone for about a year and half now, and have been mostly pleased with it.My main gripes with it are:
1)The joints squeak and crack after about two weeks of normal use.To people on the other end, it sounds like you're typing on a keyboard while speaking.
2)I've had a few instances where the phone would freeze up.Turning off the phone and then restarting it always fixed this.
One of the other reviews stated it had short battery life, but this hasn't been a problem at all for me.
Overall, if you have the opportunity spring for one of the newer Motorolla versions.As I understand it, they've fixed many of these issues in later models.

Good phone, with some compromises
Right now I currently have this phone through Verizon and am generally pretty happy with its performance.I almost always have a signal and the color screen has good resolution for a phone. There are a few things that I must say though.In the 2 years that I have had this phone I have had to replace it twice, once because it stopped turning on, and another because it wouldn't hold a charge and was acting really glichy.With normal use the charge will last maybe 24 hours then it is dead.If it is roaming for a signal or I'm playing games it won't last anywhere near that long.As long as I remember to throw it on the charger every night this is not a problem for me because I don't use the games feature (through Verizon it is a rip off).I have also seen an attachment that will take pictures with this phone, but why suck the batteries taking pictures when your going to need it for your phone calls.Overall this phone has served the purpose of sending and receiving my phone calls and text messages relatively well, there have been many situations where friends and family haven't been able to talk and I have, even the other Verizon users. If you are looking for more though, the battery life is just not enough on this phone.I must say though that for $60 you can buy a bigger battery, but that makes an already relatively big phone by today's standards even bigger and I think that it only gives you twice the capacity. The way this things uses the battery when the screen is on I don't know how far twice the battery will get you. ... Read more

Amazon.com

If you liked the Samsung A400, you’ll love the A460. With the A460, Samsung has kept all the great attributes of the A400 while adding a few polishes that make the A460 one of the sleekest phones on the market. Like it’s predecessor, it’s packed with easy-to-use features, such as voice-activated calling and one-touch Web access. It also retains the elegant two-tone silver finish. But it’s both lighter and more compact and includes an outside LCD screen, which allows you to see the time, date, and battery life without opening the phone.

About the size of a deck of cards, the phone weighs 3.4 ounces and measures 3.4 inches by 1.81 inches by 0.83 inches. Despite its size, the phone has a solid construction and opens and closes easily without feeling flimsy. The extendable antenna seems a bit fragile and thin, but with a bit of care most callers should have no problems with it. Also handy are the volume and ringer controls on the side of the phone, which let us adjust the phone volume instantly while waiting in line at a coffee shop.

When we opened the phone and switched it on, we were pleased to see that it powered up and was ready to use in about 10 seconds--an impressive feat given the graphic-rich content of the start screen. The keypad is practically flawless, leaving enough space between keys for error-free dialing for those with bigger fingers. The directional key, situated top and center, is a bonus, letting us browse through the phone’s many menus and options without a hitch, which was especially handy while using the wireless Web. The eight-line screen is nicely proportioned and easy to read, both in text size and image clarity, and the four-color gray lends depth to the screen images, giving them a polished look. The soft electric-blue backlighting made dialing a taxi a breeze in a dimly lit lounge. Changing the phone’s ring tones was simple too--the hard part was choosing one of the 23 tones offered. Eventually we settled on a rather psychedelic version of Ludwig Van Beethoven’s Fuer Elise. Ringer volume is also easily adjustable, with eight levels of sound and a vibrate mode that ensures you won’t miss a call. The phone is also equipped to work with downloadable ring tones, available from Sprint for a minimal fee.

One of the best features the SPH-A460 offers is its one-touch wireless Web access. The OpenWave Mobile Browser connected quickly and information from the phone’s preprogrammed news, weather, and entertainment sites loaded smoothly and were easily navigated. Built-in GPS technology lets the phone access location-based and 911 emergency location services (where available)--handy for accessing driving directions or pinpointing where you are when lost. Best of all, the phone is enabled for voice dialing, and we were able to program and call numbers within minutes of picking up the phone. Voice-activated dialing worked well whether we whispered or yelled into the phone, but understandably, it did seem to have a slight problem with our commands as a garbage truck rolled past. Calls were clear and a bit on the loud side, even with the volume turned to the lowest level, but we’ll take too loud over too quiet any day.

Besides the excellent calling features, the e-mail, voice-memo recorder, fax, address book, calendar, and two-way text messaging make the phone an ideal tool for business trips, keeping you connected in more ways than with just a phone call. Or, if you find yourself stuck in an airport or on the train, you can pass time trying to master one of the three rather enigmatic games: Push Push, Fly Ribbon, and Spider Hunter.

We were quite happy to see the battery life exceed Samsung’s guidelines in our testing. The phone held a call for more than 3 hours, and remaining on for 180 hours in standby mode, as compared with its manufacturer rating of 2.4 hours digital talk time and 170 hours of digital standby time.

Once again, we’re thrilled with this solid new addition to the Samsung legacy, and can only look forward to what they’ll come up with next.

--Steve O’Neil

Pros:

• GPS technology for access to location-based services
• One-touch Web access
• Graphic-rich 8-line screen
• Voice-command capability
• Sturdy flip design

Cons:

• Call volume a bit loud
• Games simple, somewhat confusing

How We Tested Battery Talk/StandbyTime

When reading our reviews, you should view the test results of mobile-phone battery talk time and standby time as relative information only. Many variables,including carrier signal strength at your location, signal consistency (including incoming and outgoing calls), display and ringer settings, and battery charging methods and history, will affect performance. When handset manufacturers and mobile phone carriers list talk-time and standby-time ratings, they usually include disclaimers about variable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times. Some quote expected battery life ranges, and in this case you're probably safe to assume you'll experience at least the minimum rated range. Note that manufacturers of dual-mode digital and analog handsets publish battery-life rates for both digital and analog modes, as analog mode consumes much more power than digital mode.

Our Tests: We tested digital-mode talk and standby times with each phone. Prior to each test, we fully charged the phone's battery according to the manufacturer's directions. To test digital-phone talk time, we turned the phone on, established a digital carrier signal, dialed a number in our test lab, and,when the call rang through, took the receiving phone's handset off the hook. When all went well, we didn't do anything else except record the time when the phone died. In a couple of cases, the phones lost the signal and dropped the calls. If we were right there and could redial, we did so immediately and continued running the test. Otherwise, we halted the test, recharged the battery, and started the test over. Assuming consistent carrier-signal strength, this test should represent best-case talk time. And it's worth noting that several phones' talk-time performance significantly exceeded the manufacturers' ratings.

To test digital-phone standby time, we turned the phone on, established a carrier signal, and left the phone in standby mode. We checked the phone everyfew hours (for what was often days on end) until the phone finally cut out. Since no outgoing or incoming calls occurred during testing and because thephone was not moved, this method should represent best-case standby time, again assuming consistent carrier signal strength.

... Read more

Features

• External display shows incoming call phone numbers
• Compact design with slim profile
• Large screen displays up to 8 lines of text, 4 shades of grayscale
• Supports downloadable ringers, images, and wallpapers
• Full width keypad supports larger buttons, allows easy operation

Reviews (11)

Loved it until it died.: (
Loved, loved, loved this phone - cute, lightweight, easy to navigate, well-lit display, good reception, good audio, good battery life - until the external display and then the internal display died.From what I've heard, this is a VERY common problem with this phone.So buyer beware.However, if you can get it with an extended warranty, I'd say buy it.It's that good, when it works.

Screen problem
Although 2 or 3 years old, this is a very nice phone, and with phones today having cameras and walkie talkies and whatnot, this phone is actually smaller than most of the phones on the market today.

The problem is that the screen does go dead. Just like the other reviewers, I lost my screen after two years, and I have to turn the phone all the way off and all the way on again to get it back.

But that's not the worst part. The worst part is that you then have to deal with Sprint customer service. I called their independent insurance provider, who told me they couldn't replace the phone unless I went to a store to have it repaired first. After waiting two hours I finally got them to put in a new screen. Three days later, the screen died again. I fully expect to get the runaround again from the insurer.

Ugh.

pleased, but time to upgrade though
I know I might be a bit late with this review.however this phone has served me well over the past 2 years.I see that other have had screen problems but mine never had an issue.there were a few times however that the phone did erase my entire phonebook and that is why I gave it 3 stars. the reception was always good, the sound was nice, the clarity of calls was always excellent.I have no complaints about this phone other than the phone book being erased, and that is a big deal.

The ony thing I really hated about this phone was having to be tied into sprint PCS.Because that is part of the phone I will just quickly put out my experiences with sprint.Horrible customer service, several times my phone was shut off by accident.I was told that a customer in my area had a phone number just 1 number different from mine that kept forgetting to pay their bill and that was the reason.No compensation for the time I lost however.Also if you sign up for their optional services be prepared to have them for the duration of your contract.I have tried over 20 times to cancel a minutes reminder I signed up for, as a free trial for 3 months, that now I have been charged $1.50 a month for 2 years because they won't cancel it.I have talked to customer service reps, managers, even tried to cancel online through the sprint website, with no success.Sprint modifies it's plans without warning or notification to you.I also found it hard to obtain new ringers or wallpaper for the phone.It's not neccessary but it is promised by sprint to be easy.the only good thing about the service was the clarity of calls and the reception was decent in my area.However this doesn't outweigh the negatives and I'm switching to T-mobile, who also has good clarity and reception here,my wife has been using them for 4 years now with no problems.My contract is up at the end of this month and so is my time with sprint.

I am however buying another samsung phone.

Wonderful Phone - screen goes dead after a year
Like the other reviews on here, I too love this phone.

It's small (small enough to fit into your pocket), has a loud ringer and the call volume is amazing. I'm never saying "What? What did you say?"

I received this phone for free for a replaecment of my previous cell phone from Sprint. I was pleased.

About a year and a half after receiving the phone, the display went blank. This included the display on the outer side of the phone.

I took it back to my local Sprint store to find out that it was a defect in the phone and could be repaired for free.

The panel was replaced and worked again for another two months before it went blank yet again.

Sprint was good on replacing the phone and I received a new one.

I have no complaints on the phone itself, only that the screen is defective.

Standout in the second generation phones
This phone is now sitting in the closet of my home.It worked for a little more than two years before it had display problems.I had to turn it off and on again in order to retrieve my phone book entries.During its prime, the phone worked well for me.I will miss it! ... Read more

Features

• Wrap your phone with your choice of convertible covers depending on your mood
• Surf the Internet quickly and easily with mMode
• Personalize your phone by downloading themes and polyphonic ring tones
• Enjoy built-in games and text messaging
• Comes included with charger, headset, and SIM Card

Reviews (20)

cute, but fragile
I got this phone because it was the smallest available -- It fits into any pocket. I have never seen anyone else with it.
You have to use a lock code to keep the buttons from being pressed. The speaker on mine has a volume problem so I have to use the headset all the time - which drains the battery very fast. I like its features and the menus are easy to navigate, but the Calendar/Alarm program is terrible and I never use it. It's very cute but I am going to have to buy a new phone with a working speaker and a better locking system, this one is not convenient as a cell phone should be.

Cute but not the best
Got this phone for $20, AT&T shipped within 2 days.
- mMode button on base keypad is HORRIBLE. I kept accidentally connecting to the Internet, which was not part of my plan. I got sneaky, went on AT&T's site, and found out how to configure my Internet settings. I set everything wrong. SO when I hit the button it cannot connect. Problem solved. But still a wasted button.
- took me a few days to figure out how to lock keypad. If not, I was calling everyone in my address book from my purse. Opps.
- battery life is very poor, after 2-3 hours talking need to recharge right away
- cannot find replacement battery
- buttons too small for text messaging regularly
- cute design--I've never seen anyone else who has one. Get lots of "cool phone" comments, if you're into that.
- fairly dependable reception. Only a few dead spots, spots that seem consistent with other people's phones.
- generally little interference, although does occur occasionally
- every once in awhile it will have a "reverb" effect, where everything you say is repeated so it sounds like there's 2 of you saying the same thing. Creapy.

I wouldn't get rid of your landline for this one, but it's a fun little phone. Of course, now mine's broken because I dropped it in a river. Oh well. Go figure. Add that to the list: not waterproof. :-)

First time buyer, rethinks Motorola C333
I bought this phone a little over 7 months ago. I thought that the Motorola company was a respectable company to buy from so I invested in the C333. It's actually a little awkward using in the hand - the buttons are located too low. I almost feel like it's slipping out of my hand. I do though enjoy the lighted number keypad. Lately, I've been told that many people can't reach me. The phone doesn't ring so I don't know someone is calling me. I only find out after talking to the irate person in person. I don't know if this is a problem with my service provider or with the phone. But because no one else complains, I have to think that it's the phone. The battery lasts a few days for me, so that is not a problem as is the case with other reviewers of the C333. I think my next phone will be a Nokia.

Does this phone use SIM card then I can change to another ?
Does this phone use sim card? If so, I can changed to another phone for just use the sim card?
Thank you for your reply.

Fico
I enjoyed this cell phone. This is one of the best cell phones i ever bought.
It has everything. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This Nokia 5165 model, which works with AT&T's Wireless's prepaid service, has quickly caught on in popularity. Like its predecessor, the 5160i, the 5165 is a lightweight personal phone with impressive talk and standby times that's loaded with classic, simple-to-learn features. Its changeable faceplates, 30 different ringers (and room for five downloadable tones), and an expansive world of accessories add up to a fun general-purpose phone that's a perfect fit for prepaid use. And handy refill cards allow you to purchase additional airtime minutes whenever you need them.

Weighing in at 6.2 ounces (including battery), the 5165 measures 5.2 inches high, 1.85 inches wide, and 1.2 inches deep. It's extremely rugged, and should stand up well to being thrown into bags and briefcases or occasionally dropped. And, its dual-band/trimode operation ensures you'll be able to receive cellular service anywhere it's available. The addition of predictive T9 text input, wireless business cards, and e-mail capabilities make it a viable business communications tool as well.

Four buttons handle most menu navigation: a hefty "Navi" key in the middle, up and down arrow buttons that control volume during calls, and a key marked "C" for "clear". Menu navigation is very intuitive. A tap of the Navi key brings up the first of a series of graphical menu items. Hit Navi again for additional menu options, or tap the up or down arrow keys to select a different menu. Top-level menu choices are a phone book, messages (SMS and voice-mail alerts), call log, settings (for calls, phone, and security), system, games (Memory, Snake, and Logic), clock, tones, and keypad lock. The brightly backlit display works well with the control keys to simplify finding and making choices. In text mode, the phone provides five 16-character lines.

The 5165 lets you choose from 30 preprogrammed ringer tones, and you can also download an additional five from AT&T Wireless's Web site. Although there's no internal vibration mode, an optional vibrating battery is available. You can store electronic business cards in your phone book. Any friend or associate can forward his or her name, number, and e-mail address to your phone, and you can automatically store the information with some deft menu navigation.

One caveat regarding faceplates: In theory, all 5100-series faceplates should work with this phone, but in practice, only Nokia-brand faceplates seem to work. The problem is the keypad, the thin rubber pad inside the phone on which the actual keys are mounted. We tried several different faceplate models (both Nokia-branded and after-market models) and found the 5165's original keypad will not accommodate non-Nokia faceplates.

The 5165 supports the usual array of call and messaging features, including caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, and voice-mail. A call history stores the last 10 numbers dialed, the 10 most recently received calls, and the last 10 missed calls. The phone supports two-way SMS text messaging, but isn't Web-enabled.

The 5165 offers four basic security features: an initial security code, a keypad lock, call-restriction modes, and a lock code that can activate or deactivate memory and menu options. The lock-code feature lets you store numbers in a secret unlocked location, allowing you to make calls even if the phone is locked.

The 5165's NiMH battery is rated to last up to 180 minutes of digital talk time and 200 hours of digital standby time. In our testing, we achieved 180 minutes of digital talk time and over 225 hours of digital standby time.

Overall, Nokia's 5165 is a noteworthy and reasonably priced prepaid phone. Choose your favorite faceplate color and ringer tone and start dialing!

--Brown Consulting Associates

Pros:

• Changeable faceplates
• Portable; intuitive to use
• 5-line screen
• Huge range of Nokia and third-party accessories

Cons:

• Lacks standard vibration mode
• Not Web-enabled

How We Tested Battery-Talk/Standby Time

When reading our reviews, you should view the test results of mobile-phone battery talk time and standby time as relative information only. Many variables, including carrier signal strength at your location, signal consistency (including incoming and outgoing calls), display and ringer settings, and battery-charging methods and history, will affect performance. When handset manufacturers and mobile-phone carriers list talk-time and standby-time ratings, they usually include disclaimers about variable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times. Some quote expected battery-life ranges, and in this case you're probably safe to assume you'll experience at least the minimum rated range. Note that manufacturers of dual-mode digital and analog handsets publish battery-life rates for both digital and analog modes, as analog mode consumes much more power than digital mode.

Our Tests: We tested digital-mode talk and standby times with each phone. Prior to each test, we fully charged the phone's battery according to the manufacturer's directions. To test digital-phone talk time, we turned the phone on, established a digital-carrier signal, dialed a number in our test lab, and, when the call rang through, took the receiving phone's handset off the hook. When all went well, we simply recorded the time when the phone died. In a couple of cases, the phones lost the signal and dropped the calls. If we were right there and could redial, we did so immediately and continued running the test. Otherwise, we halted the test, recharged the battery, and restarted the test. Assuming consistent carrier-signal strength, this test should represent best-case talk time. It's worth noting the talk-time performance of several phones significantly exceeded the manufacturers' ratings.

To test digital-phone standby time, we turned the phone on, established a carrier signal, and left the phone in standby mode. We checked the phone every few hours (for what was often days on end) until the phone finally cut out. As no outgoing or incoming calls occurred during testing, and because the phone was not moved, this method should represent best-case standby time, again assuming consistent carrier-signal strength. ... Read more

Features

• No prepaid minutes included. Comes with hands-free earbud headset, battery and charger.
• Simple-to-use navigation buttons and graphical screens, easy-to-read, large 5-line screen
• Changeable faceplates allow you to customize your phone
• E-mail and wireless business-card capabilities
• Allows you to migrate to a postpaid plan (credit check required)

Features

• Send and receive data via infrared and Bluetooth technology
• Equipped with E-mail, text messaging, picture messages, and Voice dialing, recording and commands
• Up to 5 hours talk time and up to 14 days standby time
• Phone book with up to 500 contacts, with multiple phone numbers and text entries per contact
• Wallet provides storage for confidential information such as credit card numbers, user names and passwords

Reviews (2)

Nokia 6310i cell phone
I'm not sure if this Nokia 6310 is the correct designation as the write-up on it does addresss bluetooth and infra-red capabilities which I know the 6310i model does have. As the other reviewer points out, other than being a great work horse of a phone and good value for the price there's not much more to say. If your looking for a phone that's a party in your pocket, this isn't it. But if you want a phone that's reliable, takes voice commands, stores more numbers than you'll ever need, has great reception, and just does what a phone is supposed to do, this is it.

A good phone, but very outdated
This is a solid phone all around. It doesn't have a color screen, it doesn't have a camera, it doesn't have wireless bluetooth technology or the hottest games around, but what it does do it does very well. It has very good audio quality and good singal strength. It is all around a great phone, but does little else but act as a great phone. For someone who doesn't need lots of fancy features and just wants to be able to make calls, this is a good deal. ... Read more

Features

• Equipped with E-mail, text messaging, and picture messages
• Comes with mobile internet capabilities
• Synchronize phone book, calendar and to-do list
• Phone book with up to 500 contacts, with multiple numbers and text entries per contact
• 20 ring tones and 10 picture messages

Reviews (1)

Great phone...
I have had this phone for about a year and a half with Cingular and I have been very pleased with this phone. While this phone is kind of old, it has stood the test of time. I have several friends who hove the recent color screen phones, but the often get dropped calls while this phone keeps its great reception. Hence, I am a little reluctant to upgrade from it unless I truly am sure my new phone will be better. Plus, there are not too many phones that rival the 6590's small size (Please do not complain about the small number keys, how else could they make such a small phone? Plus they are not even too small.)

PROS:
- Excellent reception
- Excellent battery life
- Small size (Big plus)
- Easy to use

Cons (Only a couple minor ones):
- Power button doesn't quite push in that well (It has nothing to do with the size of the button)
- Not too many advanced features (i.e. No bluetooth, no color screen, no camera). This phone was made before these technologies really caught on though. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

This rugged phone is designed to go where you go and keep you in touch through thick and thin. Featuring mobile messaging and wireless Web capabilities, the Motorola i35s is an excellent choice for both business and personal use. And of course, it supports Nextel's legendary Direct Connect walkie-talkie functions so you can connect with people in your work and personal network at the push of a button. And with a wrap-around rubber bumper, it's the perfect rugged companion to a rough and tumble day.

Design
Like other Nextel phones, the i35s is built tough for construction and utilities industry users, or for anyone who needs a rugged wireless phone. The i35s' candybar design features a black and white, backlit LCD that displays time, call information, battery and signal strength, emails, address book entries, wireless web content and more. The trademark Direct Connect and menu scrolling functions can be controlled from the side of the phone. A standard 2.5mm headset jack is also provided, and a multi-directional selection button controls most of the phone's user-friendly menus and options.

Calling Features
The i35s' built-in address book can store up to 250 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. A vibrating alert can be set when you want to receive calls and messages in quiet or very loud situations. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. The phone supports up to 20 voice dialing contacts. A built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear and a three-way calling feature lets you combine two ongoing phone calls into one conversation.

One of the key features of any Nextel phone is support for Nextel's Direct Connect walkie-talkie technology. The i35s fully supports the service, which allows for one-touch conversations with anyone else on a Nextel phone. It's like having a CB radio with enough range to cover all of North America.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The i35s features support for two-way mobile-to-mobile or mobile-to-email text messaging (Nextel messaging charges apply). 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.

Getting on the Internet anywhere is easy with the i35s, as well. Nextel's optional Nextel Online package allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. Nextel Online also features realtime news and sports updates, virtual address books, wireless instant messaging, and more-- all delivered to your Nextel phone.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola i35s weighs 8.71 ounces and measures 5.00 x 1.90 x 1.06 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 2.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 108 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the IDEN 800 frequency. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Motorola i35s handset, lithium-ion battery, battery door, AC charger, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• Features durable rubber grip
• Includes voicemail, mobile messaging, wireless web, caller id capabilities
• Two-way radio function connects directly with other Nextel users at the push of a button
• Personalizable with interchangable faceplates
• Up to 195 minutes talk time, 68 hours standby time

Amazon.com

The Nokia 5125 is a classic handset offered by TracFone, a leading national prepaid service provider. The 5125, matchedwith TracFone's simple and hassle-free service, is a convenient way to own a cell phone without contracts, credit checks,security deposits, monthly bills, or age restrictions.

The 5125 is a lightweight personal phone with impressive talk and standby time that's loaded with classic, simple-to-learn features. Its changeablefaceplates, 30 different ringers (and room for 5 downloadable tones), and an expansive world of accessories, makes the5125 a fun, general-purpose phone. And with predictive T9 text input, wireless business card and e-mail capabilities,Nokia has created a more competent business communications tool (although they have yet to introduce a Web-enabled phone).

Weighing in at 6.2 ounces (including battery), the 5125 measures 5.2 inches high, 1.85 inches wide, and 1.2 inches deep,not counting a stubby antenna that extends another 0.7 inches. As a moderate-weight, midsize phone, the 5125 is highlyportable. It's also extremely rugged in typical mobile phone environments--including being thrown into bags and cases andoccasionally dropped on the ground.

Four buttons handle most of the menu navigation: a hefty button in the middle that Nokia calls the Navi key, up and downarrow buttons that control volume during calls, and a key marked "C" for "clear." Menu navigation is very intuitive. Ifyou tap the Navi key, the first of a series of graphical menu items pops up. Hit the Navi key again to drill down tooptions within the menu or tap the up or down arrow keys to choose a different menu. The top-level menu choices are phonebook, messages (SMS and voice mail alerts), call log, settings (for calls, phone, and security), system, games (Memory,Snake, and Logic), clock, tones, and keypad lock. The brightly backlit display works well with the control keys tosimplify finding and making choices. In text mode, five 16-character lines are displayed.

If you like distinctive ringing tones, you'll be satiated with the 5125, which lets you select from 30 preprogrammedtones. You can also download an additional five ringer tones from your service provider's website, if applicable. Andwhile there's no internal vibration mode, an optional vibrating battery is available. You also can store electronicbusiness cards in your phone book. Any friend or associate can forward their name, number and e-mail to your phone, andyou can automatically store their information with some deft menu navigation.

One caveat worth mentioning: Not all faceplates work with the 5125 phone. Nokia-brand faceplates will work, but faceplatesfrom other manufacturers will not fit the 5125. Although this is a 5100-series phone, the keypad is a unique size, and itdoes not accommodate other manufacturer's faceplates.

The Nokia 5125 has the usual array of standard call and messaging features. If supported by your carrier, you can use thisphone with caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, and voice mail alerts. A call history maintains the last 10 dialednumbers, 10 most recently received calls, and 10 missed calls. The phone supports two-way SMS text messaging, but is notWAP- or Internet-enabled.

The 5125 offers four basic security features: An initial security code, keypad lock, call-restriction modes, and a lockcode that can activate or deactivate memory and menu options. One nice thing about the lock-code feature is you can storenumbers in a secret unlocked location, which will allow you to make calls even if the phone is locked.

The 5125's NiMH battery is rated to last up to 180 minutes of digital talk time and 200 hours of digital standby time. Inour testing, we achieved 180 minutes of digital talk time and over 225 hours of digital standby time.

Overall, Nokia's 5125 is a noteworthy addition to their 5100-series phones. Choose your favorite faceplate color andringer tone and shock the world!

--Brown Consulting Associates

Pros:

• Airtime balance display
• Inexpensive prepaid option
• Easy activation

Cons:

• Lacks standard vibration mode

How We Tested Battery-Talk/Standby Time

When reading our reviews, you should view the test results of mobile-phone battery talk time and standby time as relative information only. Many variables, including carrier signal strength at your location, signal consistency (including incoming and outgoing calls), display and ringer settings, and battery charging methods and history, will affect performance. When handset manufacturers and mobile phone carriers list talk-time and standby-time ratings, they usually include disclaimers about variable performance and often refer to the times they publish as maximum times. Some quote expected battery life ranges, and in this case you're probably safe to assume you'll experience at least the minimum rated range. Note that manufacturers of dual-mode digital and analog handsets publish battery-life rates for both digital and analog modes, as analog mode consumes much more power than digital mode.

Our Tests: We tested digital-mode talk and standby times with each phone. Prior to each test, we fully charged the phone's battery according to the manufacturer's directions. To test digital-phone talk time, we turned the phone on, established a digital carrier signal, dialed a number in our test lab, and, when the call rang through, took the receiving phone's handset off the hook. When all went well, we didn't do anything else except record the time when the phone died. In a couple of cases, the phones lost the signal and dropped the calls. If we were right there and could redial, we did so immediately and continued running the test. Otherwise, we halted the test, recharged the battery, and started the test over. Assuming consistent carrier-signal strength, this test should represent best-case talk time. And it's worth noting that several phones' talk-time performance significantly exceeded the manufacturers' ratings.

To test digital-phone standby time, we turned the phone on, established a carrier signal, and left the phone in standby mode. We checked the phone every few hours (for what was often days on end) until the phone finally cut out. Since no outgoing or incoming calls occurred during testing and because the phone was not moved, this method should represent best-case standby time, again assuming consistent carrier signal strength. ... Read more

Features

• No prepaid minutes included. Comes with hands-free headset, battery and charger.
• Up to 180 minutes of talk time and 200 hours of digital standby time; includes charger, 10 free minutes upon activation, and 100 minutes bonus airtime offer
• Simple-to-use navigation buttons and graphical screens
• Large 5-line screen
• Changeable faceplates allow personalization

Reviews (21)

Tracfone
The tracfones are good for people who don't require heavy cell phone usage. Basically you have to keep the phone active by buying month or year cards. If you run out of minutes then you have to buy more of those too. They have a referral program so if you email me at turshen34@hotmail.com before you activate the phone they they will give both of us 100 Free Minutes.

100 Free Minutes....
i like my tracfone so far. if you decide to get a tracfone please let me refer you before activating it- we will each get 100 free minutes. my email is shown above. thank you

tracfone
The minutes on the Tracfone service can get a little expensive if you use it for non-topic-specific just-to-talk calls to friends, but it does help if you're stranded somewhere and you don't have a quarter or a calling card.Reception in my little part of the country is great; I usually recieve full bars, and considering I live in the mountains of Maine, it's pretty surprising.

Tracfone has a refer-a-friend program in which you and I both get 100 free minutes if I refer you.So if you've bought a 'fone and not activated it yet, or if you're thinking of buying a phone, e-mail me at guardianangelz@msn.com with questions or referral requests.Thanks.

Advice for customer service +300 free minutes
I purchased my phone with a 1-year plan ($8/mo.) and have been happy with both phone and service. Others have posted complaints however. When all else fails, contact the little known Executive Resolutions Department with this link. All one line:

http://www.tracfone.com/about.jsp?task=about&CurrentView=mediaContacts

These guys are a step above the regular customer service and will handle ANY problem.

I travel constantly and have not encountered any problems with reception. I highly recommend either the Nokia 2600 or 1100 because of their no roaming set-up. They are both GSM phones and utilize the same nationwide network as T-Mobile/Cingular.

If you purchase the 1-year card and activate at tracfone.com use the promotional code 57448 for +200 free minutes.

Tracfone also gives +100 free minutes to customers referred to by current Tracfone users. E-mail me at captwilliams@gmail.com for a referral or with any other questions you might have.

If this information is useful let me know!

100 Free Minutes
i like my tracfone so far. if you decide to get a tracfone please let me refer you before activating it- we will each get 100 free minutes. my email is shown above. thank you ... Read more

Features

• This messaging-centric phone features a unique fold-out full keyboard
• Support for concatenated (long) SMS, MMS, POP and IMAP email, and instant messaging
• Includes an LCD 128x128 pixels color display
• Manage contacts, calendar & to-do list with reminders
• Comes with Stereo FM radio functionality

Reviews (25)

Great features, reliable service (now)
I have used this phone and service for about 6 months now.First, let me tell you that I love the phone and service in my area, but it wasn't always so.

When I first purchased the phone, it dropped calls constantly.I finally decided to call AT&T.They were very courteous and knowledgeable.After trying to troubleshoot the phone several times, they replaced my handset.Meanwhile, AT&T merged with Cingular.I'm not sure which of the two events did it, but I now have no problems!The replacement handset works better than the first one, and I think it even came with updated firmware.The coverage has increased to include all of the Cingular areas.I travel a lot, so this is very important.

The games are lame.I love to play mobile games, but the ones that come with the phone did not impress me.I wish it would have other games.I don't find the need to pay for downloading better games either.

Very reliable alarm clock.

I love the keyboard.It's easy to use.I use text message from time to time, and this phone is wonderful for that.I tried to use a Motorola once to write a message, and ended up calling instead, since it was too many darn clicks for me! :)

Synchronizing with the laptop was very easy and effective.I like the fact that you can add different number types to each contact.I tried a Motorola, and had to make a new contact entry for each different phone number for the same person.Not good.Also, I was able to designate a different ringtone for different groups.I found great free ringtone, and even made some of my own with the included software, but only a small percentage worked properly.Perhaps I need to practice more.

Finally, the speakerphone is wonderful, especially if you're concerned about frying your brain!I use it almost anytime I'm not around other people.In fact, I try not to use the phone at all around other people.I realize how much people DOES NOT want to hear my conversations, as I don't want to hear their private calls either!Some folks still don't realize that as a general rule "normal" voice levels increase while talking on the phone.

All in all, I'm happy.I give it 4 stars because of the initial problems.

O:K Range
Phone is very attractive . But is very easy to
break. Nice idea of the Keyboard!!!

The Best
If you like to send text messages, this is the phone to have. It takes seconds instead of minutes to send a message. You don't have to press the number 7 key 4 times to get to the letter S. Just open, type and send. The phone is just GREAT!!!

Front panel and arms split after 1yr
Great concept, I was completely enthralled in the beginning. Then, fine cracks began to appear on the arms, due no doubt to the click lock mechansim always bending them a little. Then, where the contact pins press against the front flip, a crack appeared on the main casing and one on the flip, going right to the first key. Numeric keys stopped working reliably.

I found several similar reports, so I assumed Nokia knew about it.

Sent it back, just 12 days out of guarantee. This is clearly a design fault, not abuse. Nokia were not interested, out of guarantee is out of guarantee, period. Am deeply disappointed.

Next phone will be the Motorola A630. Never a Nokia.

Smaller, faster, cheaper, better than Treo, Blackberry, etc.
Don't follow your friends and coworkers who pay more for Treos and Blackberries, then have to deal with a stylus and/or a teeny, tiny keyboard on a big, awkward, heavy phone. The Nokia 6800 is THE mobile professional's phone and PIM/PDA in one. It has 5MB RAM plus a SIM card to hold all your mobile data, and it really does last 1-2 weeks on a charge.

If you use Outlook or Lotus Notes you can synchronize your contacts, to-dos, memos (notepad notes), and appointments using infrared or an optional USB cable. This phone's perfect for people who do a lot of texting, instant messaging, and email--the T9 dictionary is the best predictive text input tool available and this phone's flip-open, full qwerty keyboard (with keys big enough and spaced out well enough for two-thumb typing to actually work!) makes it quick and easy to type. It also has voice dialing, voice commands, and a voice recorder for when you're in a hurry or have your hands full. And when you're sitting in a meeting without a pen and paper you can type notes on it too--even when talking on the phone, using the speakerphone capability.

This isn't an "everyday person" phone: it's a bit pricier (although you can get it free depending on what provider and plan you choose, and it almost always costs less than Treo, Blackberry, Palm, etc. PDA-phones) because it's not just a phone, it's a PIM/PDA; it only comes with two built-in games (which isn't a priority for businesspeople, although you can easily download additional games and other Java software); and it doesn't have a built-in camera (but have you ever seen a cell phone camera that was any good?).

My only complaints about this phone after having used it for over a year are: the GUI is a bit slow moving from screen to screen; the color display isn't as big, sharp, and impressive as some other phones with, well, bigger and sharper displays--but this phone was designed for text-based features anyway; the calendar doesn't support the complex recurrance and rescheduling features as Outlook so you sometimes get duplicate entries in your phone after synchronizing; the flip-open keyboard has a few characters in odd places that you have to get used to; and the proprietary accessory connector is horrible--impossible to tell whether you've got it upside-down, forces you to use Nokia's stereo headphones for the FM tuner, and often doesn't fully connect in the desktop cradle. Bluetooth and international GSM capability would also have been nice, as would MP3 playback capability.

The best thing you could do is go to a service provider's store where they have a real phone (not a shell) you can hold to see if you like it. If you're considering the 6820 just because it's newer, look carefully at the specifications because they aren't all improvements--also make sure you try typing on both keyboards because they're very different.

Oh one more thing, this phone is very durable, in my experience. I've fallen on it while mountain biking and playing sand volleyball, and while the window did crack, the phone kept working fine and the LCD didn't bleed or anything. I'm pretty impressed about that. Someday I'll send it in for repair, but it'd be hard to live without this phone even for a few days--it stores all my names, numbers, addresses, email addresses, directions to people's houses and businesses, personal notes, to-dos, appointments and meetings...and I probably send up to 50 emails and text messages a day because it's so convenient to type on. ... Read more

Features

• Single-band GSM phone
• High-Speed internet connection using GPRS technology
• Custom faceplates and ringtones
• Up to 200 minutes' digital talk time, 200 hours' digital standby time
• Includes lithium-ion or NIMH battery, charger, and headset

Reviews (13)

Nice & compact - CHEAP too! -- Good for the price
It's cute and affordable. I am a college student and I take this phone with me everywhere. It doesn't have as many functions as some of the other fancy phones, but it does it's job. It has a function to adjust the volume. It can record voice messages. There are lots of functions- you just have to explore it.

The phone is nice, compact, durable and easy to use, once you get the hang of it. I don't see how it got such low ratings from other people.

-G

Short battery + unhappy with AT
Battery rarely lasts longer than 48 hours if I leave it on at night. The wind interfers with the signal when using it outside, even the slightest wind makes it impossible to use the phone. My biggest complaint is with AT

~*******| Can't do any better for a cell phone |*******~
I have owned this model for 12 months now and have NEVER had a problem with it. When I first got it I charged it, then ran the battery down 3X in a row and now the battery easily lasts up to 5 days or a minumum of 3 days with plenty of usage. I have had calls last 4-5 hours without problems. I rarely got dropped during calls. Bottomline, this phone is well worth (...) with my plan, that means I get close to 50% OFF my bill monthly for the entire year.

Ugh
What a worthless phone.Unless you are in a silent place -- like a library where you shouldn't be on the phone in the first place -- the loudest volume is virtually inaudible.Ring tones are not loud enough, wind noise interferes with converstaions when I am outside--I am looking to replace this now, before AT&T gives me a new free phone next Februrary.I can't wait that long!

Does the job, but NOT user friendly...
My husband and I switched to GSM 6 months ago with AT&T(we are happy with our GSM service).We had to get new phones with the new service.We switched from Nokia to Siemens.I have to say that we noticed right away that the C56 wasn't as user-friendly as the Nokia's we had before.However, we got a great deal on the C56's and now we wish we would have spent a little more money on a better phone.

Bottom line:Durable (I dropped it plenty of times!), could hear and be heard clearly, buttons are too small, screen is ok if you like the funky yellow :) and the battery life is pretty short (we end up charging our phone almost every day).The ring tones are hard to hear b/c they blend in with everyday sounds but it is cool that you can record your own voice as a ring tone!Overall a satisfactory phone, but my advice would be to spend a few extra dollars on a different phone and you will be less likely to want to upgrade so soon like we want to. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Overview

Compatible with Cingular cell phone service, the thin, stylish LG G4010 works on dual-band 800/1900 GSM technology, and features GPRS class 10 high-speed data, a WAP Internet browser, EMS, and more, all displayed on a 128x128 grayscale LCD screen.

Calling Features

Used simply as a phone, the G4010 includes vibrate mode, English and Spanish support, a 100-entry phone book with 3 numbers per entry, and 40-chord polyphonic ring tones.

Messaging and Internet

Mobile messaging features are fairly standard: users can send, edit, forward, and receive image and text messages to and from compatible phones or PCs. There's also conventional e-mail, and T9 predictive text input. Using the built-in Internet browser, you can download new wallpaper and graphics, and more games in addition to Black Jack, which is already included with the phone. The phone also supports high speed data download (GPRS class 10).

Organizer

To help you get organized, the G4010 provides a calendar, calculator with unit converter, and an alarm, among other features.

Vital Statistics The LG G4010 runs on an included LiIon battery rated at 2.5 hours talk time and 144 hours standby time. It weighs 2.93 ounces, and measures 3.23 x 1.73 x 0.79 inches. ... Read more

Features

• This dual-band phone is very compact with its thin profile
• Send two-way text messages to your friends with SMS or EMS
• Access cellphone-enabled web sites with the included internet browser
• Download additional ring tones and graphics to personalize your phone
• Comes with 750 mAh Li-Ion battery and AWS Sim card

Amazon.com Product Description

Overview
Compatible with AT&T cell phone service, the BlackBerry 7280 combines a full-featured mobile phone and BlackBerry organizer with a backlit QWERTY keyboard and a host of communication options, including wireless email, text messaging, and Web browsing, all displayed on a 240 x 160 screen supporting over 65,000 colors.

Calling Features
Used simply as a phone, the BlackBerry 7280 fits comfortably in the user's hand, and can send and receive calls worldwide. Its flexible PDA format provides users with a nifty thumb-operated track wheel for extra-easy dialing and menu navigation. The 7280 also includes an integrated speaker and microphone and a hands-free headset, as well as vibrate, icons, and LED icon alert options (in addition to a conventional ring tone) as indicators of incoming calls or data.

Messaging and Internet
The BlackBerry 7280's embedded RIM wireless modem makes available a variety of wireless Internet services, including email with integrated attachment viewing, SMS, Mobile Data Service, and a calendar. Email can be also integrated with existing business email accounts, existing personal email accounts, or a new handheld email account. The 7280's SMS capability enables users to send and receive short text messages independent of an email inbox, and to use the phone's handy keyboard to very quickly exchange messages with other SMS-enabled devices.

Organizer
Organizer features are predictably robust. The 7280's BlackBerry Desktop software (3.6 or higher) works with BlackBerry Enterprise Servers, which are supported by Version 2.1 or higher for Microsoft Exchange or Version 2.0 with Service Pack 2 or higher for Lotus Domino. It also supports Java development platform based on open standards. The BlackBerry Enterprise Server's Mobile Data Service (MDS) enables always-on/push-based access to enterprise applications and information for users running a BlackBerry handheld, browser, and software development tools. Security features include password protection and keyboard lock.

Vital Statistics
The BlackBerry 7280 is loaded with 16 MB flash memory plus 2 MB SRAM, weighs 4.8 ounces, and measures 4.4 x 2.9 x 0.8 inches. Its removable Lithium Ion batteries are rated at up to 4 hours digital talk time, and up to 10 days digital standby time. It comes with a USB cable for charging and PC synchronization, an international travel charger, and a swivel holster.

... Read more

Features

• The BlackBerry 7280 Wireless Handheld is the first tri-band device in the BlackBerry series. This handheld device supports the 850, 1800 and 1900 MHz bands
• The high-end BlackBerry 7280 sports a glorious high-resolution, full-color screen
• High-resolution (240x160 pixel) full-color LCD display with more than 65,000 colors
• You can e-mail, view your calendar, talk, and more with BlackBerry from AT&T Wireless
• Enjoy the simplicity of carrying only one wireless device for all of your business and personal communication needs

Reviews (5)

Root canal is more fun
Wow - hours of frustration trying to get Amazon, AT&T and Cingular to work together!The 1st Blackberry 7280 I received from Amazon was defective - it kept typing Q & A (ironic, isn't it?) whenever I was trying to compose email, dial phone numbers, etc.So I returned it.

The second device has been fine, although the quality of phone calls is much worse than my previous AT&T cell phone (lots of background noise and you have to align the ear speaker exactly perfectly with your ear).Email & battery are great.

But then the real fun started.Shortly after receiving the 2nd Blackberry, Cingular called me & asked if I wanted to migrate to Cingular at no cost. Since I'll probably have to migrate eventually because of the merger, I agreed.Then I found out that to complete the migration, I cannot use my new device, I will have to buy a Cingular device!After talking to about 20 people at Cingular (50% of whom didn't know, and 50% of whom said I would need to purchase a new Blackberry), and talking to AT&T (customer support and retail store), I'm giving up. I have to make another return and reprogram another device. Wish the companies would get together on customer service & the migration.

Do I need this hunk of garbage?
I tried to steer clear of using this PDA/phone/email client because I don't like firm attachments to big geeky items. It's just another ball and chain for your company to use.

Actually when I did get this phone I became glued on the email capabilities. Now I don't have to actually call a person I can just drop them an email. If you're in a theater for example you can message them that you're busy. A great thing about the phone is the QWERTY keyboard, I can't type like a regular keyboard but I know the keys well enough to say I can type with my eyes closed.

As for the phone portion, the sound is really clear but the drawback is you have to align your ear to the hole in the phone which can prove annoying. Also the service for AT&T is really bad in some areas which make you struggle on having a decent conversation, another good reason to have email capabilities. The battery life is great, I've managed to talk 2 hours a day for a week and the phone was just half used.

A note in style, the geekier phones tend to be more bulkier and you can feel the weight on your belt or sticking out. What I've come to do is where the clip outside my pocket and just slide theflat phone easily out when I need to make a call. I don't even notice the phone most the time which is a big plus for me. I can be a geek without looking like one.

3 Service
5 Battery Life
5 Features

Great device. Makes email crunching really easy
I work in silicon valley and get about 150 work related emails and hundreds of SPAM messages every day. My company gave me this blackberry, I call it blueberry bcoz of its color some months back. I forward all my work related emails and filter out SPAM messsages using the online filters provided on the web + my company's SPAM filters. Now when I am travelling, I just keep track of all emails using this. No need to find a wifi location etc. Once you get used to the size, you will love the email + voice convergence. Also the internet access is also quite useful. I can check yahoo email, stock quotes etc from my blueberry.

Near perfect, lack of service if breaks irritating
I've had two. The first broke in the warranty period. The connection between the phone and the hands-free broke at the internal connection. It wasn't the hands free headset or hands-free headset connector - it was the phone. I returned it and got a new one. The connection on this one seemed as fragile as the first. Since I work for a construction company I duct-taped the hands-free to the phone, to help avoid the tugging that seemed to destroy the connection within the phone. The second one broke after about 1.5 months. I simply managed to prolong its life with the duct tape, thereby missing out on the warranty period. Since I spend a lot of time on my cell phone for work I really need and appreciate a good hands-free unit. Now I just have to hold the phone to my ear when I talk. Very inconvenient, so I lose those free hands that help me out during work. Anyway, Blackberry has nothing on its site about service for phones that weren't purchased thru the RIM site, and Amazon has no info on reputable service, or any service plans that I noticed. So I guess I'm out of luck. If the hands-free worked it would be the perfect phone/pda. If I could get service it would be almost perfect. But with the fragile hands-free connection, it falls into the almost great, maybe I should have gotten a disposable Nokia instead, category. Phone voice quality is great, and the PDA is good also. I was able to transfer contacts from ACT, and appointments from ACT, but not perform a true sync. I really wish the hands-free connection on the phone was functional.

Don't count on 24 hour shipment
This is a fine phone, but there may be delays before you get it.Amazon's shipment depends on AT ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The all digital VX4600 from LG is a stylish companion with powerful calling, messaging and mobile Internet features. It's the perfect complement to Verizon Wireless phone service.

Design
The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a large 120 x 160 TFT color display with 65,000 colors. The outside cover of the handset sports a supplementary OEL (Organic Electro-Luminescent) 96 x 38 display that can display time, call information, battery and signal strength, and more. Most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button on the handset's blue backlit control pad. Meanwhile, the top right side of the unit houses an antenna while the USB-capable data and charging port is housed on the unit's bottom edge. There's a standard jack to accept universal hands-free headsets on the left side of the handset.

Calling Features
The VX4600's built-in address book can store up to 499 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. The phone comes with 36 built-in polyphonic ringtones plus a vibrating alert. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. The speed dialing feature allows you to dial up to 99 numbers virtually instantaneously. A built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear and the VX4600's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The VX4600 has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging. Support is built in for sending and receiving text and graphics via messages. 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.

Getting on the Internet anywhere is easy with the VX4600, as well. Verizon's optional Mobile Web package allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. You can check your e-mail, trade stocks online, compare prices while shopping, access flight information, get movie listings and find directions to the theater.

Verizon's Get It Now wireless download service is also fully compatible with the VX4600. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads and digital photo-sharing tools using the Get It Now service.

The VX4600 ships with a calendar and scheduler, a voice memo application with up to 4 minutes of record time, and a notepad. An alarm clock, calculator and world clock are also included, as is the very handy restaurant tip calculator. Never dine without it!

Imaging and Entertainment
The VX4600 is BREW enabled, meaning it supports games written on the BREW platform. Games are available via the Get It Now service. The phone also features customizable theme colors, 14 built-in screen backgrounds and fonts so you can make your phone reflect your personality.

Vital Statistics
The LG VX4600 weighs 3.38 ounces and measures 3.43 x 1.81 x 0.98 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 200 minutes of digital talk time, and up to 165 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800 frequency. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
LG VX4600 cell phone, desktop charger with adapter, standard lithium-ion battery, holster, user's manual, welcome CD, quick reference guide. ... Read more

Features

• High-end quality, style and essential functionality
• Cool clamshell design, high-resolution internal color display
• OEL (Organic Electro-Luminescent) screen make an undeniable statement of style.
• Blue Backlit Keypad & 5-Way Navigation Key
• 36 Embedded Ring Tones plus Vibrate Mode

Reviews (7)

Nice solid basic phone, but with some little drawbacks
One of the most solid phone I have seen, nice touch, but the exterior is too smooth, i have drop it several times because I don't have a good grip of it, and I miss the grip I can get from Motorola V300. The screen is very dim, even it's at max bright ness. I think LG intentionaly make the low end phone screen this dark, so I will like the more expensive one. If all u need is making calls, this is fine. If you have a polorized sun glasses, don't get this phone. The screen look completely dark under polorized sun glasses. Ring tone is so loud, even the lowest setting will scared me when it rings. No single ring tone does not scare me from this phone. No speaker phone, oh, i miss speaker phone. Lucky I switch to VX6100, which has a very good speaker phone. Battery don't last that long, but I never run out of it. I like the dock charger, even it's large, but I will always like to put my phone on the charger, that's why i never run out of battery.the external sub screen is probably the biggest attration of hte phone, but it don't seem the visible under sun light.