Amazon.com Product Description

Compatible with Sprint cell phone service, the Sanyo PM-8200 includes a built-in VGA digital camera with an LED flash, push-to-talk capability, voice dialing, Internet capability, and much more, all displayed on a 1.8-inch, 65k color LCD screen.

See a detailed view of the phone's features

Calling Features
Used simply as a phone, the PM-8200's features include vibrating alert, voice dialing, call screening, a dedicated speakerphone and voice mail button, push-to-talk, and a 300-entry phone book capacity with picture-ID capability. It also supports mobile-to-mobile (walkie-talkie) direct link for up to 6 simultaneous users. This phone supports TTY/TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf) devices.

Messaging and Internet
This phone provides SMS two-way messaging, conventional email, and predictive text assistance, plus picture sharing and voice-memo picture attachment. The PM-8200's Internet connectivity also lets you access online services such as stock quotes, road directions, airline information, entertainment, and more. You can download Java applications (version J2ME) to add additional capabilities to your phone, and high-speed data transfer and download round out the package. The PM-8200 is GPS capable.

Organizer

Multishot feature: Take up to 8 rapid shots in sequence

The PIM organizer included with this phone provides programmable reminders for holidays, birthdays, or other significant dates, an event calendar, to-do list, call alarm, alarm clock, calculator, world clock and more.

Fun and Games
For fun, the PM-8200 sports a built-in VGA digital camera, outfitted with a flash, digital zoom, self-timer, multi-shot capability, plus fun frames, color tones, and a security camera lockout feature. The PM-8200 also features 32 chord ring tone capability, and the usual downloadable ring tones, screen savers, wallpaper, and games, in addition to the ones built in to the phone.

Vital Statistics
The Sanyo PM-8200 weighs 3.64 ounces and measures 3.34 x 1.85 x 1.02 inches. Its Lithium Ion batteries are rated at up to 3 hours talk time, and up to 12 days standby time.

... Read more

Features

• Feature-packed with VGA camera and flash, speakerphone, and dual displays
• VGA camera features auto-focus lens, zoom capability. flash and 640x480 resolution
• Dual LCD/TFT displays offer crisp images in 65,000 colors
• Speakerphone and voice dialing make communication a breeze
• Includes phone, rapid travel charger and user documentation

Reviews (28)

Superb phone with great features!
I have had this phone going on a year now and can faithfully say that I have very few complaints!! First of all the phone has NEVER and I mean NEVER failed me! This will be the 5th Sanyo I have owned, starting with the faithful 4500, and have never been let down. I have seen numerous complaints about sound quality, but short of the volume being a little low on occasion, I cannot see too much fault. The speakerphone is only half-duplex, but most cell phone speakerphones are only HD at the moment. Also you cannot expect board room sound out of a tiny micro-sized speaker! It does very well for its size. Ready link performance is top rate, as well. All in all another great Sanyo product!

Going on 5th bad phone in 5 months...
I bought this phone for FREE in dec 2004. (special)

2 months later the head set wouldn't work anymore. (the head set to plug in the jack and speak hands free, and i have a few plantronic headsets that work great, the big ones.)

Store would not give me a blue one, only silver. 2 months later the head set wouldn't work anymore.

Given the run around at the sprint stores and tech and made to drive over 500 miles going back and forth (in 35 mile increments).

Given 3rd phone, got to my car and started to make a call, head set wouldn't work right out of the box. That's less than 90 seconds after leaving the store.

Given 4th phone the same day (not working this same day, 2 bad phones in the same day) and would keep beeping, the icon for battery would blink from full charge to BEING recharged (not in need of, but being), while half muting the person on the other end of the phone call.

After 4 hours in the store this day, even though they saw it was not working, refused to replace because their tech guy went home and he was required to say it's broken before they change it out.

My previous phone was the sanyo 4900 which i had to replace in the first week, but has lasted for the last 2 years, very dim screen and big, but worked great.

The 8200?, I got it free and it's cost me so much money in time and gas and trouble, feels like It's cost me $1000. By far the worst quality phone I have dealt with in the last ten years.

emailed sprint and they have agree to allow me to take any of their phones and they will credit the 229 list price.
Did not offer to compensate for all the BS their store reps have put me through. Worst people in the world at the sprint store in Asheville, NC... patton ave. Hendersonville road and mall is where you should buy if your in this town.

I've liked sanyo alot, but now I'm almost scared off of them. My old samsung wasn't as strong in reception and battery life, but I'm using cnet to investigate phones that have the same problem with everybody.

I do have a few friends that have not had AS MANY problems as I have had and they are hard on phones, my 4900 still looks new. I'm very easy on my phones.

If I had not gotten 4 bad phones....
just rating the phone on the features and the like, I'd probably rate it 3 stars at best.

The phone is average, imo. The worst thing about the phone, from all the phones, is to listen to a conversation on the phone, you either have to turn the volume down to the lowest, if you turn it up so that you can easily hear the other person the sound becomes very distorted and choppy.

Based on that one thing, I would not suggest buying this phone. Add in the problems I've gotten with the 4 bad phones, I can not give this a good review.

what's up with the hissing on sprint phones?
I got this phone after switching over from Verizon.The first thing I noticed was an audible hissing when I'm talking on the phone.I went to 3 different sprint stores and tried out all the models that were available and there was noticeable hissing on almost all the phones.But most notably on Sanyo models.The phone that had the least background hissing was the LG 325, but I wanted a flip phone.The PM 8200 also has a horrible speakerphone (it's loud, but very distorted and cuts out when there is cross-talking).The PM 8200 also distorts the caller's voice slightly.If you've never had a good cell phone like an LG, (my previous verizon phone was the LG 4400 and callers sounded crystal clear), you may not notice the relatively bad sound quality of most of the Sprint phones.I returned the 8200 within the 14 day period and instead got the Samsung RL-A760.The sound is much clearer on this phone with less hissing, but is slightly larger and does not have a camera.the speakerphone on the Samsung is much better and does not cut out during cross-talking, at least on my end. overall, the PM8200 is a good phone if you can stand the hissing and distortion.

What a great phone...
and it does everything that I could ever imagine (web, pictures, alarms, downloads, speaker phone) - except streaming video, which the newer version (PCS Phone Sanyo MM-7400 (Sprint) has.

One great buy!

GREAT!
This is a great phone! It has all the features such as camera with flash, calendar and other stuff. I have no problems with it except for one. The metallic seems as if it is prone to scratches and it feels awkward when I handle it with extra care. ... Read more

Features

• E-mail, text and picture messages
• User-changeable front and back color covers and keypads
• Send up to 9 picture messages to any compatible Nokia wireless phone
• Internal antenna, internal vibrating alert
• Includes, hands free headset, travel charger, and user manual

Reviews (8)

sturdiest phone i ever owned
dropped it about 200 times over 2 years, last major drop chipped the replaceable front cover. great battery life. i also dropped it getting out of the car into a puddle where it was completely submerged for about 2 hours, where it recieved calls and vibrated, and was still on when i found it. still had no problems after i dried it out thoroughly. this thing is a tank. get it for your kids. beats the hell out of the new blackberry 7290 work gave me. don't get a 7290, so many problems i want to throw it quite vigorously towards the RIM president's face for releasing it too early.

If you're sticking with TDMA for now, give this phone a look
I upgraded to this phone from the Nokia 8260.I've been very happy with its convenience and performance.It's had hard use from me; I've dropped it at least a dozen times and it's been banged around in my carry-on through many flights.It has good reception--noticably better than the 8260, and I like Nokia's intuitive operating system.People complained a lot about the offset keys when this phone first came out, and sure enough, I found it took getting used to.However, once I grew accustomed to the key layout, I found it easier to use without looking--mainly, while driving--than more "standard" keyboards.All in all, this is a light, compact, durable phone, and well worth consideration if you're sticking with TDMA for now.(I've decided to switch to GSM because it's lately giving better reception in the area I often travel to.)

Great Little Phone
This phone is great for people who want their phone to be... well a phone.I got the best range coverage and I never got cut off in the middle of a call.Even with all of my traveling I never had a problem.The battery life is terrific.I could go days before I had to recharge the battery even whan I used it for calls.The internal antenna was a great feature.No more broken antennas from an accidental drop.The phone proved very durable.

This was the best phone I've had.I wish I didn't haveto switch to the GPRS system, it's not nearly as efficient yet.

the best non-GSM phone in a GSM/GPRS world
This is my third Nokia phone with AT&T wireless in 5 years.Previously I had the 6162 and the 8260.I've had this one for nine months now and here are the highpoints.

1.Awesome battery life - a color screen would be nice but the battery life is more important to me.Also shows up better in the sun than a color screen would.
2.Compact size (fits in my pocket)
3.Excellent Coverage.GSM/GPRS phone network is still under construction and will be years before it's close to the size of the older TDMA network.I'm looking forward to being able to take a GSM phone anywhere in the world, but not at the expense of coverage right now.
4.Nokia has the best user interface.
5.Solid but light construction.
6.No Internet crap.I'll use my laptop for that, thanks.Text messaging and short emails are all I need for my phone.

The cell phone sales people are trying HARD to sell those GSM phones but stay away from that for another year or two.I got a good deal on this phone as a longtime customer by threatening to leave and go to another provider if they didn't at least come close to the deals offered to new customers.

Hey, and where do I find that Star Wars Imperial March for a US phone???:-)

the hulk
best phone ive ever owned, and ive had about 7 phones in the last 2 years(i work for a cellphone company).its the most user friendly phone ever. always has good reception, and battery life is awesome, not to mention how sturdy it is. i call it the hulk, ive dropped the phone about 63 times and it still works like brand new. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Compatible with TracFone prepaid cell phone service, the Motorola V120T is a sturdy, midrange phone that features voice-activated dialing and memo recording, text messaging, free voice mail, free caller ID, free call waiting, and much more, all displayed on a backlit grayscale LCD screen.

Calling Features
Used simply as a phone, the V120T features include call timers, redial, missed call indicator, call log, voice activated dialing, any-key answer, auto-answer, auto-redial, dual-tone multifrequency, roaming indicator, speed dial, linked (credit card) dialing, phonebook look-up, phonebook scroll, mute control, no-answer transfer, one-touch 911, system select, usage alert, vibrating ring, and a phone book capacity of 500 entries. There's also 32 different ring tones to choose from and a special TracFone airtime balance display so you always know how much time you've got until the next refill.

Messaging and Internet
The phone's wireless Internet browser provides data transmission capabilities, two-way text messaging with iTap predictive text input, and access to news, sports, weather and more on the Wireless Internet. It also supports digital TTY/TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf).

Organizer
The Motorola V120T's organizer features include a calendar, calculator, alarm clock, voice memo, and more. Using the included TrueSync software and a handy USB connection, you can also quickly sync up data from your phone's organizer with your PC.

Fun and Games
This phone comes with three games, plus access to more via the Internet. You can also swap out the faceplates for others (sold separately) if you wish.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola V120T weighs 4.5 ounces and measures 5.0 x 1.77 x 1.1 inches. Its batteries are rated at minimum 240 minutes talk time and 242 hours standby time. It runs on TDMA service.

In the Box
Motorola V120T cell phone, manual

... Read more

Reviews (1)

Not bad when it actually works
The V120 worked well when I first purchased it but within 2 weeks it started to turn off by itself. After the third week it refused to turn on again...at least the batteries were salvageable. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Compatible with T-Mobile cell phone service, the Nokia 3595 prepaid cell phone is at the top end of Nokia’s entry-level 30-series phones, offering the basic Nokia features plus a digital wallet, voice dialing, data capabilities through its Java support, and advanced messaging. The Nokia 3595 phone comes in the familiar slim Nokia package, but has a larger and unique keypad design and a full 4,096-color display.

Calling Features
For calling, this phone provides a dedicated voice mail button, as well as a voice mail indicator, call timers, redial, missed call indicator, call log, voice activated dialing, any-key answer, auto-redial, speed dial, mute control, no-answer transfer, vibrating ring, differential ring, and a phone book capacity of 500 entries. For hearing-impaired customers, the 3595 offers TTY/TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf) compatibility with the phone adapter.

Messaging and Internet
This device also supports messaging via SMS and MMS, enabling you to create, send, edit, and forward messages with text and images to compatible phones. You can also receive messages with text, image, and sound, and instant message from friends or business associates. The GPRS connection ensures high-speed data transmission over the phone's XHTML browser, providing users with quick access to Internet. The 3959 is also compatible with the many downloadable, Java-based business applications available online. The digital wallet feature allows you to make credit card payments online securely.

Organizer
Organizer features include a 100-event calendar, calculator with currency converter, and an alarm clock that works even when the phone is switched off. The phone book, calendar, and to-do list can be synchronized with a PC using SyncML software over the WAP connection.

Fun and Games
For fun, the Nokia 3595 provides preloaded polyphonic ring tones, wallpapers, animated screen savers, and picture messages--plus the memory to download more. The device also features four games (Backgammon, Sky Diver, Air Glide, and Bowling), and supports changeable covers in various colors (available separately).

Vital Statistics
The phone weighs 3.77 oz. and measures 4.68 x 1.95 x 0.87 inches. Its extended Li-Ion battery is rated for up to 5.5 hours of digital talk time and 10 days of digital standby time.

In the Box
Nokia 3595 prepaid phone, charger, battery, and hands-free headset ... Read more

Features

• T-Mobile To Go is the hassle-free way to stay connected. No long-term contract. No credit check. No deposits or monthly bills.

Reviews (11)

Great Phone, Best Performance!
I bought this phone several months ago because my old (...)cell phone had no reception in the office where I work. I choose this phone because it has an exceptionally high rating for performance on the CNET cell phone reviews (...). This one has at least half the bars all the time and it has never lost signal where ever I have taken, including places where most other phones don't work, even in a basement! It is also a very loud phone with a brightly lit color screen. Although the screen resolution is a little lower than the more expensive models, it is easy to read.

It comes with all the basic features including some nice ones such as wallpapers and screensavers and a nifty feature called timed profiles which means that you set your ring tone and alert preferences and they will revert to normal at a time that you specify. It also includes a basic organizer and comes loaded with 4 games (Sky Diver, Backgammon, Bowling and Air Glide). You can download additional ring tones and graphics but the prepaid plan does not support game downloads. By default it comes loaded with a nice variety of ring tones and most users will find one that appeals to them. Yahoo!, MSN, AOL and ICQ instant messengers are also included.

The keyboard layout is rather strange and that is the only real shortcoming of this phone. However, once you get used to it, it is not a bother. Overall, this is a great little phone which offers exceptional performance and all the basic features. I bought it directly from the T-Mobile website where it was selling for less, so you may want to check the price there before buying. T-Mobile recently increased the minutes that you get from some of the prepaid cards and lowered the limit for Gold Rewards program participation to $100 which makes it an even better deal.

I wasn't that impressed with signal strength
I had this phone with Tmobile. I didn't get signal in a number of areas. My keypad became faulty after 3 months and I couldn't dial certain numbers.My friend had a tracfone and got signal in way more places than I did.(he has the v60i-cdma vers.) I bought a tracfone, had him send me a referral through tracfones promotional referral deal, activated the phone and got 100 free minutes for the referral.I'll send you one if you think you are going to get a tracfone instead,just email me(before you activate phone!). I have the v60i now too and I'm so much happier with it. They also have GSM phones, nokia 1100 and 2600.

3 1/2 Stars...And it's Not Bad
I got this phone free when I signed up for Cingular almost 2 years ago.It's not a bad phone.The ringer can be very loud if you don't set it to the lower volume, which can be a plus if you're in a noisy area, but a minus if you work in an office!

My biggest complaint is because it's not a "flip" type phone, if I have the phone in my purse, it tends to get hit very easily on the number pad and ends up calling a speed dial that I've programmed...not good when someone is listening to you and you don't know it! :0)

It's a little bulky since they can make phones so thin now, but overall, especially since I didn't pay anything for it, I'd give it high marks as far as cell phones go.I don't need a lot of "extra" gadgets, so if they're missing from this phone, I don't miss them.

T-Mobile Nokia 3595 Prepaid Phone
The phone is great and the sound is EXCEPTIONALLY LOUD. If you were in an auditorium or movie theater and want to sneak a game in with the volume at its LOWEST, forget it! Keep this phone in silent mode if you don't want to be embarassed - at the same time, now that the audio quality is pretty good. Reception-wise, the phone can only be as good as the service will let it and within the Washington DC Metero area, I would say that it is a notch below Sprint. Don't expect it to work in every building you go into even if other carriers do. Blame it on coverage, though, not the phone itself. Overall, it's very much so worth it (and cheaper at T-Mobile's website as of this review).

3595 nokia
it has the best signal my mom has a virozon phone and my phone, unlike hers, has color has a strong signal where hers has none and its cheap noexpenive phone bills just puyt 10 dollars in to it and get thirty minutes. best of all no overgages ... Read more

Amazon.com

Nokia's new 5165 phone is a worthy successor to the company's hallmark 5160i, one of today's most popular phones. Like its predecessor, the new Nokia 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. The addition of predictive T9 text input, wireless business cards, and e-mail capabilities make it a business communications tool as well. The 5165's dual-band/trimode operation ensures you'll be able to receive cellular service anywhere it's available. Like Nokia's other AT&T phones, this model does not support Web browsing.

Weighing in at 6.2 ounces (including battery), the highly portable 5165 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. Extremely rugged, it should stand up well to being thrown into bags and briefcases or occasionally dropped.

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. You can also download an additional five from your service provider's Web site, if applicable. 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. If the services are supported by your carrier, you can use this phone with caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, and voice-mail alerts. 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 WAP- or Internet-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 addition to its 5100-series phones. Choose your favorite faceplate color and ringer tone and start dialing! --Brown Consulting Associates & Thom Arno

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

• Simple-to-use navigation buttons and graphical screens
• Large 5-line screen
• Changeable faceplates allow personalization
• E-mail and wireless business-card capabilities
• Up to 180 minutes of talk time and 200 hours of digital standby time; includes NiMH battery, charger, and headset

Reviews (3)

Nice old-fashioned cell phone
It's a little unfair to compare this phone to the latest and greatest, since it's a very old model at this point.I wanted to say that I used this phone for several years without changing to a new phone or getting a new battery, despite the huge leaps in technology.Only this last year did I finally cave in to get a tri-band phone so I could use it on vacation in another country.That is because if you don't need the new-fangled bells and whistles, this phone is extremely durable (dropped innumerable times and kept on ticking) and very easy to use.You can lock the keys so that accidental presses don't dial a number when you least expect it.The navi key and other shortcut keys perform every function with the least amount of key presses possible and it's easy to remember.My new phone is the Motorola V300 and its menu system is much too complicated and cumbersome in comparison to my old Nokia, a result of trying to accomodate all the features in too evenhanded a manner.

The Best Cell Phone In The World
The Nokia 5165 is without a doubt the most sturdy and reliable phone on the market today. The 5165 has won numerous awards for reliability and durability. The cell phone industry has rated the Nokia 5165 "as one of the best cell phones out there." The 5165 is highly recommended.

this phone blows chunks
so this was my first phone received last summer and since then ive wanted to throw it into the ocean everyday.it constantly husts off while you're talking if you move the phone just slightly.things crack and snap way too easily-ive gone through several faceplates beacuse the phone couldnt even withstand a drop form my bed to my carpeted floor.it has no features whatsoever,its impossible to hear even with the volume all the way up, and just recently it has started fluctuating between headset and test mode (???), allowing me to be unable to make nay sort of phone call.AVOID THIS PIECE OF GARBAGE AT ALL COSTS!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Overview

Compatible with Nextel cell phone service, the ultra-durable Nextel i305 packs all the really necessary features of a modern cell phone into a weatherproof frame that's so hardy, it actually meets military standard durability specs. You'll also get speakerphone functionality, two-way radio capability, voice recording, voice activation, and more.

Durability

In our tests, the i305 proved an excellent, practical phone; a serious communication device for users in a rugged work environment, living in harsh weather climates, or just about anyone who needs a sturdy, no frills mobile phone. Hard rubber encasing and interior linings and seals protect the phone’s antenna, speaker, keys, battery door, and accessory connections against water intrusion from rain, sleet, and snow. Further, the Military Standard 810 F certification means that the i305 can also withstand blowing rain, humidity, salt fog, dust, shock, vibration, temperature extremes, low pressure, and solar radiation.

Testing durability

We powered up the i305 and gave it a few casual drops on to a cement floor. It showed no cosmetic damage, and continued to function normally. Next, we took the phone outside and chucked it about 100 feet onto a wet, sandy sidewalk. The phone bounced and skidded, and continued to function flawlessly. Used with a pair of medium-duty work gloves, the i305's tough keys proved perfect in their size and resistance to depression, and the dedicated volume and push-to-talk buttons were well-placed on the side of the phone.

The i305 also cleaned easily--after use with the muddy gloves, we simply ran it under an outdoor tap. Nextel has wisely provided enough space between the keys and phone body so that dirt rinses out instead of getting stuck in the cracks and jamming the buttons. The i305 also sports an appropriately straightforward and easy to read 6-line, green and black screen, which did not fog or show discernable wear under our damage tests or the water bath.

Testing calling features

Used simply as a phone, we found that the i305 provided clear reception, even when used in a closed-off basement with its extendible antenna retracted. We were also able to intuit our way through most of the menus without the manual, using the 4-way scroll key and two command keys for relatively easy navigation. The speakerphone function, important for the outdoor/industrial user, was plenty loud when set at top volume, and easily accessible with its own little button at the bottom of the set. The phone can also be set to connect to the last Direct Connect call or to a previously assigned Direct Connect contact, by pressing the PTT button. Other calling features include vibrating alert, downloadable voice activation, a two-way radio (walkie talkie) feature, customizable ring tones, a 600-entry phone book, keypad lock, voice mail, call forwarding, call hold, recent calls list, 3-way calling, and a small degree of display customization. The i305 can even be used as a modem.

Testing messaging and Internet

The i305's Mobile Internet connection was relatively fast. Some of the preset Web favorites included menus for Business Tools, Text Messages (read-only), e-mail, and the Web. The Web menu included links to news, weather, travel, finance, entertainment, and a few other handy sites (including MSN, AOL, and MBN Audio portals), all providing content that scrolled out nicely on the clear, uncluttered screen. While navigation was generally quite good on the i305, one very annoying exception was that there was no clear way to go back to the main menu from the Web site areas; we were forced to disconnect from the Web just to perform this function. To add to the confusion, (at least for the uninitiated) use of the Mobile Internet can be a bit obscure, and none of the included documentation covered this topic. That aside, other Web-related features include a variety of okay-sounding ring tones with the option to download others, and the always-handy GPS function (non-Java), which a!llows map downloading and emergency location determination.

Testing Organizer/Fun and Games

The phone's organizer capabilities are limited to time/date, memo, and voice recording capability with additional downloadable software. The usual phalanx of games and optional extras are essentially ignored. Users get Web access to a few minimalist, downloadable games, but again, accessing the games and information on them is not addressed in the included manual. However, in making a buying decision, we found this to be a non-issue. As if it wasn't obvious before, this phone provides function over form, and is not trying to replace your PDA or Gameboy. The one game we did try out was from the Nextel Arcade site; a primitive little game called Bubble Blast, which seemed like something out of a home computer circa 1984.

Conclusion and Vital Statistics

The Nextel i305 is large, weighing 6.63 oz. including the battery, and measuring 5.0 x 2.3 x 1.4 inches. Overall, we found it to be an excellent choice for just about anyone desiring a highly durable, practical cell phone. Unlike most of its contemporaries, it is not designed to appeal to users through its diminutive size, or complex graphic or organizational features. The phone comes with an OEM standard Lithium Ion battery (750 mAh) rated at about 215 minutes talk time and 90 hours standby time. Display language settings include English, Spanish, and French options. A high capacity battery door and a Black Rapid travel charger are also included. --- Erik Hammen ... Read more

Features

• The i305 is designed to withstand exposure to rain, sleet, and snow. Rubber encasing, interior linings and seals protect the phone's antenna, speakerphone, keys, battery door, and accessory connections against water intrusion
• Hands-free cellular conversations are always available with the built-in speakerphone
• Assign unique ring tones to contacts for audible notification and caller identification during incoming calls
• Discrete vibrating call notifications in quiet or noisy environments
• Change a setting to read phone menus and options in English, Spanish, and French

Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony Ericsson T637 features a built-in digital camera, Bluetooth, multimedia messaging, polyphonic ringtones, and tons of ways for you to personalize its look and feel. Quality materials and a large and super-clear color display give this phone its sophisticated personality. It's the perfect complement to Cingular wireless service.

Design
The phone features a bright, clear 128 x 160 screen with 65,536 colors. It offers high contrast, saturated colors, and a fast response time that's optimal for displaying games and other moving content. The stylish candybar form factor of the phone will turn heads and get attention, while the quick camera buttons and easy-to-use center control toggle make it a snap to operate the T637. Charging and data connectivity are provided on the bottom of the phone, while an infrared transmitter for synchronizing contacts and data is housed on the top of the device. Meanwhile, the phone's CIF-resolution (352 x 288) camera is housed on the back panel.

Calling Features
When you're calling, you'll enjoy essential features like redial, vibrating alert, speed dialing, and side volume keys, as well as choice extras like sleep mode, menu shortcuts, keypad lock, SIM card lock, voice control, and status view. Create your own ringtones with the built-in MusicDJ using a library of pre-loaded instruments, rhythms, and melodies. Further, the phone's 32-voice polyphonic ringtones make your incoming calls sound like music to your ears. Use the ringtones that come with your phone or download new ones from Cingular's MEdia mobile Internet service. And because the T637 has Bluetooth built in, you can use a wide array of Bluetooth-compatible headsets for total wireless freedom.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The T637 has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging. Support is built in for sending and receiving text, graphics and sound via messages. Multimedia messaging (MMS) lets you compose your messages using images, sounds and text. Sony-Ericsson's QuickShare feature, meanwhile, lets you share content with other devices, other phones, even your computer--just drag and drop pictures from your PC to your phone. Instant messaging is also supported and the phone ships with a built-in email client (Cingular 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 is easy with the T637, as well. It supports the GPRS protocol for speedy downloads and wireless Web access. Cingular's MEdia service lets you receive and send emails, read news headlines, get sports scores, download games and ringtones, and more.

The T637's Bluetooth capability lets you connect, wirelessly, to a laptop, a PDA, or another Bluetooth phone, and users of Apple computers can synchronize their calendars and contact information with the T637 using iSync, Apple's free synchronization software.

A number of handy tools come with the phone, including a memo pad, a calculator, business card exchange, a calendar, and a tasks list. There's also a full-featured clock, which includes a stopwatch, an alarm, and a handy timer.

Imaging and Entertainment
The camera T637's camera couldn't be easier to operate, with just one click to activate it and another to take a picture. Want to view your pictures on your computer screen? The T637 can automatically enlarge pictures to VGA size (480 x 640 pixels). Software included in the phone recalculates picture size without sacrificing quality.

Mobile gaming has never looked better than on the T637's high quality screen. Force and sound feedback guarantees full-throttle fun. The T637 comes with a variety of embedded games, including the legendary racing game V-Rally 2, and many more are available for download.

Vital Statistics
The Sony-Ericsson T637 weighs 3.26 ounces and measures 4.02 x 1.69 x 0.67 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 9 hours of digital talk time, and up to 300 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the GSM/GPRS 800/1800/1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
T637 handset, SIM card, battery, charging cord, user's manual, and warranty information ... Read more

Features

• The T637 features a high-resolution screen with 65,536 colors
• With a built-in camera, you take pictures and store them on your computer or send them to friends all in a few simple steps
• Supports the Java and Mophun platforms, making the widest range of mobile games and applications available for you to download
• Update your calendar and transfer files to your computer using Bluetooth, infrared, or USB connections
• Comes with standard battery and a SIM card

Reviews (41)

Pretty good phone!
I purchased this phone after the screen on my Nokia 3200 cracked :(.This is a great phone and works really well with Cingular's GSM Network.I wish it had a speakerphone but the clarity between the jabra bluetooth headset I got and the phone is excellent.AIM on the phone is sloooow but I had the exact problem on my Nokia so I think it might be Cingular's network.Another thing is that I stored all my numbers on my SIM card but this phone cannot read them straight off the card.You first have to copy the numbers to the phonebook and that was a little tedious.However it only took about 10 minutes to copy 20+ numbers to the phone's memory.

The calendar and calculator are excellenty designed and are very easy to use.The alarm clock is also great in that you can schedule a recurring alarm for each day of the week.

The camera does take grainy pictures and requires just the right amount of light so things do not look washed out or like an ultrasound.

Cingular's phone service is excellent as well.I haven't had any dropped calls or calls that have gone straight to voicemail.Cingular's customer service, like some carriers, is almost hit and miss.Sometimes I call and get someone extremely knowledgable and helpful and then sometimes I will get someone who does not understand what I'm asking.While those situations have gotten better it does seem that a few reps could use more training about the data capabilities of Cingular phones.I was having trouble sending pictures when I first got the T637 and I was transferred to a Tier 1 tech then a Tier II tech.It turned out to be that my phone needed a download but it took over an hour for them to figure that out.

I am pleased with this phone, and Cingular, but I wish it had a speakerphone and that Cingular would improve the speed of the AIM service.Tmobile's AIM was always quick, when I had coverage that is.

yixin li do you know how to use a cellphone?
this is just a quick response to lixin li who dissed the ericsson T637 for the big internet m-mode button that charges you when 'accidently' hitting it. well if you knew anything about the phone you would turn on the automatic keylock and not have this problem. well, what do you know? there...no more charges. thanks sony for a great phone. [i had to clear this up because its people that lixin li who diss a great phone they dont even know how to use]

Awesome phone
This is a great phone with excellent battery life.I can usually go four or five days without having to recharge the battery.That's just awesome.The ringer volume is loud and the screen is bright.You'll never have to pay for a ringtone or game again thanks to the excellent Bluetooth support.

Performance of Java games is sluggish - that's my only complaint.You may want to spend some time searching for Mophun games, as those are much more responsive and smooth.

A lot of the negative reviews here make reference to the 'online' button being too-easily-pushed.That may be true, but let me tell you something.This isn't a flip-phone.This is a 'candy-bar' style phone.Non-flip-phones usually have a mechanism that 'locks' the keypad when the phone isn't in use so that random buttons don't get pushed when they're in your pocket or purse or whatever.

If you're too stupid to turn this lock on when you're not using the phone (or to enable the auto-lock function) then you don't deserve to own a mobile phone, period.

Didn't care for it.
I had this phone through Cingular, and I had alot of problems with it.
First of all, the small size and crammed arrangement of the buttons made it hard to type a phone number in. The keys are slippery, and thus my fingers were always "missing".

Second, the "online" button on the side is way too easy to push, and my phone was always connecting to the internet when I was least expecting it, and running up charges.

Third, Cingular doesn't make it easy to see if you're roaming or not on this particular phone, which accounted for $3,000 in spurious roaming charges being accrued over a course of 3 months. This, combined with Cingular's really bad customer service (they kept shutting my phone off, and the regional director finally had to personally intervene in my case) made for one BAD experience. Translated: DON'T buy this phone if you live near the Canadian border, cuz this phone won't tell you if you're roaming or not.

Better yet, steer clear of Cingular as well.

Great phone...but not for everyone.
First of all, let me say this is a great phone. I will note a few important things:

1. It is a smaaal phone. The buttons are small. If you have a large hand or fingers, its going to be hard to grasp the phone properly. I have average hands and it was hard for me!

2. No Speakerphone...this is a huge downside.

3. There is an online button 'conveniently' accessable which can be mistakenly pressed and you'll never know you went online and you were being charged.

4. Camera sucks. It is a VERY BASIC one,... you have to be standing within 2 feet of the subject to get a recognizable picture.

Pros:
1. Crisp, Large display
2. Sleek looking
3. Lot of great personalization tools within the phone
4. Bluetooth
5. Better reception than most phones ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

With a vibrant, full-color screen, support for SMS text messaging, a speakerphone and voice-activated dialing, the 6016i is an affordable, entry-level phone with top-level features. It's a great companion for Sprint PCS users who want simple PCS voice functionality.

Design
The 6016i follows the tried and true Nokia candybar style with an extendable antenna mated to a dedicated internal antenna. The phone includes a 2.5mm headset jack, a USB data port, and a standard Nokia charging connector. The 96 x 65 color display boasts 4096 colors. Detachable faceplates are available for the front and rear of the handset so you can dress up your phone to suit your mood.

Calling Features
The 6016i's built-in address book can store up to 250 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers. Choose from 30 built-in ringers, including MIDI ring tones with up to 16-chord polyphonic sound, as well as a vibrating alert. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. You can also speak up to 25 numbers with the sound of your voice. The 6016i's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911. Perhaps most importantly for users in rural areas, the 6016i is a tri-mode phone, meaning it can operate on Sprint's digital PCS network, as well as analog networks that serve many outlying areas.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
If you need basic messaging capabilities, the 6016i has you covered as support is built-in for sending and receiving SMS text messages (Sprint PCS text messaging charges apply). T9 text entry, a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built-into the unit-- a plus for text messaging users.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the 6016i including a calendar, a calculator, a voice recorder with 30 seconds of recording memory, an alarm clock, and a to-do list. The 6016i lets you carry these tools wherever you go so you can create appointments and view your schedule at a moment's notice.

Entertainment
The 6016i is Java enabled, meaning it supports games written on the Java platform. Turn downtime into fun time when you play one of three built-in Java games-- Air Glide, Bowling, or Sky Diver-- right on your phone's display. The phone also features customizable colors and screen backgrounds so you can make your phone reflect your personality.

Vital Statistics
The Nokia 6016i weighs 3.87 ounces and measures 4.26 x 1.97 x 0.91 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 360 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the AMPS 800/CDMA 800/CDMA 1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Nokia 6016i handset, AC battery charger, lithium-ion battery, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• It's easy to access the features you need with the user-friendly Nokia menu structure
• Download applications, such as stock tracking programs and city guides
• Attend to other tasks while you talk using the integrated speakerphone
• E-mail messaging allows you to stay in touch with friends, family and coworkers
• Predictive Text input(T9)

Reviews (3)

My Nokia 6016i rocks!
This phone is great! (...) It totally rocks! :):)

Very Good Voice Phone
I've had this phone for 2 weeks now. I love the speakerphone and the battery life. However, I wish Nokia had a dedicated on/off speakerphone button so I wouldn't have to activate the speakerphone on every call I make or receive. Don't get me wrong here: it is quite simple to activate the speakerphone. But the less buttons I need to press while I'm driving the better. Moreover, the clarity of calls is quite good on this phone in the NYC area and suburbs. This is a very simple phone to operate and I appreciate the fact that I can place a home or work address for every person in my contact list, in addition to a host of other phone numbers. The voice tags work quite well on this phone and are simple to activate. Nokia did a very good job on this phone in regard to voice dialing.

I press a lot of buttons on this phone as I call in for stock quotes during the course of the day. Once in a while the button doesn't register when I press it and I have to press it harder for it to work. Furthermore, I have already received 2 spam SMS Text messages. Part of the reason I bought this phone was because I was no longer interested in the Sprint Vision Service.

With the exception of the initial charge, be sure you do not charge this phone overnight. Nokia warns against this specifically in the manual and says that if you do this, you will reduce the phone's battery life. So, I charge it during the day for about an hour. Battery life is real good.

This is a phone for those who just want a real good voice phone without any of the multimedia or web surfing services.

Best Cellphone EVER!!
I recently recieved this cellphone for Christmas this year and i love it!!! As a 12 yearold this phone had coolest look with out following the new trend flip phones and camra phones.This phone gets exclent reception evern wnen in the car and in the mouants....I recomend this phone fore kids of all ages and for adults who are still kids at heart!! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Get ready for the power of Verizon's exciting V Cast service, which allows you to download or stream full motion video and 3D games, all on your handset. A service like that requires some horsepower, and luckily, the Audiovox CDM8940 is up for the task. With support for Verizon's EV-DO high speed data network, a megapixel camera with video capture, dual color displays, and expandable memory, the CDM8940 is the perfect companion in a new era of high-speed wireless content.

Design
The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a very large 176 x 220 color display and support for a whopping 262,000 colors-- plenty of room for V Cast content. There's also 64 MB of memory built in, so you'll have plenty of space to store your videos and photos. A miniSD memory card slot is located on the left side of the phone, so you can expand available storage. A generous, full-color 128 x 96 supplementary display on the outside of the cover displays incoming call information, battery life, signal strength, graphics, photos 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 CDM8940 also features a standard jack to accept universal hands-free headsets and up/down keys are located on the left side of the unit. The megapixel (1280 x 960) camera unit is housed on the rear of the unit, and USB data connectivity is available via an adapter cable.

Calling Features
The CDM8940's built-in address book can store up to 300 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. The phone comes with built-in polyphonic ringtones plus a vibrating alert. More ringtones can be downloaded via Verizon's Get It Now service. Ringtones can be assigned to specific callers so you don't have to look at the phone to know who's calling, or you can match pictures with callers to identify them. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names, while a speakerphone makes it easy to talk handsfree. The CDM8940's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, the CDM8940 is fully compatible with Verizon's V Cast service. With V Cast, you can download and stream high-quality video. Need news and weather? Get the latest Accuweather forecast delivered right to your handset, or stream CNN news headlines. ESPN sports updates, entertainment news from E!, and even Sesame Street content for the kids, are all available. V Cast also serves as a portal for enhanced 3D games. Have more fun with a new breed of realistic games.

The CDM8940 has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging, with support for sending and receiving text, picture and video 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 CDM8940. Verizon's 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 phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Get It Now service.

The CDM8940 ships with a number of handy tools including a calendar and a voice memo application. An alarm clock and calculator are also included.

Imaging and Entertainment
While the CDM8940 is a great platform for watching V Cast video content, it can also capture video that can be shared with your friends and associates via video messaging. The video unit can capture clips up to 15 seconds in length. Of course, you can also use the camera to capture still pictures, too. In addition to megapixel resolution, the camera features an LED flash, macro shooting, a self-timer, and brightness and contrast controls.

The phone supports V Cast 3D games, as well as other 2D-based games, which are available from Verizon's Get It Now service. You can also customize the phone's wallpapers and screensavers to give your CDM8940 a look that suits your style.

Where It Works
Covering over 75 million people in 30 markets:
Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dallas, Dayton, Houston, Jacksonville, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Madison, Miami, Milwaukee, New Haven/Hartford, New Orleans, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Pittsburgh, Providence, San Diego, Tampa, W. Palm Beach, and Washington, DC.

Expanding markets in 2005

Vital Statistics
The Audiovox CDM8940 weighs 3.89 ounces and measures 3.56 x 1.82 x .92 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 190 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/CDMA 1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
CDM8940 handset, lithium-ion battery, home charger, stereo headset. ... Read more

Features

• Beautiful clamshell handset with dual color displays
• Crystal clear megapixel camera with video capture
• Enjoy entertainment or stay up date on the news and sports with streaming video playback
• Utilizes miniSD memory card slot to store all of your pictures and video
• Go handsfree or conference call with built in speakerphone and voice dialing

Reviews (2)

Could have been Better
I've had this phone and verizon for a week.
Pro:Very sharp screens, Good battery life, Good reception.
Cons: Speaker phone is useless.

VCast isn't available yet in my area.

Great phone!
I was a little hesitent about ordering this phone but I have not been disappointed.The camera and mp3 player are pretty good, particularly when you consider that these are bonus features of a wireless phone.RF performance seems respectable.The unit is nice and compact, the keypad and screen are very good, and the menus and displays are excellent.Navigating through the icons and setup options is very intuitive, I've hardly needed to look at the manual.

The miniSD card is somewhat "crippled" but this is easy to overcome.mp3 files can be transferred to the card via a PC reader.The built-in reader of my HP OfficeJet 7310 works just fine, as the miniSD card shows up as a separate drive to which I can copy or delete files at will.The pictures are a little more work to move off the card, but a $23 Radioshack cable (part #17-760) and a free driver download will do the trick.There is a post on the Phonescoop.com forum for the CDM-8940 that explains the process in detail.Ringtones can be transferred in the same manner as pictures, I believe.

The negatives of the phone are the quality of the speakerphone and lack of Bluetooth.I don't use either feature so these are no matter to me, but if you rely on one or both a lot this isn't the phone for you. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The 8610, a Virgin Mobile exclusive, features a large color display, a speakerphone, support for Virgin Mobile wireless Internet services, and much more. This sporty companion keeps you in step with the latest mobile technologies at a great price.

Design
The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a large 128 x 128 color display with 65,000 colors. A monochrome 96 x 64 pixel 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. Meanwhile, the top right side of the unit houses an extendable antenna while the combined charging/USB data 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 8610's built-in address book can store up to 300 entries for quick and easy management of your contacts. The phone comes with built-in Virgin Mobile "superphonic" ringtones plus a vibrating alert. Superphonic ringtones feature real music tracks and more are available via Virgin Mobile's VirginXtras service. Ringtones can be assigned to specific callers so you don't have to look at the phone to know who's calling. A built-in speakerphone lets you talk handsfree while you're on the go.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The 8610 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 superphonic ringtones from Hip Hop songs to movie themes. 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 8610 towards a song that's playing in the room, and within minutes a text message appears identifying the song's title.

The 8610 ships with a number of handy tools including a calendar, a calculator and an alarm clock.

Imaging and Entertainment
The 8610 features custom Virgin Mobile graphics-- screen savers, wallpaper and menu icons-- that let you dress up your phone to suit your personality. Two pre-loaded games come with the phone, Blackjack and Magic Hexa.

Vital Statistics
The Audiovox 8610 weighs 3.4 ounces and measures 3.5 x 1.90 x .90 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3.0 hours of digital talk time, and up to 168 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 8610 handset, AC charger, lithium-ion battery, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• Works with Virgin Mobile pay-as-you-go service
• Stylish flip-open format
• Full color screen for optimum display
• Comes with Superphonic ringtones and downloadable ringtones
• Enables text-messaging, custom graphics, and more

Reviews (66)

Can be good but can be disappointing
The Virginmobile payment non-plan plan can be good for those who use a mobile phone infrequently, which I do.It could be terrible for those who use it most days. After getting used to the interface, this can be a likeable phone.If you happen to be where the signal is strong, clarity can be excellent.However, even well within the service area I have had weak signals and broken calls. That's not surprising in the building where I work.It is surprising in my apartment. The voice volume is low, even when set to level 5.It can be fine in quiet surroundings, but it's a struggle to hear in moderately noisy environments.
There are no roaming fees, because there is normally no connectivity outside Sprint's digital service area.According to the manual 911 calls can connect in the roaming areas. I have not tested this.
Battery life is disappointing.In standby the 1000mAH battery supplied is only good for about two days between charges.I bought the optional 1700mAH battery from Audiovox.It's twice as thick as the standard battery, and it extends standby to three days between charges.
The minimal features of this phone don't bother me, but deficient signal strength, volume, and battery life make me covet a real phone from another company.

Great phone, BEST COMPANY I've joined with so far.
Hey I'm Rebecca (rcitykitty)
That other review above about the "warning of the customer service" is ridiculous. Once I had my phone stolen and customer service helped me through it, were quick in replying to my order for a new phone, and even paid for the minutes the thief used! It's the best customer service I've seen for any company, hands down. This phone has great features, and cool ringtones. It's a great deal for it's price and it has cool color screen backgrounds. I would give this phone the best rating possible!

Pleased So Far...
This phone and Virgin Mobile as a whole are obviously targeting an age group other than my own. Quite frankly, I don't care. I dropped traditional land-based phone service in February, and went with AT&T CallVantage VOIP service instead...a tremendous savings, but when the power goes out, VOIP phone service goes as well. Also, with CallVantage as of this date, 911 calls do not provide the answering call center with your phone number and location automatically.

The Audiovox 8610 phone, coupled with Virgin Mobile, seemed like an inexpensive supplement to CallVantage, filling some very unpleasant gaps...and E911 service is provided. Features such as speed dial, caller ID, and even a speakerphone are included, and I'm extremely pleased with the voice quality. It's almost indistinguishable from a corded phone.

For the age bracket that this phone is marketed towards, there are also two games included, and several wallpaper designs. A ton of downloadable ringtones are available at the Virgin website, provided that you don't mind spending $2.00 to $2.50 apiece for them...want to hear the "Meow Mix" ad when a call comes in? It's available for download at the Virgin website, as are ringtones involving such oddities as bodily functions, none of which will be discussed in detail here.

Per minute pricing is high enough to keep me from ever using this phone other than when it is absolutely necessary (25 cents for the first 10 minutes each day, 10 cents per minute afterwards), but that's okay with me. Unexpected emergencies were the sole reason for making the purchase, and the added peace of mind that it brings more than makes up for the airtime that must be purchased from Virgin every 90 days to keep the service active...and I'm still saving money each month over traditional phone service.

I would recommend the Audiovox 8610 phone and Virgin Wireless to anyone who needs a cell phone for similar reasons.

Vos 8610
Great phone.....virgin mobile service can be a little better...however, I guess that is sprint's problem.

Great but eeehhhh
This is a great phone if your looking for the flip style, or a coloured screen, but the only problem with Virgin is ringtones cost up to $2 and the real sound ringtones are distorted. And The minutes go up like Wildfire.

Try finding this phone through another company. May I suggest Tracfone? They have a new phone with colored monitor, however its not a flip. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

This stylish, tri-mode clamshell kicks the fun up notch with enhanced messaging capabilities that let you send graphics, animation and sound with your text messages. It's also compatible with Verizon's wireless Internet services, making it a great mobile companion.

Design
The phone features a traditional clamshell design with a large and vibrant 128 x 160 pixels color display with 65,000 colors. 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. Meanwhile, the top right side of the unit houses an extendable antenna while the 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 A650's built-in address book can store up to 500 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. The phone comes with 15 built-in polyphonic ringtones plus a vibrating alert. More ringtones can be downloaded via Verizon's Get It Now service. Ringtones can be assigned to specific callers so you don't have to look at the phone to know who's calling. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names (up to 20 voice dialing contacts supported). The A650's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911. Perhaps most importantly for users in rural areas, the A650 is a tri-mode phone, meaning it can operate on Verizon's digital networks, as well as analog networks that serve many outlying areas.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The A650 features enhanced messaging with support for sending and receiving text, sounds and graphics in 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 A650, 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 A650. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Get It Now service.

The A650 ships with a number of handy tools including a calendar, a to-do list and a voice memo application that can record up to 4 minutes of speech. An alarm clock and calculator are also included.

Imaging and Entertainment
The A650 features customizable screen backgrounds and screen savers so you can make your phone reflect your personality. The phone is also BREW enabled, meaning it supports games written on the BREW platform. Games are available via the Get It Now service.

Vital Statistics
The Samsung A650 weighs 3.6 ounces and measures 3.30 x 1.80 x .90 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 2.8 hours of digital talk time, and up to 168 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the AMPS 800/CDMA 800/CDMA 1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Samsung A650 handset, AC battery charger, lithium-ion battery, holster, user manual, welcome CD-ROM, quick reference guide. ... Read more

Features

• The Samsung SCH-a650 phone is compact, easy to use, and loaded with features.
• The a650 speaks your language with stylish messaging and download features that can’t be beat!
• Make a call with just the sound of your voice.
• Always be in touch when on the go with the built-in organizer that manages your calendar.
• With Enhanced Messaging Service you can send animation and sound with text messages.

Reviews (8)

TOO HOT TOO HANDLE
I got this phone the other day, thought it would be a good basic phone, and the first problem was the volume settings. Just because you use the volume control on the side, it does not adjust all of the settings with sound; like you have to individualy set the ringer volume, than the speaking volume, etc.

Another major problem was that it would burn up when talking on the phone about 2 min in the conversation. It would heat to about 100 degrees F. It was hot enough to cause burns to the cheek and chin. Doing research, I relieze that all Samsung models (a610, a650, a670, etc.) have this same problem.

The phone is not pre-loaded with any games, nor any good ring tones, except the 10 pathetic tones and bells.

One more thing, the reason Verizon is offering the "Buy 1, Get 3 Free" is because they know there are flaws, plus this phone has been availible on the market for years and they need to deplete their supply for new models.

I recomend the Kyocera KX1v!

Bad Model...
Initially the phone worked fine until 5 months later.Without dropping the phone (which Verizon accused me of) the screen turned black.For $50 I received the same model replacement phone. This 2nd phone gave me problems 6 months later with call reception.I either couldn't hear the caller or the caller was coming in and out.After much complaints to Verizon, they exchanged my phone with another one (same model).Now this 3rd phone is giving me problems also.The reception is fine, but now no one can hear me.My voice comes thorough very low, faint, and with the complaints from my friends that I sound like I'm far away.I have had it with this phone and with verizon.Very poor customer service and handling of this problem.I can't wait for my contract to be up.

Many Features Yet Average Satisfaction
This flip phone replaced a non-flip phone.The smaller size is convenient but comes at the price of losing almost an hour of talk time compared to larger phones.(The A650 gets about three hours.)It performs well and Verizon service is very reliable.

The color screen is sharp and there are a lot of nice features like a monthly calendar display and easy to set reminders and alarms.The voice dialing is easy to set and use.Entering text is easier than my old phone.Unfortunately, Samsung's taste in graphic styles is not very svelte (a la Nokia).The fonts, colors, menu layouts and background pictures are not as attractive as many other phones I have seen.

Two very irritating things about Verizon's treatment of customers using this phone: First, Samsung's website shows the phone is capable of accepting messages with photo attachments that can be used as screen savers or backgrounds and Kodak's oPhoto site offers an easy way to send such messages but Verizon restricts this feature to camera phones.Second, the generic black ear bud offered on Verizon's web site is terrible.I had one like it for my previous phone and it fell apart a week after I started using it.Again, Samsung's website shows how far below potential is the service Verizon is offering by selling a Samsung ear bud in silver that matches the phone, adds a send/end button on the cord feature and costs almost ten dollars less than Verizon's inferior offering.

Good and reliable phone.
I've had the Samsung Sch a650 for about 10 months and my service is with Verizon Wireless and it's really a solid and reliable phone. Ijust use my cell phone for talking and nothing else...no Internet, videos, organizer...etc. And I've owned a Samsung cell phone before and I really liked the previous phone I had with Sprint. I think Samsung phones are well designed, sturdy (dropped it a few times) and provide good quality voice.This phone is no exception.What I liked was that it's relatively slim and compact. Has excellent audio quality. Samsung's UI is also really simple and easy to learn. Talk time is good. And combined with Verizon Wireless service -- it's the best cell phone/plan I've ever had. What I don't like is the way Samsung designs the charger port at the very bottom of the phone.This port is relatively unprotected and can get very dirty and wet (which destroys the phone). My wife has destroyed 2 of these phones b/c our 12 month old son decided to use it as a teething toy (her own fault). It initially comes with a plastic cover which you can place there but it's really impractical. I wish they designed a plastic pieces that stays attached to the phone. For me, I've had no problems since I keep in my pocket and pretty dry.If you're looking for a solid basic phone with easy to use features and good quality...get this one.

Don't quit your day (or night) job
This phone has 2 problems: 1.) The screen is impossible to read in daylight, 2.) The keys are not back lit so you can't dial in the dark.

If you make all of your calls from indoors under non-natural lighting, this phone is a good basic model.I use it as a calculator and an alarm and there are tons of other features I don't use.Supposedly you can download games using the Get It Now feature - I saw another reviewer complaining about lack of games.

I do like the ability to set multiple phone numbers for a single entry, the speed dial options, and the voice options which are mostly accurate when I don't have road noise in the background.

The only other complaint I have is that there seems to be no one way to universally set the volume of all the sounds the phone makes.When you want to turn it to silent, I found I had to not only set the volume of the ringer, but the volume of the voice mail notification, the alarm, and the service area indicator all separately.But maybe I just couldn't find it on the menus.

I ordered a leather case with the phone.The clip spring quit working within 2 weeks and the car charger quit within 2 months.

In summary, for a basic phone that you are not playing games on or taking pictures with, you are better off with a high-contrast monochrome with backlit keys. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Looking for an affordable phone with a generous touch of class? The c225 delivers with a large color screen, support for instant messaging and wireless media downloads, as well as a voluminous phone book. It's all wrapped up in a sleek candybar form factor that will turn heads.

Design
The c225's sporty candybar form factor sports a large, 128 x 128, 65,000-color display. Meanwhile, most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button above the handset's dial pad. Up/down keys are provided on the left side of the handset.

Calling Features
The phone's built-in address book, which supports up to three numbers per entry, can store up to 1000 contacts for quick and easy management of your friends, family and associates. Forty-chord polyphonic ringtones, plus a vibrating alert, are built in and more ringtones can be downloaded from T-Mobile's t-zones service. Picture ID and ringer ID allow you to set graphics and ringtones for specific groups of callers. Like all T-Mobile phones, the c225 also supports voicemail, caller ID, conference calling, call forwarding, call waiting, call hold, built-in paging, and access to T-Mobile's 411 service.

Messaging and Internet
The c225 has robust messaging features designed to keep you in touch wherever you roam. In addition to basic text, picture and sound messaging, the phone features support for instant messaging from Yahoo, AOL and MSN (T-Mobile messaging charges apply). There's also a built-in web browser for MEdia downloads and mobile web browsing. T-Mobile's t-zones service lets you receive and send emails, read news headlines, get weather updates, download games and ringtones, and more. 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 text messaging users.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the c225 including a voice memo recorder, a calculator with currency conversion, a to-do list, a calendar and an alarm clock.

Imaging and Entertainment
Four games ship with the c225, and more Java-based games are available for mobile download from the t-zones service. Meanwhile, customizable wallpapers let you dress up your C207 to suit your style.

Vital Statistics
The Samsung c225 weighs 3.4 ounces and measures 4.30 x 1.80 x .90 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3 hours of digital talk time, and up to 100 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 900/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
c225 handset, hands-free headset, SIM card, lithium-ion battery, AC charger, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• Ordinary menus and images become extraordinary with a bright, brilliant 65,000-color screen.
• Experience constant connectivity while on the go with high-speed, always on Internet connection-with a touch of a button, access movie times, sports scores, restaurant locations is quick and easy.
• Need to communicate but can't make a call? Use AOL Instant Messenger to chat in real time with compatible phones and PCs.
• Be unique and turn heads with a festive ringtone by accessing pre-loaded content or downloading the latest ringtones, images and games.
• Talk time up to 2.5 hours standby time up to 6 days.

Reviews (1)

DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY
i bought this and within two weeks i had dropped calls and tons of static, i was coming from a nokia 3595 and that phone was better then this one. i went back to tmobile and they just gave me the same one all over again, geuss what, same thing all over again, ive had it with this phone! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Overview

Compatible with Nextel cell phone service, the ultra-durable Motorola i530 packs all the really necessary features of a modern cell phone into the world's first weatherproof clamshell frame. This phone is so hardy, it actually meets military standard durability specs. If that's not enough, there's also Internet access, speakerphone functionality, a 600-entry phone book, voice recording, voice activation, and more.

Durability

The i530's Military Standard 810 F certification means that the phone can function normally in environments with high degrees of dust, shock, and vibration. Its hard rubber encasing and interior linings and seals all work to protect the phone’s antenna, speaker, keys, battery door, and accessory connections. The i530 also sports tough, rubberized keys designed to be both easy to use and durable in their size and resistance to accidental depression.

Calling Features

Used simply as a phone, the i530 sports a handy 4-way scroll key and two command keys for relatively easy navigation. It also includes a speakerphone function, important for the outdoor/industrial user, which has its own dedicated key. In its closed position, the i530's external screen lets you preview calls before you answer. The phone can also be set to connect to the last Direct Connect call or to a previously assigned Direct Connect contact, by pressing the PTT button. Other calling features include vibrating alert, downloadable voice activation (allowing users to speak a command or number and the phone will respond without a key being touched), recent calls list, call hold, call waiting, a 600-entry phone book, and keypad lock.

Messaging and Internet

The i530 includes basic text messaging, and its Net services include access to news, weather, entertainment, and other Mobile Net-enabled sites, as well as downloadable ring tones, and the always-handy GPS support (for non-Java services such as Mobile Locator).

Other features

The i530 also provides time/date notification, an accessory connector cover that enhances the phone's durability by protecting the bottom accessory connector from dust and debris, a headset jack for direct plug-in without an adaptor, and English, French, and Spanish language settings.

Vital Statistics

The Motorola i530 weighs 6.63 oz. including the battery, and measures 3.6 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches. The phone comes with an OEM standard Lithium Ion battery (750 mAh) rated at about 165 minutes talk time and 75 hours standby time. A travel charger is also included. ... Read more

Features

• Motorola i530 is great for those who need added durability, and want other great features
• Provides operation of phone when closed with a single key
• Set your phone and instantly connect to the last Direct Connect call or an assigned Direct Connect contact by pressing the PTT button (also works for Group Connect)
• Hands-free cellular conversations are always available with the built-in speakerphone
• Performs in dusty environments, stands up to short drops and exposure to vibration from heavy machinery use

Reviews (10)

also available all black color
Nextel and Motorola have developed the ultimate "ultra cool, super sleek, power attitude, great phone w/the i530. Not only does it have consistent great sound quality on calls, but the ability to quickly contact other Nextel friends or relatives with a single push of the Direct Connect button makes other phones "just another phone".
**By the way, the Direct Connect (2 way radio) is usable in FULLY PRIVATE mode by simply pressing 1 button. The speaker turns off, you hold the phone to your ear, you scroll to the name of the bud you wish to contact, you push the button to talk and release it to listen and NO ONE has to hear your fast Direct Connect conversation. All Nextel phones have the privacy button for Direct Connect. It makes voice mail such a waste of our time.
That is how I use my Nextel all day at work in the office, I also keep mine on silent vibrate mode for totally discrete private use.
Look at any volunteer fireman/firewoman, construction person, cop, or young Jr High/HS kid in the Westchester/Dutchess/Rockland/Putnam County, NY region: you'll see a Nextel on their belt or in their hand. It is THE PHONE where I live.
Just try one. They have so many plans you will find one you like.

Super Phone. Durable, no bells and whistles
If you are looking for a phone that can withstand dropping (twice) water, and dust, this is for you. Nice grip, classy design, I have the bumblebee version in yellow and black. Vibrate option, can use DC either as walkie-talkie or more privacy is optional by pushing a button and using DC as a phone where only you hear. Six hundred entries, web access, no color screen, but no biggie on that.
Buttons solid, phone is a little larger than most phones ,but worth it . Nextel service is great.!

Good Phone
The i530 flip phone comes equipped with today's technological demands including speakerphone, One Touch Direct Connect, Downloadable ring tones, and enable GPS functions.It is available in both yellow and black.But had ordered it off of Nextels site.They even gave me a code that saved me $50.00.Here it is for you all to share (CL897L) case sensitive.On the shopping cart page.It is like an invoice thing.But I think it is a very good choice.You will enjoy the phone.

Motorola Yellow i530 and Nextel 300w/Free Incoming Package
Gotta love the $200 rebate.Actually made $75 on the phone.That paid for my activation and first month's fees.

Phone is great.More durable than the newer i730.My wife loves the yellow color.She can find it quickly in her purse.

I called the 800 Nextel number to setup the phone once it arrived.The customer service lady was very friendly and helpful.It took only 15-20 minutes to get the phone active with a number.

I ported my home land line and was told it was going to be 4-6 weeks and they gave me a temporary number.Well everything was changed over in less than a week.

An Above Average Phone
I did have the i730, but i got terrible signal strength with that.So i traded down to the i530.I love this phone.I've had great signal wherever i've gone.I live in Kentucky, so i go into city area's and rural area's but i have had no problem.i love the two way radio, saves $ on the phone bill.Also the cool GPS tracker.The phonebook holds 600 #'s, i will never fill it up.The only downfalls with this phone is the battery.I use my phone all day and i have to charge it every night, if i didnt then it would die on me the next day.also no belt clip comes with this phone.other than that i would recommend this phone to everyone, just but a car charger, it will save your life.my dad and grandfather went out and got the i530 too.Save your $, dont buy the i730, get the i530 ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Incredible style meets powerful substance in this clamshell from Sony-Ericsson. With dual screens, a VGA camera with video capabilities and support for high-speed EDGE data networks, the z500a is a serious next-generation phone. It's the perfect handset for folks who want to get all the latest wireless goodies in one chic package.

Click the image to get a closer look at the z500a's features.

Design
Sony-Ericsson's reputation for cutting edge design has been brought into the clamshell arena with the z500a. There's a 128 x 160 display housed under the cover while the outside sports a supplementary 96 x 32 color display that can display time, call information, battery and signal strength, and more. The VGA (640 x 480) camera is housed on the front cover as well. The z500a uses an internal antenna-- nothing to snag or break off-- and a five-way button just above the dial pad is used to control most of the phone's menus and features. Up/down buttons on the left side of the phone can be used for quick volume control and menu navigation. USB data and charging ports, as well as a headset port, are located on the phone's bottom edge. And because the z500a's front and rear faceplates are changeable with Sony-Ericsson Style-Up covers, you can dress it up to suit your style.

Use the z500a's built-in ringtone composer to craft your own stylin' ringers.

Get great shots and video with the VGA camera. Video capture is only limited by the amount of available memory.

Calling Features
The z500a's phone book can hold up to 510 contacts with multiple entries per contact. A call list remembers your most recent missed, received and dialed calls. The z500a's voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. The phone also features a speakerphone for easy, hands-free talking. In addition to a vibrating alert, the phone supports polyphonic ringtones as well as MP3 ringers, allowing you to use portions of your favorite songs to alert you to incoming calls. There's even a bundled application that lets you mix your own ringtones with up to 16 tracks. Meanwhile, more ringtones can be downloaded from Cingular's MEdia wireless web service. Picture caller ID lets you assign a photo to specific callers. Similarly, a ringer ID lets you assign ringtones to callers. Lastly, the phone supports Cingular's "Fast Forward" call forwarding device, which enables you to effortlessly forward your wireless calls to your land line phone.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The z500a has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging. Support is built in for sending and receiving text, video, graphics and sound via messages. When used in combination with the phone's built-in camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. AOL Instant Messenger is also included and the phone ships with a built-in email client (Cingular messaging charges apply). The email client is preconfigured for accounts from some of the most popular ISPs, including Bellsouth.net, SBC Yahoo, and Earthlink.

Getting on the Internet is easy with the z500a. It supports the GPRS protocol, as well as the new, high speed EDGE data protocol. When used with a Cingular data plan and the phone's USB data capability, the phone can be used as a wireless modem for laptops and PDAs. There's also a built-in web browser for MEdia downloads and mobile web browsing. Cingular's MEdia service lets you receive and send emails, read news headlines, get weather updates, download games and ringtones, and more. T9 text entry, a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile email and text messaging users.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the z500a including a voice memo recorder, a calculator, a calendar, and an alarm clock with a timer and stopwatch. Sony Ericsson Sync Station software lets you synchronize your Microsoft Outlook calendar, contacts, notes and tasks with your z500a.

Imaging and Entertainment
The z500a was designed for serious fun. The built-in VGA camera captures stills and video to the phone's 6MB of internal memory. Video capture length is only limited by the amount of available storage memory and the phone supports playback of both MP3 audio and MPEG4 video files. Picture effects and custom screensavers, backgrounds, and themes can be set up to fit your personality.

Java support is built into the z500a, making it a powerful gaming companion for both online and offline games. Games are downloadable via the MEdia service or you can use the handset's USB data connection to load more games and files onto the phone.

Vital Statistics
The Sony-Ericsson z500a weighs 3.88 ounces and measures 3.66 x 1.93 x 0.94 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 10 hours of digital talk time, and up to 10 days of digital standby time. It runs on the GSM/GPRS 850/1800/1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Sony-Ericsson z500a handset, lithium-ion battery, travel charger, user's manual, application software. ... Read more

Features

• Integrated VGA still and video camera with zoom and brightness control
• MMS (multimedia messaging service) capable
• Mobile instant messaging using AOL Instant Messenger
• Polyphonic speaker and downloadable ringtones
• 128 x 160, 65,000-color main display and 4,000-color supplementary display

Reviews (29)

Unpleasant features and too many failures.
My previous phone was a Nokia 6360 (that's old), so this z500a looked pretty nice, with two color screens, a better speaker, and a still/video camera. However, these features are forgotten when you want to carry out basic telephone functions: the buttons are recessed too deeply and feel too uncertain (there's no good, solid click) to use without carefully using a fingernail to press each button slowly, waiting to make sure that the phone processed the press. The ring volume, when I tried to change it, always seemed to have the same loud volume, whether I tried the minimum or the maximum settings. It also would have been nice to have the "Beep Once" option, where, instead of ringing, the phone lets out a very short beep, and then just vibrates. The phone is too hard to answer, too: opening the phone just a bit answers it, but if it snaps shut, it will hang up. The different settings (one is "Any Key") should do something, but I've tried them all, and it's not possible to have to press a specific button to answer the phone. The extra buttons on the outside of the phone also cause problems when trying to answer a call, interrupting normal functioning when pressed accidentally (which is all too easy). There's also no keypad lock that I've found.

This phone also has problems that are bigger than simple aesthetic design features: after turning the phone off, removing and replacing the battery is sometimes necessary to turn the phone back on; the connection from the phone's power port to the cord seems tenuous at best, with the merest imperceptible touch causing the connection to flicker (making it impossible to talk on the phone while charging it), and a few other problems that are mostly related to power.

This phone is hard to dial, hard to answer, and hard to transfer photos from. Granted, those first two are pretty important, but it would have been nice to get a USB connection bundled with the thing. Until I figure out a good (cheap) solution, my pictures are stuck in a phone (which, in relation to photo viewing, turns off its backlight too quickly or not at all).

Hate it
I hate this phone.I had it for 2 months and the screens broke on it the speaker you could barly here the person on the other line. I just switched to the motorola razor v3 and i love it.but anyways the batterydies within 8hours(when fully charged). Cingular wireless is good but i didnt like this phone

a good value
after a disasterous relationship with a Motorola V-180, this phone is a delight. It's relatively easy to use, but for optimum usage, you should read the manual which is fairly comprehensive and well organized.
The usage of this phone is fairly intuitive to the user and will help guide you through features which is what I appreciated about Nokias and what I hated about the Motorola's.
Size: clam shell design is such that when fully opened, the length rivals a real phone; which for whatever reason, i appreciate.
exterior display: is programable to show a picture of the person calling you. will display numbers and time (although if you have it on "normal" setting, the display can be quite small. "car" setting will show you the time in larger numbers while maintaining the backlight display. if your phone is in normal mode, the screen will go to sleep and you will need to press an exterior button to show you the time.)
interior display: full color. size is ok. perhaps a little small for its size. it is difficult to view outside in sunlight however. there might be a way to fix that- i need to consult the manual.
Camera: this is my first camera phone, but i see nothing wrong with the quality. it does have a zoom feature.
speaker is loud and clear, and comes out of the earpiece so before using it, the phone reminds you you could damage your hearing and requires you to push a button again. I'm really one for one-button operation so sometimes that does get annoying.
favorite thing about the phone: has a built in recorder that makes it possible to make *anything* into a ring tone which for me makes downloading ringtones unneccessary.
this is a most welcome feature as the included ringtones that are already on the phone are *terrible*. i am not exaggerating.
the big drawbacks for the phone are fairly minimal:
the alert when you have a message is LOUD. and i mean LOUD. any of them. i think "click" was ok, but I haven't figured out if there's a way to dampen the volume on the alerts yet.
battery life: i'm torn on this- i tend not to turn my phone off at night (it's my only phone)so a fully charged battery seems to have only 3 strong days plus for me. however, the charging is FAST. a 20 minute drive to work plugged into your car adapter will no doubt give you enough juice for an entire day. I haven't had the phone long enough to find out if that will kill the battery faster or not and i'm kind of torn as to which i'd prefer- faster charging or longer battery life.
best unexpected feature: the text messaging has a dictionary.

Best Phone I've Ever Owned
Previously, all of my phones have been from Nokia.Needless to say, I was a little nervous about switching brands.I'll begin by saying that they basic controls on this Sony Ericsson are quite a bit different, but they were extremely easy to figure out.This phone is quite a bit larger than most other flip phones out there, and it is a bit heavier.Because of its substantial size, text messaging is easier and talking is more comfortable.It's still small enough to fit in my pocket, which is a major plus.

Everything on this phone is customizable.For everyone contact you can include up to five phone numbers, a picture, a special ringtone, and tons of other personal information.The factory-installed ringtones are pitiful, and Cingular ringtones are extremely overpriced.That said, anyone can easily use the sound recorder to make their own ringtones off of their stereo (or singing friends).

The camera phone is sufficient.The games are only demo versions so be prepared to invest in downloading a real game if it's important to you.My favorite feature is the speakerphone, which has surprisingly clear sound quality on both ends of the call.

For the price, you will not find another phone loaded with this many features.Why waste your money on a phone you'll only use for a couple of years when you can a Z500a with the same features and a smaller price tag?

ill, not quite what i expected.
I bought this phone online so there was no way to know what it actually looked like. When it arrived i was excited but upon opening it i immediately wanted to return it. It was ugly! Well not super ugly but i just didnt think it looked good. For one thing, it seemed big for some reason. It's weird, I mean its onlyslightly longer than my super old motorola t720 but it just looked like a big box. There is no antenna which is cool but because the phone has absolutely no curves except for its irregular shape, everything extends all the way to the edge like a box making it much larger. I was totally disappointed, having always bought Sony products because of their sleek designs. Sony should be ashamed for bring out something like this. Also someone mentioned that it looked to a big maxipad which i thought was hilarious but after I got it i just couldn't keep that thought out of my mind. I didn't want people lookin at me holding something that look like that. Then after charging the phone for 24 hours i tested the screen. It was horrible, the screen was blurry as everyone has told. I like the menus but the screen just kills it. The screen also looks very washed out because they don't seem to use black or something. It's all gray. Also when the screen light goes off, the screen is completely black, you can't see a thing. The keypads also look very cheaply designed, no red and green call buttons, it just doesnt look nice.Then there's the rings tones, they'r a total joke. There's like 5 or so rings tones that i'd be embarassed to have go off. You're gonna scare off all the girls with those stupid star wars sound effects.Then having not used the phone for 2 days after the full charge, I turned it on and it gave me a low battery warning and died. I was like "what the hell", this phone is suppose to standyby for 10 days or whatever and i've barely touched it. I'm not sure if it was the battery or charger because when you stick the charger in, the screen lights up and then disappears completely. There is no charging indicator at all to let you know its charging. Another annoyance. I have not tested how it calls and stuffbecause i did not want to activate the phone yet. I'm returning it for the motorola v551, dunno why i didn't get that in the first place. Well its only fair to say that, maybe the z500 may take time to get use to, since i only checked it out a little, but i'm not gonna waste that time. (wow, i just got the v551 and what a difference!!!) ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

While the RL-7300 might look like a basic clamshell, it is actually a rugged, powerful mobile companion with great features like push-to-talk, a speakerphone, and dual color displays. Folks who need a phone that can take a beating will like this device. Plus, the instant communication of Sprint's Ready Link push-to-talk technology makes it great for the working world.

Design
The RL-7300's sporty candybar form factor sports a 132 x 176, 65,000-color main display, plus a 64 x 64, full-color secondary display on the outside of the front cover. In addition to the secondary display, the front panel features a speaker for speakerphone and voice dialing applications. An extendable antenna is located on the top right side of the phone, while most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button above the handset's dial pad. The Ready Link service is operated by a button on the left side of the phone-- walkie-talkie style. A 2.5mm headset jack is also provided.

Calling Features
The phone's built-in address book allows you to assign up to 300 entries, each storing seven numbers, with a total capacity for 500 numbers and 300 email and Web addresses. A separate Ready Link phone book provides easy access to 200 personal contacts and 200 company-provided contacts. You can also customize your caller ID by linking a photo to a specific phone number in your contact list, or use voice dialing to automatically dial up to 30 pre-programmed contacts with the sound of your voice. In addition to a vibrating alert, you can choose from preloaded ring tones to jazz up your incoming calls. The phone offers a variety of traditional ring tones as well as polyphonic (32-chord), melodic ring tones. The RL-7300's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911 (where available). Perhaps most importantly for users in rural areas, the RL-7300 is a tri-mode phone, meaning it can operate on Sprint's digital PCS network, as well as analog networks that serve many outlying areas.

Hands-free operation of your phone is easy with the RL-7300's built-in speakerphone. Meanwhile, the RL-7300's Ready Link feature lets you enjoy the convenience of quick, walkie-talkie style communication at the touch of a button with one or several Ready Link users anywhere you go (Sprint PCS Ready Link service charges apply).

Messaging, Internet and Tools
If you need basic messaging capabilities, the RL-7300 has you covered as support is built-in for sending and receiving SMS text messages (Sprint PCS text messaging charges apply). T9 text entry, a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built-into the unit-- a plus for text messaging users.

The phone also supports PCS Vision email and instant messaging capabilities. Sprint PCS Vision transforms the wireless experience from something that's simply functional into something visual, entertaining and highly personalized. MSN Hotmail, Yahoo Mail and AOL Instant Messenger are all supported by Sprint's PCS Vision service. PCS Vision mobile Web services let you check out sports scores, get your seven-day forecast, check your flight status, and stay up to date with the latest news. Experience full-color graphic versions of popular Web sites.

For business users, the RL-7300 offers something special. Sprint PCS Business Connection service is supported by the phone and it gives you secure, remote, real-time access to Microsoft Outlook or Lotus Notes information-- including email messages and attachments, calendar, business directory and personal contacts. You can also respond to meeting requests, access documents stored on your desktop PC, and view email from Internet email accounts, including Sprint PCS Mail, Yahoo!, Earthlink and more.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the RL-7300 including a calendar, a calculator, an alarm clock, and a to-do list with scheduler. A voice recorder lets you record short voice memos for later retrieval.

Entertainment and Customization
In addition to allowing you to choose one of four background screens for your phone's display, The RL-7300 lets you choose different font sizes when sending messages or accessing your browser. With PCS Vision service, you can download games like Tetris and Pac-Man, as well as additional ringers, screensavers and backgrounds.

Vital Statistics
The Sanyo RL-7300 weighs 4.24 ounces and measures 3.71 x 1.97 x 1.12 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 3 hours of digital talk time, and up to 96 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the AMPS 800/CDMA 800/CDMA 1900 frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
RL-7300 handset, AC battery charger, lithium-ion battery, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• Ruggedized Ready Link compatibile phone with dual-color displays, speakerphone and voice dialing
• Quick, walkie-talkie style communication with Ready Link allows you to communicate at the touch of a button
• Rugged design minimizes wear and tear
• Built-in speakerphone and voice dialing make communicating easy and safe
• Includes phone, rapid wall charger and user documentation

Reviews (15)

Above average with some minor flaws
The SCP-7300 is above average at best, but that could be because I live and work in NE Florida, and most things don't work correctly here. The features that most others have talked about are nice, like the ease of use and the ability to quickly navigate through the various menus.

The four main problems I have with this model are as follows: 1. Calls get dropped or signal is lost despite having 4 bars. 2. Speaker does not work well in that it picks up too much background noise and is difficult (but not impossible) to use. 3. No easy way to redial the last number you called. 4. And I haven't seen this problem mentioned, but there are times when I dial a number, press the "talk" button, and the number disappears. I then have to re-enter the number, sometimes 5 or 6 times before it takes the number and actually dials. This also happens on the presets, I'll push number 5, for example, and the 5 disappears after pushing the "talk" button. I have 4 bars and everything seems to be working properly. Unfortunately, I cannot replicate this at a Sprint store, so they look at me like I'm nuts! But it does happen on occasion, so keep that in mind. Also, I've have 4 of these phones (same model) and they all do it. In fact, I got a new one yesterday and it did it today already.

It's not a bad phone, and I get them pretty cheaply for use at work, so I can't complain too much. They're better than Nextel, that is for sure.

great no frills phone
If you also believe that a phone should be a phone & a camera is a camera, then this may be for you.

This is replacing my old friend Sanyo 4900...greatest reception phone by Sprint ever made....I just dropped it a few too many times until it finally became unreliable.
The 7300, after 2 days, seems to equal the reception of the 4900...I find that the signal strength BAR indicator may show 1 bar, but that appears to equal what 2 bars were for the 4900....just need to interpret it differently.

the volume from both the speakerphone and earpiecee are very loud and perhaps clearer than other phones that cram a photo lens into the same area of where you listen...

Feels durable and solid for a flip phone.....I like the rubberized edges. Not sure if the battery life will come close to the 4900, but its a smaller phone so probably thats 1 trade off.

I highly recommend the (discontinued) 4900 model as well as this 7300. In general, most people i talk to say Sanyo is the best Sprint Cell phone maker. Ive owned LG and Samsung, and they both had issues. Go with Sanyo!

Best phone I've used
I got this phone to replace a Samsung that got lousy reception.The Samsung would drop calls, and left people asking me to repeat myself.I decided to go with this phone after seeing strong reviews for it on the internet.That's why I'm surprised to see some people here say they didn't get good reception with this phone.I think it's very well designed and rugged....I know it's going to last me years.I get good reception no matter where I go (I'm in the Atlanta area and take trips to D.C. and NY).Maybe there's a lot of bad units that get shipped with manufacturers.I never liked my Samsung, and replaced it with the same model when I thought it could be the model.The replacement would get lousy reception as well.I have a couple friends who use that model Samsung, but they don't seem to have the same problems.Sanyo seems to work for me better, and I notice it emmits less radiation then Samsung models.

Sanyo 8100 is better than Sanyo 7300; I miss the 8100 menus
Reception - 2 bars low
The reception of the Sanyo 7300 is about half of the Sanyo 8100.The number of bars on the 7300 is always about two less than the 8100.When in a call, it's hard to understand the other party because they are always dropping out.

Speakerphone - can't interrupt speaker
When using the speaker phone, you can not talk (interrupt) until the other stops talking.

Returning Missed Calls is much more complicated
If you like how the 8100 menu works, you'll miss the ability to quickly call back missed calls.Here are the key strokes for both to call back from the point where you first see the Missed Call:
8100 = View, View, OK, OK
7200 = View, Exit, Menu, OK (Call History), 3 (Missed Calls), Options, OK (Call)
That's 3 extra keystrokes and 3 extra moves.Note: "View" and "Exit" is the same button."Menu" and "OK" is the same button."Options" is the button above the "Back" button."Extra Moves" are defined as having to use a different key.

Calling Alternate Numbers is much more complicated using Outgoing History
8100 = Menu, OK (Call History), OK (Outgoing calls), OK (for last outgoing), Down (Alternate), pick alternate phone number
7300 = Menu, OK (Call History), OK (Outgoing calls), Options, Down, Down, Down, OK (Go to phone book), pick alternate phone number
That's 3 extra key strokes and 2 extra moves.The 8100 uses the same key for the first 4 key strokes.That's value.Whoever made this so complicated should have their head examined.I used the alternate feature of the 8100 all the time.After the primary phone number fails using voice dial, 70% of the time I want to try the alternate.The 7300 is such a pain.

Summary - Software investment saved
The only reason I will keep the 7300 is that my employer doesn't want pic phone on their premise.Also, the software I bought for the 8100 (FutureDial) works on the 7300 once I downloaded the update.

Writing my frustrations - since I can't call anyone
I bought the RL 7300 in June and returned it for a new one a month later when I wasn't able to make or receive calls and my text messages were coming in hours after being sent (with the original times to prove their tardiness) and weren't being sent out at all. I figured it MUST have been the phone.

The brand new replacement is even worse. One reviewer mentioned not being able to make or receive calls in Pittsburgh. Since I have purchased this phone I have traveled to Detroit, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, New York, Minneapolis and Chicago. In not one of those major cities was able to use my phone like normal people. My boyfriend, who was with me through all of those cities, was able to call any and everyone on earth. He also has Sprint, but luckily, a different model Sanyo phone.

The phone looks nice and is easy to navigate, but everything else about it makes me want to scream. I have been trying to hold out on buying a new phone, mainly because that one was expensive enough and I keep praying that ONE DAY it will work. Sprint admitted that the performance is not as good as many of the other Sanyo phones and after numerous "fixes", I still can't dial out when I want to. Only when the phone allows me to. Unfortunately for me, tonight is not one of my few lucky nights.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Overview
Compatible with T-Mobile To Go service, the Motorola V300 features an Inter net browser, integrated VGA digital camera, MMS text messaging, and more, all displayed on a large, high-resolution 176 x 220 pixel, 65,000 color screen. The V300's clamshell design also provides a 96 x 32 pixel, two line external screen, which displays caller ID, date, time, and various status icons (including text message waiting, voice message waiting, battery and signal strength, and voice andmessage mail, among others) without users having to open the phone. There's even a blue backlight for nighttime viewing.

Assign pictures to everyone in your phonebook and have photo caller id every time your phone rings

Calling Features
Used simply as a phone, the V300 features a compelling, ergonomic design and a 4-way scroll key for easy menu navigation. Primary calling features include speech recognition, which allows users to speak a pre-saved name, number, or function and the phone will call it up automatically; as well as an integrated speakerphone, auto redial notification, call forwarding, call waiting, hold, alternate line/dual name, turbo dial keys (2-9), ringer/vibrate suppress, multiple call timers, multiple key answer, vibrate mode, memory for last numbers dialed and received,and a phone book of up to 1000 entries, including Personal Information Manager (PIM) functionality with picture caller ID.

Messaging and Internet

The V300 has instant messaging with real-time chat.

Mobile messaging features are fairly standard: via MMS, users can send, edit, forward, and receive image and text messages to and from compatible phones or PCs. Images and ring tones received via MMS can be saved in phone's handy image gallery. There's also instant messaging capability, conventional email, and built-in iTAP software, which provides predictive text assistance. The V300 supports TTY functionality for the hearing impaired.

The V300's built-in Microbrowser also gives users wireless Mobile Internet access to directions, stock quotes, airline information, entertainment, and more. Users can also download MP3 polyphonic ring tones, wallpapers, and other applications and games. Two games, Bejeweled and Prince of Persia, are included with the phone.

Organizer
Organizer features include a 1000 contact phone book with photo caller ID, a date book, and Mobile Phone Tools compatibility, which (combined with software that is sold separately) lets users create, edit, and synchronize date book and phonebook entries with your PC.

The V300 can use polyphonic Mp3s for ringtones--use one of the 21 pre-loaded sounds, or make your own with the online mixer.

Fun and Games
For fun, the V300's integrated digital camera includes zoom and brightness adjustment functions, as well as 5 MB of memory for picture storage or for saving wallpapers, screensavers, ring tones, and games downloaded from the Internet. Ringtones are supported by a 22 KHz polyphonic speaker with 24 chord capability. Users can also assign different tones for different callers saved the V300's phonebook, and for messages, faxes, and reminders.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola V300's security features include call restrictions, keypad lock, phone lock, application lock, and new password capability. The phone weighs 4.3 ounces and measures3.5 x 1.93 x 1 inches. Its Lithium Ion batteries are rated at up to 390 hours talk time, and up to 200 hours standby time.

Features

• Clamshell design with 96 x 32 pixel, two line external screen
• Integrated VGA digital camera
• Internet browser
• MMS (multimedia messaging service)text messaging
• High-resolution 176 x 220 pixel, 65000 color screen

Reviews (2)

Great Phone
This phone has great downloads and already has cool stuff on it when you buy it.it is very light and very very durable.the outside is sort of rubberized which helps you grip the phone better. this phone is also pretty small.it is a good deal. the camera is great and has good pictures in low light areas.

V300 Pre-Paid
I think this phone is great. It has a great camera, color screen, speakerphone, and the list goes on and on. However, I'm not a big fan of T-Mobile due to their coverage (you might wan't to make sure the coverage is in your area). T-Mobile is not good for me because I do alot of travling. If this is not a problem go buy this camera phone. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Hot on the heels on the ubiquitous 8260, Nokia has introduced the 3360, a fun, shapely phone with several new features, including picture messaging and changeable front and back faceplates.Truly, there aren't many other phones under $100 that can match the 3360's design, components, and overallvalue.

Here's the tale of the tape: the 3360 measures 4.4 by 1.9 by 0.8 inches, and it weighs 4 ounces. This means the phoneis slightly longer than a business card and weighs the same as today's ultracompact phones. It also has an internal antenna--whichpeople either love or hate--though we never had trouble with call reception. To us, everything about this phone isexecuted correctly; the keypad is well-spaced, it has salient features (even though it can't access theInternet wirelessly), and it's inconspicuous while in use.

Three buttons handle most of the menu navigation: a central oval-shaped key activates the main menu and lets you selectoptions as they appear; the roller-bar navigation key scrolls through menu options; and the "C" (clear) button jumps backa step and erases text-entry mistakes.

Menu choices are: Phone Book, Messages (SMS and voice-mail alerts), Call Log,Profiles (so you can choose how your phone behaves in different environments), Settings (for calls, phone, and security),Forwarding, Games, Calculator, Calendar, Composer (for DIY ring tones), and Keyguard Lock. With the backlit, five-linedisplay (three lines of text, two lines of icons and indicators), we found it easy to navigate through menus and make selections. And here's a definite design improvement on the 8260: the 3360's power button, located on top ofthe phone, is raised a bit so it's easier to use (and find).

Like other phones, the 3360 has a full roster of call and messaging features. If offered by your service plan, it supportscaller ID, call waiting, SMS, voice mail, numeric paging, multiparty calling, and e-mail. Call logs maintain the last 10dialed numbers, 10 most recently received calls, and 10 missed calls. PIM functions includea clock, currency converter, calculator, calendar with room for 50 appointments and reminders, and a 250-entry phonebook.

But, as we said, the 3360 offers a couple of new features (at least for Nokia phones). We logged on to AT&T Wireless's site from our PC so we could download additionalring tones. The 3360 also has eight preset images you can e-mail to your friends--but in order to take advantage of it both people need to have a 3360 that supports picture messaging. You can also download additional images from AT&T Wireless' site, provided your service plan supports this action.

The front and back faceplates are separate, so you can have a two-tone phone if you desire.It was a minor challenge to remove the faceplate on the first try, but it was worth the effort. And while the phone's included gamesweren't enough to take us away from PlayStation 2, we enjoyed Space Impact (sort of Defender meets SpaceInvaders), one of the 3360's four new games. It also features Snake II, Bantumi, andPairs I.

The 3360 offers five basic security features: an initial phone lock, keypad lock, call-restriction modes,and the ability to change access codes at any time.

The NiMH battery is rated for up to 160 minutes of digital talk time and 7.5 days of digital standby time. In ourtests, we got the phone to hold a call for just about three hours, and it lasted for a full seven days in standby mode.

We highly recommend the 3360, and we don't want to give our sample phone back. It looks different from the rest of the herd and has the features we want and need on a daily basis--all for under $100.

--Arno Kazarian

Pros:

• Innovative design
• Picture messaging and voice-activated dialing
• Competitively priced
• Changeable front and back faceplates
• Streamlined menu navigation
• Space Impact game

Cons:

• No Web browser capability
• Removing faceplate is tricky

... Read more

Features

• E-mail capability helps you keep in touch
• Changeable faceplates allow you to customize your phone
• Infrared port lets you beam data to or from another device
• Up to 240 minutes' digital talk time and 10.5 days' digital standby time
• Includes NiMH battery, charger, and hands-free headset

Amazon.com Product Description

Step up to some serious power and svelte portability with the Audiovox SMT5600. At just 4.24 inches high and 1.82 inches wide, it's the world's smallest Windows Mobile Smartphone. In addition to making calls, the SMT5600 lets you do things you'd typically need a PC to do, like 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 SMT5600's Web browser is fully HTML compatible. Browse your favorite sites with ease.

The "Today Screen" keeps tabs on all your important functions, tasks, and applications.

Design
The large 2.2-inch, 176 x 220 screen dominates the front of the device. The SMT5600's controls maximize available space on the small unit. A four-way selection button 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. A mini-SD card slot is housed in the battery compartment, 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.

Calling Features
The SMT5600 has all the latest calling features folks have come to expect. With Windows Mobile for Smartphones 2003 Second Edition built-in, you can enjoy integration of your calling, contacts and scheduling functions, all wrapped up in a familar Windows-like interface. The included speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear, while voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. The phone's Bluetooth connectivity means that your favorite Bluetooth headset is fully compatible.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The SMT5600 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, as well as a contacts list that is cleverly integrated with the phone's dialing functions. Microsoft's ActiveSync software keeps the device synced with all of your PC's Outlook information (via Bluetooth, USB, or IR connection). Out of the box, the phone is also compatible with Cingular's MEdia wireless content portal which lets you read news headlines, get weather updates, download games and ringtones, and more. Meanwhile, users who want Internet connectivity on the road with their laptop or PDA can select a Cingular wireless data package and tap the SMT5600's wireless modem capabilities (via Bluetooth or USB).

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the SMT5600 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 SMT5600 is capable of recording video clips to its built-in 64 MB of memory. Memory can be upgraded to 1 GB of storage via the mini-SD card slot. The inclusion of Windows Media 10 on the SMT5600 opens up a whole range of possibilities for this phone. Use the phone as an MP3 player. 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. It ships with Jawbreaker and Solitaire.

Vital Statistics
The Audiovox SMT5600 weighs 3.58 ounces and measures 4.24 x 1.82 x 0.69 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4 hours of digital talk time, and up to 140 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
Audiovox SMT5600, applications CD, stereo headset, travel charger, standard lithium-ion battery, user's manual. ... Read more

Features

• World's smallest Windows Mobile Smartphone
• Call, email, text message or instant message - all from one integrated phone
• Email, contacts and calendar sync seamlessly with your PC
• Built-In CMOS VGA Camera with Camcorder
• Built-In Bluetooth and Speakerphone

Reviews (7)

Incredible phone
After reading many reviews on this product and others, I figured I should contribute when I've really found a great product with the help of Amazon reviews.This phone is amazing, and a fraction of the size of my previous SX56.If you don't need to type emails and want a smartphone that will sync all of your contacts, this is it.The only valid criticisms are the thumbstick (which is a little tricky to push down - you just have to press carefully) and the manual (non-network) time.Other than that, it's everything I had hoped.Bluetooth and Outlook sync work flawlessly, and voice reception is good.I love it!

This phone does everything
I've had this phone for about 6 months and have no regrets about getting it.It is still top of the line as far as I'm concerned.It has an internal antenna and is small, so it's easy to carry inside a pocket.It seems to be durable - it has survived many drops onto pavement with only a couple of scratches.The only problem I've ever had with it was when the battery died and I kept turning it back on to check the time.Eventually, the backup battery inside also died and I had to do a hard reset and reinstall all the software, including what was on the miniSD card.

This is definately a phone for all the computer and gadget geeks out there.It runs on a special Windows for Wmartphone O.S., but there is still a lot of software available for it.I have installed a map of my city, a dictionary, stopwatch/timer, AOL instant messanger... anyways there is a lot of stuff available, and a lot of it is free.The Windows Media Player is great, and with a 512 MB miniSD card and 48 kb/s wma audio, you can get 20+ albums of high quality music to fit on the phone.

The only feature is does not have is that you can't have a separate ringtone for each caller.Also, you can't take it apart to clean the inside of the screen (After 6 months it's only slightly dirty)

Best phone I have ever owned.
I read alot of the reviews [here] before purchasing because I was skeptical of the "Audiovox" name. I always thought they were a low-end Walmart brand of electronics.

Audiovox has strengthened my image in that brand name. This phone is amazing. It has everything Windows compatible you can think of and the possibilities of adding software/improvements to the phone are endless. This smartphone is a 200 Mhz beast of a hand-held computer. I really like the windows interface, the buttons are cool feeling (except the 5-way cursor button), the case looks and feels nice, the camera is better than my last camera phone (but not my megapixel camera), and the HTML internet browsing is exspensive ($40 Cingular Unlimited?)but really handy.

I was completely blown away after downloading DVD-to-Mobile from download.com and ripping the my favorite dvds! I am watching all kinds of movies on this phone! THe screen has a slight problem rendering true black but holding it at a certain angle makes the movies appear very much like their DVD counterparts. Note: Tivo also offers a Tivo-to-Go service for free that allows you to transfer Tivo'ed shows to your computer and specifically to transfer to a laptop [or phone] and watch on the road. THe movies are about a meg a minute and take up too much space for this phone's tiny 24 Meg built-in memory. Mini-SD goes all the way to 1 gig and that could hold several full movies depending on your video output settings.

Buy this ridiculously inexspensive Power phone!

Excellent Phone
I really like this phone, especially with an unlimited data plan.Internet everywhere you get signal!

It does everything I want it to do. I cannot wait until the 1GB miniSD memory cards come out. Q2 2005 they say, so should be any day now.MP3s, Movies(even Divx and xvid!), console emulators, all run on this thing. There's even a way to make this thing do voice dialing! And I'm sure there's more.

One of the main reasons I got this phone is for the multimedia capabilities coupled with the PIM features.And its great.

The camera is a bit lacking, but no camerahone is good, IMO.Just a gimmick.

I do not know why the luser below had such problems with this phone, it must be user error!:PThough I will give him a slight bit of credit for his clever observation that data plans are a bit expensive.But I personally I think it's worth it.

Though true that the menus and how some of the features work take a bit of getting used to for someone not used to smartphones, but this phone deserves every bit of praise it has received here.Definitely not an overall bad thing.Just different.

Audiovox SMT5600 Dumbphone
This phone is anything, but NOT smart. It is packed with many programs (InternetExplorer, InstantMessenger, MediaPlayer, PocketOutlook, etc) and features (Bluetooth, IR, camera, etc), but it is hard to learn and use:

1. The screen is too delicate. I am used to wearing my old Nokia cellphone in my pocket, but this Dumbphone will probably have to be replaced after a single scratch.

2. Because of the tall screen, the keys are smooshed in the lower tip of the phone, so it is hard to hold on to it when using keys. The keys are not tactile, and are too small for an adult.

3. Entering information with the keys is TORTURE because it's painfully slow and awkward! How about voice recognition for a change? It's one thing to use InstantMessenger on a PC with a full-size keyboard.. but why do I need it on a tiny cell-phone, when I can just call a person and talk!?! Because of the limited input capabilities, the Dumbphone makes a user feel like a dog that understands everything, but can't say anything -- can only bark.

4. The "thumbstick" is tricky. Frequently, when making a selection, it jumps up or down, and selects the wrong item.

5. The camera and camcorder are way too crappy. Indoor images are lifeless: gray and fuzzy.

6. There is no built-in help. I was not able to figure out how to lock the keys on my own. I am still unable find a place where I can see my own phone-number!

7. There is no audible feedback when key-lock is enabled. So you have to press the red button down for a couple seconds, then wait till the display changes, then release the red button. If you are on the go and can't look at the display, you can't be sure that the key-lock is enabled before you put the phone away.

8. If you have a voice mail, you can easily get it from the home screen, because there will be an extra line you can activate. Now, how do you call your mailbox when you don't have a message waiting??? Go figure.

9. In the power-saving mode, the screen is totally dark (unlike most cell-phones I've seen). If the key-lock is on, to see the current status, or just to check the time, you have to press the power key, which is intentionally small and is out of the way.

10. Without backlight, the screen is unreadable. My older Nokia phone was perfectly readable with only ambient light. Plus, I could always see the time, even when the key-lock was on.

11. Sometimes during normal use, the screen backlight turns off, and you can't see the damn thing on the screen. The keys continue to do some damage, but you can't see anything on the screen.

12. The stand-by time is only a third of a basic Nokia phone. If battery runs out and you don't carry a charger, you will lose not only ability to make calls, but also the ability to look up your contacts, appointments, etc.

13. I tried to browse my personal web-site, and it didn't work for some unknown reason: Alert. The page you are looking for cannot be found. OK.

14. The time is not synchronized with the cellular network. My Dumbphone is displaying 5:44AM, April 10-th, which is off by over a month! Why do I have to manually set the time?!? My 2-year old Nokia sync'd time automatically.

15. Accessibility "large font" feature only works for menus. The fonts on the home screen do *not* get bigger. This may matter to some people. Also, some combinations of background image and a color scheme result in white letters on white background, impossible to read.

16. I activated the security lock. This is what the display says as I unlock it:
--------------------------------------
This device is locked. Enter your device password and press the unlock softkey.
**07 <---- the input field shows last two digits of my secret code
An emergency phone number was entered. Press TALK to call. Or continue with the password.
--------------------------------------
An "emergency number"?? I thought I was just entering my secret code. This is freaking me out.

17. The phone and the digital service are overpriced -- in part due to folks like me who trade the Dumbphone for something usable and less expensive. So, if you would like to keep the Dumbphone, it will cost you an arm and a leg :)

The summary: the Dumbphone is packed with Windows software that you can't use, and it's less of a cellphone because of that. ... Read more

Product Description

The iPAQ h6315 Can Make Wireless Phone Calls Now you can get an extended battery, car adapter, three-pack of styluses, and 128MB SD card with your HP iPAQ h6315 Pocket PC with mobile phone and camera! This is the first and smallest handheld featuring integrated three-way wireless capabilities (GSM, GPRS, WLAN, and Bluetooth®). ... Read more

Features

• Microsoft Windows Mobile™ 2003 software for Pocket PC, Phone Edition
• 3.5" Transreflective color display, 240x320 pixels, 64k color support with touch screen
• Integrated Bluetooth, Camera and WiFi
• International phone: Quad-band (1900, 1800, 900, 850 MHz)
• Snap on QWERTY keyboard

Reviews (37)

HP Ipaq 6315 , PDA phone not all it should be
Having a phone and pda combined into one unit is a good idea but not one that actually translates into something that works for t-mobile.I'm don't know how this phone would preform on other networks but ont he t-mobile network it never worked properly.Unless you were in your house or driveway you won't get your calls.The calls will go directly to voicemail, and the phone will not ring becuase of low signal. Even after applying the free upgrade offered from HP through the t-mobile website the phone did not work properly.This ended up being a waste of $600 for me.

The compter part of the pda works great. Playing games, keeping my calendar and task list was about all I could do on this phone. Surfing the net was impossible unless you purchase the $40 plan from t-mobile.The phone has a wireless card in it but it never worked properly with my home network.Also the bluetooth never functioned properly for transferring data or using the buetooth handsfree.the infrared transfer worked fine.

The camera was another disappointment. It was supposed to be a 3megapixel camera but it did not take pictures like one.The shutter reaction is extremely slow and the pictures were very graining.There is a $9 flash attachment that you can purchase but I didn't want to spend anymore money on this item.

Don't order steak at a seafood restaurant
This product was not designed by engineers with Cell Phone experience.

HP is a big name in PDAs but they are not on the map in cell phones - this product demonstrates this.Don't order steak at a seafood restaurant.

I replaced my T-Mobile IPAQ 6315 with the Verizon XV6600 - After the grief I have had for 5 months with the IPAQ 6315 (actually 3 of them), the AudioVox XV6600 is a pleasure.I generally love HP products, but I guess they have no phone experience. I don't understand how the T-Mobile Engineers could have qualified the 6315 for use on their network.

The April 2005 software upgrade only slightly improved phone operation.


The HP IPAQ 6315:
1.Drops incoming calls
2.Drops outgoing calls on first try
3.Has poor audio for both parties on phone call
4.Cannot be programmed to automatically answer incoming calls while using a headset
5.The navigation pad works very poorly

If you love computers, you will love this phone.
Being a techno geek, I love this device.The HP iPAQ h6315 is a Pocket PC with the convenience of a phone built in.It runs Windows Mobile 2003 as the operating system which allows for a huge assortment of both free and for pay software to be downloaded on to it.However it also acts like a computer in that it will periodically lock up.When this happens, a soft reset is easy to perform and you can be up and running in less than a minute again.

Things to do when buying the device:

1.Immediately upgrade the firmware to the latest.At this time many of the units in stock still have the original buggy firmware.If you are familiar at all with computers, upgrading the firmware is relatively easy.

2.Order yourself a 1GB Secure Digital memory card and a PC card reader.Put the card in the reader and give the SD card a volume name (this fixes a bug).Then put it in your iPAQ.

3.When installing applications, install them to either the iPAQ File Store or the SD Storage Card.Also create a My Documents folder on the SD Storage Card and put your documents in there.Set up Pocket Internet Explorer to cache files to the SD card.Set up Pocket Outlook to save email to the SD card.The goal is to save as much as you can to the SD card or the iPAQ File Store as possible.You want to save your precious RAM for running programs.

4.To protect your screen from scratches and to be able wipe off smudges, get yourself a good screen protector sheet.Several brands are available.Stay away from the cheap ones.You get what you pay for.

5.Read the h6315 forum at PDAphonehome.com for answers regarding this device.

Pros:
The coolness factor.It really is a small computer.As long as you have WiFi wireless access or phone service, you have connectivity to the internet.You really can view web sites with Pocket Internet Explorer.Also you can retrieve and respond to all your email.Server admininstrators would find the Terminal Services client handy.This unit also works as a great MP3 player.If you are a VB .NET or C# .NET programmer, it is a snap to write software for this device.Oh yeah, it is a quad band GSM phone as well, so it will work overseas.

Cons:
This device is a small computer, so if computers fustrate you, then this device is not for you.It is not as fast as the latest Pocket PCs.This was done to save battery life.The other Pocket PCs will run for 3 hours on a battery charge where as this unit will work for an entire day on a charge.

An advanced phone for advanced users

This is a great device -- it has the potential to replace your existing phone, your PDA, and your iPod.Plus, if you use your laptop primarily for light web browsing and note-taking, this can do that too.

Pros:
- Full Bluetooth support.In addition to headsets, you can do ActiveSync with BT and your laptop can connect to the Internet via GPRS using the 6315 as a 'modem'.
- Wi-Fi support, so you can use high-speed Internet at home, at work, at Starbucks, etc.
- Very advanced networking ability with support for both "work" and "Internet" connectivity
- Multithreaded OS and huge universe of downloadable applications lets you do justice to your unlimited data plan (pull news headlines, weather, sports scores, and so on automatically in addition to your email)
- Great integration between the various features (camera and email, contacts and email/phone, etc.)
- Excellent GPRS and GSM reception (as good as that on my BB 7100t)
- Streaming audio and video support -- 128k audio streams work great over Wi-Fi, and 32k streams (e.g. voice streams from BBC World or NPR) work well on GPRS.You can also use video/audio off your SD card.The audio support through headphones is great and will replace my iPod.
- T-Mobile has quite reasonable pricing for unlimited data ($20/mo on top of the voice plan).

Cons:
- The first thing you have to do when you get this is install the latest firmware.Many of the dissatisfied users you'll find are still running the 1.0 firmware, which is unreliable.
- This is a Microsoft operating system and you will need to adjust yourself to the need for periodic reboots.
- The device is not blazingly fast; this was a design tradeoff for battery life.
- Expect to charge it every night.
- It takes a bit of effort to get the thing just the way you like it, and to use the advanced features properly (e.g. Bluetooth).If you are an easily frustrated or nontechnical person, either don't get this, or don't use these features.

Compare apples and oranges when you evaluate this.This is a PDA that happens to also be a phone.If you want a tiny phone with long battery life, you are in the wrong place.People who buy this and "wish they'd bought a RAZR V3" simply made a bad choice; that's not the fault of the device.

Against the Treo 650 and its antiquated PalmOS, the comparison is a slam dunk.
Against the other PocketPC devices, it's a matter of personal preference, and a comparison of the carrier pricing.

HP iPAQ h6315 PDA
I don't like it.But I've got $600 into the thing.I don't like T-Mobile.It doesn't work in the Metro (subway)here in DC,(but I hear people using their cell phones on the Metro all the time), and it doesn't work in my office building, at least not from my location in the middle of the 5th floor in the Ronald Reagan Building.If I move to a window I can get it to work, but who wants that?The device is clunky, I hate making calls on it because your face and chin brush up against the screen while you're talking, and you never know what button you will have inadvertently pressed.I would MUCH rather have a regular ol' cell phone again. But the iPAQ strives to keep you entertained by freezing, locking up, or presenting a window with no way to close it. I wish I had done some more investigation before buying this thing. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Overview
Compatible with T-Mobile cell phone service, the Nokia 6010m is an economy phone that also happens to include quite a few nice features, such as including GPRS high-speed data download, MMS, SyncML, Java-compatibility, and voice dialing, all displayed on a 96x65 pixel, 4096-color LCD screen.

Calling Features
Used simply as a phone, the 6010m's features include vibrating alert, custom ring tones, voice dialing and voice menu commands, and a 500-entry phone book capacity with 6 numbers per name. Nokia also supports TTY/TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf), and hearing aid support for the Nokia LPS-3 Loopset (adapter and Loopset sold separately).

Messaging and Internet:
Picture messaging and MMS capabilities built in to the 6010m enable users to send, edit, forward, and receive image, text, audio, and video messages over the wireless Internet, to and from compatible phones or PCs. You'll also get instant messaging capability, messaging templates, and predictive text assistance. Beyond messaging, the 6010m's Internet connectivity lets you access online services such as stock quotes, road directions, airline information, entertainment, and more. You can also download Java applications (version J2ME) to add additional capabilities to your phone, and high-speed data transfer and download round out the package.

Organizer:
The 6010m provides standard organizer features including a calendar with up to 500 events, a to-do list, and more. You can also transfer this data to your PC via the included SyncML software.

Fun and Games:
For fun, the 6010m customizable polyphonic ring tones, graphic displays, and screen savers, among others. You'll also get four games in addition to the Java games you can download from the Web: Backgammon, Bowling, Air Glide, and Sky Diver.

Vital Statistics:
The Nokia 6010m weighs 3.77 ounces and measures 4.68 x 1.95 x 0.87 inches. Its Lithium Ion batteries are rated at up to 330 minutes talk time, and up to 240 hours standby time. ... Read more

Features

• Lightweight and ergonomic design
• One touch dialing and voice dialing for easy communication
• Phone book with up to 500 contacts, with up to 5 numbers and 3 text entries per contact
• Personalize your phone with 8 different color schemes
• Stay connected with AOL, MSN and Yahoo messaging.

Reviews (9)

Good, for a year
I had the previous model of this phone, and after about a year two of the most used keys on the keypad lost functionality (end and down).I thought they would fix that problem with this phone, but they did not.My end and down buttons you have to push down about 4x harder than any of the other buttons to work (after a year of normal use.Works fine other than that, but that will be the reason that I will have to replace it, and this time it will be something other than a nokia.

Good Phone
for just a phone, it's pretty good. it's easy to make calls, unlike other phones where it is not very clear. green is call, red is end. simple. also, the ringtones are pretty good. i don't think you can use the ringtones where you actually hear a musical artist singing, but you can get the ringtones to play the tune of the song. there are 4 games. the phone is color. the keys are easy to use. the phone isn't too big, but it isn't so small that it's annyoing. there is instant messaging and text messaging. for just a simple phone, it's perfect.

Microphone connection is bad
The other party can barely hear me when I put the microphone on, I tried 3 new microphones and all result in the same problem. Then I witch the phone (sent by t-mobile after they found this problem when I talked to customer service), still same problem. In conclusion, I doubt it's the defective design of microphone connection in this Nokia 6010M or the week signal of t-mobile, not a specific phone or microphone.

Bad microphone in low power/low signal situations
I was hoping to dump sprint, and get t-mobile service with Nokia 6010M phone.

The day the phone arrived, I called my girlfriend, and my parents, and both complained about the frequent garbled words.I live between 2 cell towers, in an area with "fair" coverage according to t-mobile.(2-3 bars out of 7 most of the time.)

I did some experimenting while talking with my parents.During the same phone call, I'd plug in the "hands-free" earpiece/microphone, and far fewer words were garbled.Unplugged it -- garbled again.Later, I called while out-and-about in my car with 7 bars of signal strength -- very few garbled words.A few days later, was getting garbled words while talking with a battery at 4 out of 7 basrs.Plugged in the recharger, and most of the problem went away.

In summary, the microphone on the Nokia 6010m phone has problems in low battery and low signal situations, making it essentially unusable in my particular location.

Really a good basic phone
So, I used to have fancy-pants phone, a nokia 6600 that I got from amazon for a good price after rebate, and I was really happy with it. But then it got lost, by no fault of mine, but that's a different story.

Anyway, as you probably know, the deal with cell phones these days is that you either get a good deal when you first sign up for service or you end up paying an unreasonable amount of money for a phone. Looking around, I found that the nokia was the cheapest replacement I could get from t-mobile. That, and every other low-end phone seemed to have some sort of major design flaw that users were complaining about. So, even though I was a bit dismayed about getting a cheaper, less fancy phone, it seemed like the best option at the time.

Now that I've had it for a few days, I must say that I am pretty impressed with it. It does not have all the bells and whistles, but it does do the basic phone thing well. Good clarity, good reception, small and light. It fits in the front pocket better than the 6600 ever did. The only things I don't like about it so far are the lousy included ringers (what ever happened to basic phone ringtones?) and the low rez screen. Sometimes a nice, high rez gray scale LCD is better than a low rez color, but whatever, it's not a smartphone so I won't spend a lot of time looking at the screen I guess. Oh yeah, and I wish it had a way to sync other than syncML, which I haven't figured out yet.

But really, it's a good phone, it just won't earn you any style points or anything. ... Read more