IT Pro Verdict

A seriously feature-rich, and in many ways talented, phone, but it falls short as a business device. If you want a smartphone, an Android -based device or even the iPhone will serve you better.

By Benny Har-Even

published 8 July 2009

in Reviews

One advantage of not running a true OS is that it does benefit battery life over something like the iPhone - it lasted comfortably into a second day with medium use during our tests, with exchange email, some calls and web browsing but it won't go for days without a boost.

In essence, compared to true smartphones such as the HTC Magic and of course the iPhone, it really comes across as something of a toy. Its media playback abilities are its standout features, and support for Exchange is a real plus - though in use, it's not as advanced as an iPhone. Of course there is the fact that it is available for less than iPhone on a monthly contract (free at 25 a month), but this is a prosumer phone at best, and as a serious business tool it can't really be taken seriously.

Verdict

A seriously feature-rich, and in many ways talented, phone, but it falls short as a business device. If you want a smartphone, an Android -based device or even the iPhone will serve you better.

Connectivity: Quad-band GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS 900/2100MHz, HSPDA 3.6Mbps

Display: 3.1in (480 x 800)

Processor: 800MHz

Storage: 2GB built-in, microSD card slot

Camera: 5 megapixel, flash, autofocus

GPS: Yes

Wi-Fi: 802.11b/g

Video: 720 x 480

Battery: 1,100mAh Li-ion

Dimensions: (W x D X Hmm) 53.5 x 11.9 x 108.9 mm)

Weight: 110g

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Benny Har-Even is a twenty-year stalwart of technology journalism who is passionate about all areas of the industry, but telecoms and mobile and home entertainment are among his chief interests. He has written for many of the leading tech publications in the UK, such as PC Pro and Wired, and previously held the position of technology editor at ITPro before regularly contributing as a freelancer.

Known affectionately as a ‘geek’ to his friends, his passion has seen him land opportunities to speak about technology on BBC television broadcasts, as well as a number of speaking engagements at industry events.