HTC Magic Android Google 2 Unlocked SmartPhone--International Version with NoU.S. Warranty (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I'm an Apple guy. Always have been. I'm writing this on a MacBook Pro connected to an AirPort. I have an iPod, an Apple coffee mug, t-shirts from the various Macworld Expos I've attended, and even an Apple sticker on my car. So when it came time for me to join the 21st century and get my first "smart" phone, naturally I chose ... an HTC myTouch for T-Mobile.
Come again?
Okay, I've had iPhone envy for years now and have been spending my recent lunch hours playing with the new iPhone 3GS at the Apple Store in the mall connected to my office. I really like it, but I've been a happy T-Mobile customer for years now, since they were VoiceStream, and was reluctant to change carriers, especially with all the bad press about AT&T's coverage. (Apparently, there are so many iPhone users using their iPhones so much that the system can't handle the traffic, resulting in slow or no 3G connections and poor or non-existent call quality.) So the other day I stopped in at my local Radio Shack and found that they had the myTouch. None of them were "live," so the saleswoman let me pop my sim card into a brand new black one and play with it for a while. After she told me I could return the phone, without penalty, within 30 days if I didn't like it, I figured, why not? So I left the store with that new black myTouch in my pocket.
First impressions? It's a beautiful little phone. The screen is bright and colorful and I get a good connection to the internet and my e-mail. Calls are clear and strong, as always, and there are lots of free apps from the Android Market. The myTouch works seamlessly with my .Mac account, as well as my Gmail account, and everything is automatically synched between the phone and my Google calendar and contacts. I was a little concerned about no iTunes access, but there's a great free program called Double Twist that allows me to easily copy all of my content -- songs, photos, video, and more -- from my computer to the phone, so it's like having iTunes on the phone. Overall, it's a lot like an iPhone, only the T-Mobile service is cheaper than AT&T, and from all the complaints I've heard and read about, it's also more reliable.
Other reviewers have complained about the speed of e-mail, but my e-mails -- Gmail and my .Mac mail -- are very fast. I have the phone set to check every 5 minutes and have no lag at all. As for the keyboard, it's not that bad, but you can download the free HTC keyboard or buy the Better Keyboard or TouchPal, all of which work better -- problem solved.
So, at the end of 30 days, what am I going to do? The Apple-loving side of me would still like an iPhone, but there really isn't any need for one, given that the myTouch does just about everything the iPhone does, and it does it for less, and more reliably to boot. The iPhone undoubtedly has more available apps, but the Android Market already has thousands, most of which I couldn't care less about. Many more are sure to come. As much of an Apple fan as I am, I'm having a hard time justifying the extra cost of the AT&T service, particularly given all of the problems they're having. (I have lots of friends with iPhones and they all love it, but concede that it drops calls all the time, and that the call quality isn't that great. Call me old-fashioned, but I think a phone -- "smart" or not -- should be able to handle calls first and foremost.) And because the myTouch is still new, there aren't that many floating around yet, whereas the iPhone is now ubiquitous; even my 10 year old daughter's friend has one!
So, while I've only had it a couple weeks, I'm very impressed with the myTouch and think I'll be keeping it.

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Nokia E63-2 Unlocked Phone with 2 MP Camera, 3G, Wi-Fi, Media Player, and MicroSD Slot--U.S. Version with Warranty (Ruby Red) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Pros:
*Great screen resolution
*Awesome keyboard, very easy to type. Much better than the Blackberry Curve. Similar to the BOLD.
*Phone reception is very good no issues at all. I think I get a stronger 3G signal than my IPhone 3G
*As far as Data I use this phone with WI-FI only, and it has a great inbuilt tool that always asks which way you want to connect to the net. I can also set certain applications to use WI-FI by default so I done have to worry about accidentally using the data service. The WI-FI connectivity is great.
*Web browser is one of the best I have used. The IPhone browser is obviously better because of the screen size and the touch user interface. But the S60 browser is far better than the windows mobile or blackberry browsers. It even executes flash pages, YouTube mobile and many other flash oriented website.
*The email capabilities are amazing, Very easy to set up. I was able to access exchange email (via push) and Gmail without any issues at all. Nokia has some sort of trial email application [...] which works amazing well. I am able to use Gmail with push capability. That's something even the IPhone can't do yet. However this service is in beta and may be costly down the road. It rendered HTML emails perfectly.
*Attachments were easy to open and view. However quick office requires a 19.00 update to open the new MS Office 2007 file formats.
*I use Google for calendaring and contacts. Thanks to Google enabling Microsoft ActiveSync technology for its calendar and contacts applications I am able to sync real time. [...]
*As far listening to music the phone works quite well. It is obviously not even close to the I-Phone. If media is your primary requirement this particular model will be slightly disappointing. However I was able to transfer play list from I-tunes to the Nokia Music Desktop software and Sync the play lists with the phone [...] . The external speakers on the phone produce a crisp sound, better than the external speakers of the IPhone but not as good as the Blackberry Bold. Via headphones the sound was quite good. I was able to browse the music by play list, Artist, Album etc. I would say the music playback capability was as good as the blackberries with media Sync.
*I have not tried the video playback capabilities.
*The camera on the phone is quite adequate, and it has a flash that is amazingly bright. Be sure not flash someone in the eye as its blinding at a close range. I was able to take pictures and email as attachments and MMS them to my contacts without any issues. I felt the picture quality was as good as the IPhone. With the added bonus of a flash. The Video capability was decent and worked well. Nothing to write home about, but a cool feature to have.
*Files on OVI. Yes it is possible to install a desktop application called Files on OVI and access desktop files via the phone. It works well and setup was a breeze. Cool feature to have. But I did notice my desktop acting slightly slow and decided to uninstall it. But this is most likely a unique issue related to my desktop.
*The battery life was better than average no issues at all with heavy use. Three times better than the IPhone 3G
*It has an App store which is interesting and shows a lot of potential. I found many useful apps for free. (Nibmuzz, Bloomberg etc)
Cons:
*The lack of the side volume toggle is annoying. Mostly when trying to adjust the volume while listing to music and when trying to turn off the ringer when the phone is in the pocket.
*The User Interface is a little dated and does not feel very user friendly. The menu system is extensive but a little annoying at times as it requires multiple clicks to get simple things done.
*No USB data cable, memory card or out of the box compatibility for MS Office 2007 files formats. These upgrades cost me $46.00 (8GB Micro SDHC). This is a great phone for the price. I am a smart phone power user and have used Blackberries, IPhone and Windows mobile. I love what this phone can do out of the box. It is really a little gem. I would highly recommend this phone to anyone who does not want to sign or extend their contracts and does not need IPod like media capabilities. The lack of a volume toggle is not a deal breaker in my books. The rubberized plastic exterior is great and has a slight grip to it. I can't imagine how uncomfortable the Nokia E71 must feel in the hand with its metal exterior. Metal sounds cool and fancy but its slippery and gets cold. Hope this review helps!!
07/01/2010
The phone is still working well. However I think I may need to buy a new battery for it. I also downloaded the official skype app from [...] on to the phone. I am able to use skype just as I would on my iPhone 3G. Please keep in mind that I don't think the Nokia e63 is in anyway better than the iPhone 3G. It just so happens that I have both phones at the moment and I am able to review them side by side.
I was also able to use [...] and stream iTunes playlist from my desktop to my Nokia e63. < On your Orb PC, click Start > Run* type regedit (Disclaimer: Use the Registry Editor at your own risk) > In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Orb Networks\Orb\Config doubleclick on "app.iTunes.enabled" > In the pop up change the Value data to "true" > Close the Registry Editor > Restart Orb > Now login again to view the itunes playlists on the UI.>

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Designed for people who need to manage their business and personal lives equally well, the Nokia E63 is a more affordable sibling of the popular E71 mobile phone and it includes many of the same features, but in a plastic case rather than metal. With the E63, you'll be able to easily stay on top of your email inbox with a full QWERTY keyboard and support for corporate communication via Microsoft Exchange. It's ready to run on 3G networks in the U.S. (850/1900 MHz UMTS), enabling fast downloads and streaming multimedia while on the go.
It includes integrated Wi-Fi connectivity (802.11b/g) for accessing open networks at work, at home, and on the road, as well as connecting to Voice over IP (VoIP) internet telephony services. Other features include a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder, Bluetooth for handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, MicroSD memory expansion (up to 8 GB), built-in Nokia Maps application, 3.5mm headset jack, and up to 10.5 hours of talk time on standard GSM networks.

Unlocked PhoneThis unlocked cell phone can be used with a GSM network service provider and it provides quad-band connectivity (850/900/1800/1900 MHz). It does not come with a SIM card, and requires that you provide a SIM card for usage with your selected service provider. This phone comes with a full manufacturer's warranty.

Additionally, this version of the E63 (E63-2) can be paired with 850/1900 MHz UMTS 3G networks in the United States. When paired with a compatible 3G network, you'll enjoy a high-speed connection offering a variety of feature-rich wireless services--from data connectivity to your office to multimedia streaming, and take advantage of simultaneous voice and data services. In areas in the U.S. not served by a 3G network, or in foreign territories, you'll continue to receive data service via EDGE network (depending on network compatibility).

Phone Features As stylish as it is functional, the Nokia E63 sports a 2.4-inch LCD screen with 320 x 240-pixel resolution and support for 16 million colors. The full QWERTY keyboard makes it easy to compose and respond to email with just one hand. It features intelligent input with auto-completion, auto-correction, and learning capability for fast and error-free typing. The Nokia E63 also has the ability to switch modes with a single key press--switching from a view of corporate email, appointments, and intranet data, to a personal mode with a picture of friends, personal email, and shortcuts to favorite hobby blogs or websites. This phone has a 110 MB internal memory, which can be expanded via optional MicroSD memory cards (up to 8 GB in size).

The Nokia E63 comes fully equipped for easy-to-install and easy-to-use professional and personal email. People who use Microsoft Exchange at work can access their email using the Mail for Exchange mobile email client, which comes pre-loaded. You'll enjoy reliable real-time access to your email, calendar, contacts, and tasks, and be able to download attachments in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or PDF files directly to the device.

The Nokia E63 also supports email accounts from more than a thousand Internet service providers (ISPs) around the world, as well as Gmail, Yahoo! mail, and Hotmail. Additionally, it supports the Nokia Intellisync Wireless Email solution, as well as third party email solutions like System Seven and Visto Mobile.

Hands-free communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for the communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer. With the A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones. You can connect your laptop (either via Bluetooth or wired USB) and enjoy dial-up networking--surf the Internet, send email, and access files from a server (additional charges or subscription applicable).

The 2-megapixel camera (1600 x 1200-pixel maximum resolution) offers a wealth of features, including a digital zoom, LED flash, white balance modes, and a self timer. The phone can capture video clips up to 320 x 240 pixels (at 15 frames per second) at up to one hour in length, and it offers several adjustments including scene and white balance.

Take your media with you when you're out on the go. With the built-in RealPlayer software, you can stream and download your favorite content onto the phone and gain access to the latest news, sports, and entertainment updates. Or sync up with your PC and play the music and movies stored on your hard drive. It's compatible with a wide variety of digital audio formats (including MP3, AAC/AAC+/eAAC+, and WMA), so you can listen to your favorite radio programs via the integrated FM radio.

View web pages as they were originally intended with the integrated Nokia Web Browser, which enables you to zoom out to a full screen view of the entire page using the Mini Map feature. Find the section you want and then zoom in to the content you need. The text instantly adjusts to the size of your screen. The browser also keeps a history of your browsing so you can quickly get back to where you started.

Other features include:

Email support: IMAP4, Mail for Exchange, POP3, SMTP, IMAP IDLE, attachments
Messaging support: SMS, MMS
Instant messaging with Presence-enhanced contacts
110 MB internal dynamic memory; MicroSD expansion support to 8 GB
Applications include PDF Viewer, Quickoffice (Quickword, Quickpoint, Quicksheet), ZIP Manager, Nokia Maps, Flash Lite 3.0
Speaker dependent and speaker independent voice dialing
Intelligent input with auto-completion, auto-correction, and learning capability
Micro-USB connector, full-speed
Support for local and remote SyncML synchronisation, iSync, Intellisync, ActiveSync
FM radio (required wired headset to be attached)
Ovi Files service allows you to remotely manage and share files stored on a PC, even when the PC is switched off
Compatible with HSCSD (High-Speed Circuit Switched Data)
Bluetooth version 2.0 with the following profiles: A2DP (stereo music streaming), AVRC (remote control), HFP (hands-free car kits), HSP (communication headsets), BIP (for sending images to another device), DUN (dial-up networking), FTP (file transfer), OPP (object push for business cards, calendar items, and pictures), SPP (serial port profile)



Vital Statistics The Nokia E63 weighs 4.44 ounces and measures 2.32 x 4.45 x 0,51 inches. Its 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 11 hours of GSM talk time (4.7 hours on 3G), and up to 18 days of GSM standby time (20 days on 3G). It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies as well as 850/1900 MHz 3G networks.

What's in the Box Nokia E63, battery (BP-4L), charger (AC-8U), wired headset (WH-102), user guide, quick start guide, and other documentation

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Superpad 10.2" Tablet PC, Google Android 2.1, Webcam, GPS, HDMI, USB, WIFI, 2 micro SD card slots Review

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(More customer reviews)I have been using this android Superpad now for about a week. I wanted to wait until I had a chance to see how it works before I wrote a review.
The Superpad came with everything as promised. It was shipped from China and arrived quickly via FedEx at no additional charge. Upon opening the box, I found everything inside that was promised- pad, soft case, 110v charger, GPS antenna and manual. Of course it needed charging and I plugged it in overnight.
When I started to use the pad I found it was just like my Android phone in many respects. It took me little time to get familiar with the pad because of my past experience. The Google Marketplace was installed and it was easy to browse and install various apps that I wanted.
I have been able to upload many of the apps that I use on my phone as well as an "office" suite for all my docs I want to have with me. I was able to find an internet browser that supports most of the movie formats and that is a great addition. I have been using the 2- USB plugs to bring many items from my desktop into the pad and the fact that it has two memory card slots- micro sd- makes its memory grow to 64 gb. The camera works well and overall, I have had no problems with the unit.
I think my experience with the Android phone has helped in knowing how the OS works and understanding the Superpad better. It is no different than when you go from Windows to Windows 7- it takes a little time to get used to something new.
This is one slick little gadget that I am finding very useful- at $200-300 less than an i-Pad and with more standard features- it is a great buy!

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Motorola Motonav TN765T 5.1-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator Review

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(More customer reviews)Thanks to Amazon for a very prompt refund! In twelve years this is the only item I have ever returned to Amazon.
Let's start with the headlines, the good the bad and the ugly
Good:
* Very good screen resolution compared to other GPS of this type
* Address search is way fast - 6 seconds to calculate a coast to coast trip
* Good screen brightness
* Thin and light
* Lots of extras, live search options, fuel prices and all else
* Very good map and junction detail
* Physical map overlay on the 2D views
* Easy to change between 2D and 3D view
* Good phone integration - works with an LG Dare
* Good phone contact search
* Good volume and easy controls - but there is a down side
* Very well rendered 3D landmarks - but there's more to that too
* GPS lock on is very very fast. By the time it came up from cold the first time it was already locked on.
* The traffic receiver appears to be much more sensitive than the Garmin one
* Much better mount than Garmin or Tomtom, more reach, more adjustable and has locking joints.
Bad:
* Hesitates during text entry. Makes it difficult to know if it has accepted the keystroke and thus makes typing difficult
* Fiddly mount - not easy to locate the GPS correctly without practice
* Rear mounted buttons are easy to catch accidentally, especially when trying to adjust the angle
* If there's a way to enter custom POIs I haven't seen it yet
* Recent calls list appeared to be out of order, maybe oldest first?
* The adverts say Google, the menu says Bing
* The 2D North Up display hunts from side to side
* On high volume the speaker can be buzzy.
* Way fewer 3D landmarks than the advertising and manual suggest.
* Traffic information was iffy. It diverted me round incidents that were long gone or had never existed.
Ugly:
* Adverts! They come from the traffic receiver and interfere in other things.
* In 3D view the furthest you can see is about a mile. As you try to zoom further it turns in to 2D and reduces the distance you can see ahead.
* The auto zoom always zooms in until you are looking at just the next few hundred yards at most
* I took 16 minutes off a 90 minute predicted journey. It's hard to beat a Garmin route or ETA.
* Re routing likes to get you back to the route it suggested, long after it becomes ridiculous.Even after paying $330 for the unit and possibly another $50 per year for MotoExtras the traffic service is supported by advertising. This isn't just the little pop-up adverts that sit at the top right of the screen with no apparent way to dismiss them. I got a pop-up for Red Lobster, now I can't search for any restaurant without Red Lobster being inserted at the top. I guess they have a relationship with some vendors and push them to you. I thought I bought a GPS not an advertising portal!!!
To select a destination you can drag the screen, touch and move, don't tap. This works well in 2D. Just drag the map until you find where you want then zoom in to get a precise location. Hold your finger on the destination until the options pop up and select the destination flag. Alternatively tap the screen then enter the address or business name. I am in San Francisco CA, it took six seconds to plot a route to an address in the woods near Manchester NH, 2500 miles away. I could not route from the US to a Canadian destination, so cross border routes seem to be a problem.
POI searches are limited to your local, it showed me nearby locations for Elephant Bar but not the one in Dublin, 18 miles away, that I wanted to go to. Probably OK in a big city, not so good in central Nevada. I currently pay to not have adverts on my Nuvi 670, this doesn't not seem to be an option on the TN765t.
The windshield mount has adjustable locks on the moving joints, it give good flexibility and yet can be locked tight. Mounting the unit was a little fiddly, the locating pins are hard to find by touch.
It's a nice machine, but I am sending it back. A 3D view is best for seeing where you are and what is coming next but the way Motorola has implemented it robs you of the necessary long distance view. At under a mile you are only looking 40 seconds or so up the road. Not far enough to see where you are in relation to other things. With the auto zoom on, Garmin will show you hundreds of miles ahead when you have a long way to the next turn. The TN765t shows only a few hundred yards. Useful to see if there's a turn coming, but not to see if you are passing a city or coming to a ferry in ten miles.
When you are navigating somewhere the route is displayed down the left of the display as a vertical bar. The distance traveled is shown as a bar graph moving up from the bottom. Traffic issues are shown as red areas on the line. The time to go is shows at the bottom. If you tap this line you get an overall view of the route with known incidents and your route displayed, but it is very small. In the SF Bay Area on a Friday afternoon there are so many incidents that you can't see the route or the traffic. The Garmin traffic display works much better. The right 2/3rds of the display has plenty of resolution to show its normal display. The left has two buttons that allow you to select various views including route information, turn by turn directions, traffic details and so on.
Routing round traffic the Motonav initially didn't want me to leave I880 though the Garmin told me there was a 25 minute delay. Once the traffic cleared up the Motonav wanted me to take side roads in East Oakland on the opposite side of I880 from my destination. The Garmin knew there was no traffic and directed me straight home. At that time the Garmin was telling me I had 8 minutes to go and the Motonav said 19. I made it home in 6.
Connecting and syncing my LG Dare phone via Bluetooth was very easy. At full volume the Bluetooth hands free phone was buzzy and distorted, the far end said that the call was very clear, especially compared to the Garmin. Reducing volume cured that. Voice recognition was poor for my deep toned English accent.
The map display shows restaurants and warning indicators on the 3D display, it also shows Arco gas stations but not my favorites, Shell. I'd like to know how to add the POIs that matter to me. Maybe it's possible and I just haven't found it yet? In the Garmin and Tomtom it is easy to add the current POI list for Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts. For what it's worth the Tomtom does a better job of showing them.
To change between 2D and 3D tap the eye symbol on the left then tap the current setting and the three options are shown. In 2D modes you can zoom far out so that you can see the whole country. The 2D views also overlaid the physical map, so you could see the roads picking their way through the mountains. This can be very useful. You can also disable autozoom here.
The track up displays, 2D and 3D, hunt from side to side at low speed. When you stop the map sometimes spins as the position shifts slightly, GPS is accurate to 10m so you can appear to be wandering slightly even when stationary and especially when coverage is bad. Coverage was good and the Garmin doesn't do this.
Voice commands are clear and timely. Voice warnings are also given for 'safety cameras' and speed traps. If you want to mute the sound you just have to tap the button on the bottom right rear.
In the advertising and manuals the 3D views show a city with all the major buildings as landmarks. Right now there are very few shown in San Francisco, but there may be a download to improve this soon. I have not seen it, if I do I will update.
The map rendering is smooth compared to other PNDs I have used. Motorola obviously didn't go cheap on the processor the way Garmin does. Garmin tends to spoil the whole effect to save ten bucks on the processor. At freeway junctions the lane choices are shown at the top of the screen. Very useful, though not 100% accurate, 7 lanes shown when there are 8 or 6 in reality.
So, most of it works great, but some of the bits that I really rely on, and need, aren't acceptable. After about four hours of side by side comparison we still prefer the Garmin 670. They just haven't got the usability right. With the Garmin I very seldom need to change the zoom to see something else, when I am close to a turn I have the detail I need and further out I have the big picture. Garmin has always been good at the auto zoom.
So near and yet the issues are just something I can't live with.
Their web sites are still in Beta and the upgrade site isn't available yet, however there's an update application to download and install instead. Once I fired it up I was informed there were two updates, 12MB and 474MB, probably program and maps. I installed both with no problems. I believe I registered on three different associated web sites before I finally got a username and password for all the things I needed.
The Motorola Extras package is $50 per year or $100 for 3 years. I don't think I need that, my phone already does all that, so it provides nothing to me though it is convenient.
FWIW this is certainly not as good as the factory fit navigation in the Infiniti QX56 or the Ford Flex's Sync system.

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HTC Magic G2 Google Android - Unlocked QuadBand Cellular Phone with 3.2 MP Camera, GPS, WiFi - International Version with No Warranty (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I love this phone. However, I live in Sweden so beware that some features may not be exactly the same. UPDATE: I have now had this phone for about a month and have these comments (see UPDATE notes).
First, this is a great phone. Hands down...and I live in Sweden where there are more cellphones per capita than anywhere else. As for the other reviewer...I don't know why someone complains about the virtual keyboard and no physical keypad. Buy a phone with a keyboard, silly, if you don't like tapping the screen. I for one used to have a Nokia E61 with a real keyboard. Great. But, I really like this onscreen keyboard. It's fast, easy to use, and even though it suggests words for you (and gets smarter with time) you can suggest the word you want from four suggestions (iPhone has only two). This phone is obviously trying to get you to shy away from the iPhone...and you should. It's that good.
Pros:
Flexibility - I can configure the homescreens any way I want. UPDATE: This is just great. Really. I can change the phone as I learn what I need and don't need. Lot's of hype in the cellphone world, but few useful tools. This really helps me stay connected and it is easy and quick to make a direct call, take a picture, check my google map position, send an email, etc.
Fast - this phone is really fast and does multitasking very well. I can surf the web while listening to a tune while using the GPS...and it doesn't bog down! UPDATE: Yep, this really works. Just went hiking in the woods of Sweden...where the logging road ends. Did perfectly. Used my GPS while I listened to my radiostation on LastFM through the phone...in the woods! The iPhone bogs down.
Form - it's fits really nicely in my pocket. Not too heavy, not too big. UPDATE: The screen doesn't scratch badly at all, and if you want additional scratch protection go to [...].
Battery - stellar battery life. UPDATE: Go easy on the app downloads from the Market/app store. Some apps drain the battery. Again, the iPhone drains your battery badly.
Market - ok, so it's not the Apple store, but it has a lot of useful programs. UPDATE: I have a great email program (K-9), push SMS (SMS popup), instant access to wifi/GPS/bluetooth etc (Useful switches).
Google syncing - works perfectly to sync my web calender with my phone with my sidebar at home. UPDATE: Really love this one. Type in a new calender event and your google calender and your google toolbar are updated within the minute. Sweet.
Cons:
Really, so far I haven't found any...except to figure out how to get the same timezone on all three calenders...UPDATE: I did.
UPDATE: Actually, the calender is subpar...so far until the Market provides a new one. You really can't adjust it very well. I would like different colors for different events; start the week on a Monday; Week number.
However, buy this phone and you won't be disappointed!

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Google Nexus One Unlocked Phone with Android - US Warranty - Brown Review

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(More customer reviews)I almost cried when I returned the Motorola DROID A855 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) to Verizon due to connectivity problems but now I am glad I ended up with the Google Nexus One Unlocked Phone! This Nexus One hasn't failed me yet; it has strong 3G connectivity with T-Mobile and strong Edge connectivity with AT&T. The phone is gorgeous (AMOLED display - Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode) and amazingly fast (snapdragon processor) and fun (Android 2.1 interface enhancements)!
I love the droid platform that you can customize and aren't stuck with the rigid iPhone experience.
I love Google's turn by turn navigation which usually works for me by voice command such as "Navigate to Fry's Electronics" and it will give me choice on screen of which two locations in my city do I want directions to? I touch screen my selection and it starts telling me how to drive there. I have found Google's Navigation better than Garmin in that it gives a better gas-saving route and tells you the turns before you get to them rather than after you already passed them. I do prefer hard keyboards which Nexus One doesn't have so Verizon's Motorola Droid wins out there! I was hoping they had used the money saved on no landscape keyboard to put in BETTER microphones and really fix the Voice Command making typing obsolete, but no. However, Swype and other keyboard apps can improve your virtual keyboard experience. The phone has been dissected and the parts apparently come to $174 in change and the rest is Google's profit.
Another reviewer said low battery on Nexus One, to fix that, just download free app Advanced Task Killer and shut down running software that you don't need running and it will last longer. Also, you can make it run edge instead of 3G which will save on battery. There are a lot of settings you can easily adjust to conserve your battery life. Battery life for the Nexus One is as follows: 10 hours of 2G talk time or 7 hours of 3G talk time; 12 days of 2G standby time or 10.4 hours of 3G standby time; 5 hours of Internet use on 3G or 6.5 hours on Wi-Fi; 7 hours of video playback and 20 hours of audio playback. According to FCC radiation tests, the Nexus One has a digital SAR of 0.867 watt per kilogram.
Also, another reviewer said that low privacy due to syncing with his desktop, but you can turn off syncing in your settings if you don't want them to sync. The syncing is actually one of the features that I think appeals to most Android/google fans.
I love the Amazon ap and being able to scan UPC codes to do comparison shopping and read Amazon reviews!
The 3D AMOLED screen is breath-taking. The interactive wallpapers are fun.
I bought the Nexus One unlocked from Google for $529 plus tax. I have always been impressed with how innovative google is but the experience of buying a phone from them is horrid. I would not do it again. They are not providing any customer service other than to tell you to call TMobile about the service or HTC about hardware questions. Google will not provide a customer service telephone number even AFTER you have given them almost $600; there is no customer service on the packing slip or anywhere to be found. They have a help forum where supposedly you can get help from other CUSTOMERS but they themselves will not help you out. TMobile CSRs say they will have this phone available for sale in their store by the end of January and I would definitely recommend buying it from them instead of Google. Also if you buy it from Google, TMobile insurance against damage, loss, theft, etc is unavailable; the only insurance you can get on the Google phone when you buy from google is from square trade which has a deductible and is limited in what it will cover. I do really like and use the UNLOCKED status of the phone and don't know if TMobile will be selling it unlocked as that is something new to be offered in USA. It is so great for traveling abroad; just pop in a prepaid SIM card from that country and you are ready to roll without roaming fees! I suppose if TMobile doesn't sell it unlocked you just need to go to the same little bit of extra trouble to unlock the phone so you don't end up having to turn over the farm to TMobile/AT&T for roaming fees!
I received my phone 01/08/10 and am thinking it is a definite keeper but I am still playing around with it and learning it. Nexus One is FUN! It is pretty! It is fast! It is so enjoyable I have almost forgotten the awful Google buying experience.
UPDATE jan 17 2010 - I brought my Nexus One to the AT&T Kiosk and the guys there both said WOW, I was happy with my iPhone 3GS when I woke up this morning but now I want one of these! I explained it was only on EDGE and not 3G but they said that the snapdragon processor made up for it that you notice the speed lag only in downstreaming video or megafiles. they volunteered that AT&T is "in no hurry" to get the Nexus One running on their 3G network since they can not sell the phone and all the retail profit is going to google; they are putting their efforts into their next new phone which I think they called the Elite.
Google now has a couple of employees on their help forum attempting customer service but failing. Google has made its fortune by advertising mostly and acting like any actual interaction with their customers will give them the cooties, so I guess it is too late to change. Offering the phone unlocked when brand new is really great and may be lost if only sold by the carrier. So Google if you are listening here is how you can go into the phone-selling business without getting the cooties - partner with Amazon and Wal-mart (retail and online). These retail giants have proven records of consistent great customer service. Let them sell your unlocked phones for you and collect a profit for providing customer service and you get to continue to rake in the big bucks without having any actual contact with your customers and not tarnish your reputation when people experience what it is like to interact with you rather than admire you from afar. The retail store with the best customer service record in cellphones though is Best Buy; let them sell your phone unlocked and customer satisfaction will soar!
Another reviewer said he didn't know why people would buy it here for more than what google charges but the answer is crystal clear - one google is not selling to many countries yet and secondly amazon will provide customer service and won't charge a re-stocking fee.
I am really enjoying my Nexus One and am thinking it is the KEEPER
Feb3, 2010 update
This phone really shows off YouTube! Their HD concerts and other clips are stellar to watch on this phone! Watching theater previews on the movies app (free) is a fun experience. The picture is HD and the sound quality is best with ear phones.
While there are fewer apps than iPhone, there are more free apps. How many apps does one need anyway? I try to keep my phone light so it is ripped and ready to fly fast!
There is a great silicone coating making the nexus one almost impossible to scratch! There is a great YouTube video where someone is intentionally trying to scratch the nexus one screen as well as the back with their car keys and can't! : )
I got a computer in my pocket and I am lovin' it!
UPDATE Feb9,2010 Now there is a Google Nexus one Customer Support number 888-48Nexus (888 486 3987) so might be worth a try to purchase from Google! Maybe they have seen the light!
Also software update released earlier this week includes MULTI-TOUCH that so many people seem to really like!
UPDATE Feb16,2010 Google Voice is fully integrated on this phone so using it for texting in or out is as easy as the regular messaging icon. But Google Voice has free text messaging so you can have your carrier block texting using their system and save the $10-20/month or whatever your carrier is currently charging you for texting.
UPDATE April24,2010 I purchased the car dock and am loving my N1 even more! You can use your phone with a Bluetooth headset while it's in the Car Dock; when you dock your phone for the first time, you'll be prompted with a dialog box to select the dock's audio settings. Just uncheck the "As speaker phone" option, and your phone will be able to pair with a Bluetooth headset. To change these settings later, go to Menu > Dock settings while Car Dock is running.
UPDATE May31,2010 I guess the Nexus One is no longer available on google's website and will soon be sold in stores where you can pick up, touch, and play with before shelling out big bucks. I am still very happy with my Nexus One! If I was to choose again today the smartphone right for me, I would choose this one again. My son just terminated iPhone Friday and got the HTC DROID INCREDIBLE Android Phone (Verizon Wireless) from Verizon and that is probably the best choice for him as he wanted to leave AT&T and go with Verizon. The incredible is made by HTC like the Nexus One that I enjoy! I love the open android platform and think he will fall in love with it too. He has only had it a few hours but already is saying how cool it is to be so integrated with google unlike his iPhone. I prefer my NexusOne as I can stick an activated GoPhone SIM card in there and it works; I don't have to sign a 2 year contract for overpriced service like my son did! He had to pay AT&T money too to get out of his iPhone contract. I'm on wifi most of the time and just...Read more›

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Representing the next stage in smartphone development, the unlocked Google Nexus One phone from HTC offers supercharged power with one of the fastest processors currently available in a smartphone, a 3.7-inch AMOLED touch display, and access to all your contacts and most important data from a variety of Google tools via the Android 2.1 operating system. With integrated Google technology, the Nexus One brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by Voice, YouTube and Picasa.
In addition to 3G connectivity, the Nexus One offers Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and business networks as well as hotspots while on the go and Bluetooth connectivity for both hands-free devices and stereo music streaming. Other features include assisted GPS (AGPS) with Google Maps Navigation providing turn-by-turn voice guidance, memory expansion via microSD memory cards (a 4 GB card is included with the device), threaded messaging for seamless on-the-go conversations, and up to 7 hours of 3G talk time.
Unlocked Phone The Nexus One is unlocked and will recognize SIM cards from any mobile service provider using the GSM standard. The Nexus One's antenna supports four GSM radio frequencies (850/900/1800/1900) and three 3G/UMTS Bands (2100/AWS/900). These cover most major GSM mobile providers worldwide, including T-Mobile in the United States, but not the 850 MHz 3G band used by AT&T. The Nexus One will, however, deliver 2G/EDGE speeds on these networks, and of course supports Wi-Fi as well.
Nexus One Software Innovation The Nexus One runs on Android 2.1, a version of the platform's Eclair software, which offers advanced applications and features including:
Google Maps Navigation: offering turn-by-turn driving directions with voice output.
E-mail: multiple Gmail accounts; universal inbox and Exchange support.
Phone book: aggregate contacts from multiple sources, including Facebook.
Quick Contacts: easily switch between communication and social applications.
Android Market: access to more than 18,000 applications.
It also includes the following applications on the home screen:
Gmail: Your Inbox displays conversations with the newest messages at the top. To read a message in a threaded conversation, touch its subject. (Learn more)
YouTube: Use the YouTube application to view, search for, upload, and share videos. Like the version you use on your PC, YouTube on the Nexus One presents the videos grouped into categories, such as Most viewed, Most discussed, Most recent, and Top rated. (Learn more)
Messaging: You can use Messaging to exchange text (SMS) and multimedia messages (MMS) with your friends' mobile phones. Touch New message to start a new text or multimedia message, or touch an existing message thread to open it. (Learn more)
Music: Use the Music application to listen to and organize audio files you have transferred onto your microSD card from your computer. (Learn more)
Maps: With Google Maps on your phone, you can find your current location, view real-time traffic conditions, and get detailed directions by foot, public transportation, or car. You'll also be able to navigate using spoken, turn-by-turn driving instructions as well as switch between viewing a street map or a satellite image. (Learn more)
Car Home: Access Google Maps, Navigation, Voice Search, Contacts, and Search with the touch of a button. Car Home opens with five large buttons that you can touch to access applications that are most useful when you're driving. (Learn more)
Android Market: With the Android Market, you can browse and search for free and paid applications. Once you find an application you want, you can install it on your phone. (Learn more)


Key Features
Fast 3G connectivity via UMTS Band 1/4/8 (2100/AWS/900)
Quad-band GSM connectivity for global voice roaming
Enter text without typing. Use a voice-enabled keyboard for all text fields: speak a text message, instant message, tweet, Facebook update, or complete an e-mail.
Tell your phone what you want it to do. Search Google, call contacts, or get driving directions by just speaking into your phone.
Take personalization to the next level. Dynamic, interactive, live wallpapers react to the touch of a finger. And more widgets and five home screen panels allow for further device customization.
Read your voice-mail messages. Get transcribed voice-mail with Google Voice integration, without changing your number.
Real HTML Web browsing provides more pages and better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone (Android Webkit HTML5-based browser).
3.7-inch widescreen WVGA AMOLED touchscreen (800 x 480 pixels; 100,000:1 typical contrast ratio; 1ms typical response rate)
Haptic feedback
5-megapixel camera includes LED flash, auto focus, 2x digital zoom, white balance and color effects. View pictures and Picasa Web Albums in the new 3D Gallery. Record high-resolution MPEG4 video, and then upload to YouTube with one click.
Capture DVD-quality video at 720x480 pixels at 20 frames per second or higher, depending on lighting conditions
Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile--enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 32 GB; a 4 GB card included. (Onboard memory: 512 MB Flash, 512 MB RAM)
Trackball navigation with tri-color notification LED, alerts when new e-mails, chats, and text messages arrive
Dynamic noise suppression with second microphone
3.5mm stereo headphone jack
Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 3G QSD8250 chipset, delivering speeds up to 1 GHz

Vital Statistics The Google Nexus One weighs 4.59 ounces and measures 4.69 x 2.35 x 0.45 inches. Its 1400 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 7 hours of 3G talk time (10 hours on 2G networks), and up to 250 hours (10+ days) of 3G standby time (290 hours on 2G networks). It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies as well as 2100/AWS/900 3G networks.
What's in the Box Google Nexus One handset, rechargeable battery, charger, pouch, wired headset, USB cable, quick start guide

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Motorola Milestone Droid Unlocked Quad-Band GSM Phone with 5 MP Camera, MP3, Wi-Fi, GPS, Stereo Bluetooth--International Version with Warranty (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I should have spent more time on forums before splurging over $700 on the GSM Milestone.
1] A smartphone is, first and foremost, a phone. And this is where Milestone fails miserably. While you can hear callers fine, folks on the other end have a tough time hearing you. Words go missing, speech is garbled, goes up and down in volume... At first, I though the network was to blame, but after trawling Motorola's support forums, it seems to be a common problem. People on their second and even third handsets are still experiencing horrible call quality. I switched SIM cards and tried the phone in different locations, but the problem persists.
2] The camera is useless because of the infamous 28.5 days bug. Have been regularly checking for firmware updates, but nothing so far.
3] Note that the GSM version comes with 8GB microsd, not 16GB like the Verizon Droid. I was not aware of this difference.
4] The unit I got was from the German market. There is no Google Voice Search on it! Apparently the UK version has it, but there seems to be no way to switch ROMs.
5] The phone cannot be rooted currently. While it may not matter to most people, I would love to switch over to other ROMs, especially for Voice Search.
6] No divx/ xvid support. My previous phone was the Omnia HD and the extensive file format support is something I miss on the Milestone.
7] After two weeks of struggling with the keyboard, I gave up. Maybe my fingers are too fat, and your experience might be much better.
Having said all this, the phone is amazing device to hold. Sturdy, industrial build quality, great screen, the slider takes 'manly force' to open up, Android has lot of potential and pretty close to iPhone OS in fluid use (yes, have used an iPhone for over two years)... The Market is good enough and there are lot of free quality software available.
So I would recommend you buy this phone, but with a caveat. Make sure you can return it back easily, if you run into similar problems.
As for me, the Milestone is tucked away in a drawer, waiting for firmware updates that will make it usable again.
I have moved on to the HTC HD2 and am loving that huge screen. Yes, it is Winmo, but fingers crossed - someday hackers will figure out how to put Android on it. And then I should be in phone nirvana.
Bests!

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HTC Desire A8181 Android Smartphone with 5 MP Camera, Wi-Fi, Touchscreen and Bluetooth--International Version with No Warranty Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have had my unlocked HTC Desire for a little over two weeks. At first, I was thrilled with it because it has such a nice display and Android 2.1 runs so smoothly. In the last couple of days, though, it has developed an annoying issue and I think all potential buyers should be warned. Occasionally when placing a call, the screen will go blank and there is no way to end the call or get the display back. HTC delivered at least my Desire with this flaw - and there are some hits on Google about this. All you have to do is Google "HTC Desire screen goes blank" to see what I mean. Apparently, the proximity sensor used by HTC does not work correctly all of the time. What it should do is turn off the screen and disable the buttons when you place the phone to your ear. The faulty sensor does not turn the screen back on and enable the buttons when you pull the phone away from your ear. I am hoping the Android 2.2 update will fix this problem, otherwise I am going to return my phone before the 30-day return period expires.
** Edited to add **
Two things have eliminated this problem today - and I do not know which helped the most. First, Android 2.2 was offered on the Desire today and I updated it. Second, one internet post indicated that a clear scratch protector may be causing the problem. I removed the scratch protector from the screen and the problem has gone away. I am not comfortable using it with no scratch protector - but I am much happier with the phone.

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HTC Legend A6363 Unlocked GSM Android Based Smartphone with 5 MP Camera, Wi-Fi, gps navigation, Touchscreen and Bluetooth -- International Version with No Warranty (Silver) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had my Legend for a week now and can still barely put it down! The integration between apps is amazing. I like the selection of apps from the android market - and the HTC Sense UI makes the whole thing really quite intuitive. This is my first touch-screen phone (I've always had physical keyboard'd phones previously). This is easy to type on, the predictive-text is great.
The cons: With heavy usage, my battery will last me about 12 hrs max. With regular usage then 2 days is typical. The AMOLED screen is awesome, but fairly hard to see outside. I didn't think it would matter that much-- but the place it impacts me is if I'm taking pictures (need to see the screen as the viewfinder). If I place my hand over it for shade, it's generally enough, but still makes me wish I could see it better.
The speed of the device is great. I'm actively recommending it to any of my friends who are in the market right now.l

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