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At just over a half-inch thick, the Motorola RAZR V3 is the perfect combination of sleek design and powerful features. And with AT&T’s GoPhone pay-as-you-go service, you pay for just the minutes you use without having to sign up for an annual contract–this phone even comes with $50 of airtime included. You can easily refill your minutes via prepaid cards or the Internet, or choose to prepay each month and roll over unused minutes. An impressive quad-band GSM phone (great for global travelers), the RAZR V3 includes a VGA (640 x 480) camera, Bluetooth connectivity for communication headsets, dual LCD screens, video clip playback, and up to 7 hours of talk time.

Two great tastes that taste great together: the Motorola RAZR V3 and AT&T’s GoPhone prepaid plans.

AT&T GoPhone Service
AT&T’s pay-as-you-go GoPhone plans are wireless plans made easy. Simply pay in advance for what you need. No long-term contracts, credit checks, or surprise bills–just all the benefits of wireless, with no complications. In addition, AT&T’s Rollover Balance feature lets you carry over your unused account balance when you purchase refill minutes before your balance expires. Other great features include no long distance or roaming fees across AT&T’s national service area, the ability to track usage via text messages with an updated balance after each call, and the ability to refill your minutes 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. You can also cancel any time without penalty.

With the Pay As You Go option, you’ll choose the rate plan that fits your needs and then start dialing. Your balance is lowered each time you make or receive a call or use services such as text messaging. You can then refill the minutes in your account via the Internet, using your phone (by calling 611 from your cell), or purchasing a pre-paid card in denominations up to $100.

With the Pick Your Plan option, you’ll set up monthly, automatic payments with your credit/debit card or checking account. If you need to make more calls or you use up your balance during the month, just add minutes to your account at any time–you’ll pay the same per-minute rate as your plan. You can buy more minutes in increments of $15 and $25 using your credit/debit card or checking account.

AT&T has also introduced a new $3 Unlimited calling plan, which charges you $3 per day for unlimited voice calls to anyone nationwide with no per-minute charges. The $3 per day fee is only charged on days when you make or receive a voice call, and the service does not require a deposit or long-term commitment.

Phone Features
The RAZR V3 has a large 176 x 220 color display with 262,000 colors dominates the inside of the top cover, and a supplementary 96 x 80 full-color display on the outside that can display pictures, time, call information, battery and signal strength, and more. Most of the phone’s features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button on the handset’s backlit control pad, which is precision cut from a single sheet of nickel-plated copper alloy. A charging port and USB data cable port is placed on the bottom of the phone.

The RAZR V3’s internal phone book can hold up to 1000 contacts, while the phone’s picture ID system allows you to assign pictures to your most common callers. It also 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 an included application, MotoMixer, that lets you mix your own ringtones. For times when you want to be discreet, there’s a vibrating alert. A built-in 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 RAZR V3 is a messaging and wireless Internet powerhouse. Support is built in for sending and receiving pictures, text, graphics, sound and video via messages. When used in combination with the phone’s built-in still and video camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. Instant messaging is also included (with support for AOL, Yahoo!, MSN, and ICQ), and the phone ships with a built-in email client with support for POP3, IMAP4 and SMTP protocols. iTap 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.

A number of handy software tools are bundled with the RAZR V3 including a voice memo recorder, a calculator with currency converter, a calendar and an alarm clock. Use the phone’s Bluetooth capability to set up a wireless link with a Bluetooth accessory or connect to a computer or hand-held device to exchange and synchronize data. The phone also supports the SyncML PC synchronization standard, can be used with Motorola’s Mobile Phone Tools PC application to manage and synchronize contacts, calendar and other data with your PC.

The phone’s VGA camera features a 4x zoom, image quality options, and an auto-timer so you can be in your pictures, too. Capture stills and then send them to your friends via MMS messaging or email, or to your PC via USB or Bluetooth. The phone is capable of MPEG4 video playback when you receive a video message, or if you upload video to the phone via USB or Bluetooth. The RAZR V3 also supports custom graphics for wallpapers so you can dress up the phone to suit your fancy.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola RAZR V3 weighs 3.35 ounces and measures 3.86 x 2.09 x 0.54 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6.67 hours of digital talk time, and up to 250 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies.

Wireless Phone: 
Easy-to-use clamshell phone for voice communication and text messaging–includes $50 airtime credit with AT&T’s GoPhone service, Pay for just the minutes you use with no annual contract–easy refill via Internet or prepaid cards, VGA camera, video clip playback, Bluetooth connectivity for communication headsets, Up to 6.7 hours of talk time, up to 250 hours (10+ days) of standby time, What’s in the Box: handset, battery, travel charger, user guide

Company: Motorola 

(2008-03-03)

List Price: $174.99
Amazon Price: $99.99

Heavy on functionality and light on the budget, the Samsung A177 boasts a full QWERTY keyboard so you can express yourself through text messaging, mobile email and instant messaging. And, with one-touch messaging, you can share the latest news with your crew starting with the press of a single key. And with AT&T’s GoPhone pay-as-you-go service, you pay for just the minutes you use without having to sign up for an annual contract–this phone even comes with $15 of airtime included. You can easily refill your minutes via prepaid cards or the Internet, or choose to prepay each month and roll over unused minutes. Other features include a VGA camera for still photos, Bluetooth for handsfree devices, 50 MB of internal user-accessible memory, personal organizer tools, and up to 5 hours of talk time.

With AT&T’s GoPhone service, you pay for just the minutes you use with no annual contract.

AT&T GoPhone Service
AT&T’s pay-as-you-go GoPhone plans are wireless plans made easy. Simply pay in advance for what you need. No long-term contracts, credit checks, or surprise bills–just all the benefits of wireless, with no complications. In addition, AT&T’s Rollover Balance feature lets you carry over your unused account balance when you purchase refill minutes before your balance expires. Other great features include no long distance or roaming fees across AT&T’s national service area, the ability to track usage via text messages with an updated balance after each call, and the ability to refill your minutes 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. You can also cancel any time without penalty.

With the Pay As You Go option, you’ll choose the rate plan that fits your needs and then start dialing. Your balance is lowered each time you make or receive a call or use services such as text messaging. You can then refill the minutes in your account via the Internet, using your phone (by calling 611 from your cell), or purchasing a pre-paid card in denominations up to $100.

With the Pick Your Plan option, you’ll set up monthly, automatic payments with your credit/debit card or checking account. If you need to make more calls or you use up your balance during the month, just add minutes to your account at any time–you’ll pay the same per-minute rate as your plan. You can buy more minutes in increments of $15 and $25 using your credit/debit card or checking account.

AT&T has also introduced a new $3 Unlimited calling plan, which charges you $3 per day for unlimited voice calls to anyone nationwide with no per-minute charges. The $3 per day fee is only charged on days when you make or receive a voice call, and the service does not require a deposit or long-term commitment.

Phone Features
The Samsung A177 messaging phone has a 2.2-inch LCD screen (220 x 176 pixels, 65K color depth), which sits atop a standard navigation pad that’s complemented by send/end and soft navigation keys as well as a dedicated messaging key. The full QWERTY keyboard below the navigation area makes it easy to precisely type out email and text/instant messages while on the go, and it includes a dedicated camera key. The phone includes 64 MB of internal memory (approximately 50 MB user accessible), which cannot be expanded. The phonebook can store up to 500 contacts with support for multiple numbers per entry as well as photo/ringer ID and caller groups.

Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer.

You’ll be able to stay in close contact with friends and family via both text (SMS) and picture (MMS) messaging, and this phone provides access to popular instant messaging services (including AIM, Yahoo!, and Windows Live) for fast, on-the-go conversations. Additionally, this phone also includes support for accessing personal email from POP3 and IMAP4 accounts. This handset includes built-in T9 predictive text entry technology, which makes it easier to enter words and text.

Other features include:

• VGA digital camera (640 x 480 pixels) for still photos with 4x digital zoom
• Organizer tools: alarm, calendar, memo book, clock, world time, currency converter, calculator
• MP3 and 64-chord polyphonic ringtones plus vibrate mode
• Digital audio player compatible with MP3 files
• Downloadable games
• Speakerphone

Vital Statistics
The Samsung A177 weighs 3.09 ounces and measures 4.29 x 2.32 x 0.47 inches. Its 800 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 240 hours of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies.

Wireless Phone: 
Easy-to-use messaging phone with full QWERTY keyboard–includes $15 airtime credit with AT&T’s GoPhone service, Pay for just the minutes you use with no annual contract–easy refill via Internet or prepaid cards, VGA camera for still photos; Bluetooth for handsfree devices; personal organizer tools; access to popular instant messaging services, Up to 5 hours of talk time, up to 240 hours (10 days) of standby time, What’s in the Box: handset, battery, charger, quick reference guide, user manual

Company: Samsung 

(2009-04-30)

List Price: $99.99
Amazon Price: $99.99

Heavy on functionality and light on the budget, the Samsung A177 boasts a full QWERTY keyboard so you can express yourself through text messaging, mobile email and instant messaging. And, with one-touch messaging, you can share the latest news with your crew starting with the press of a single key. And with AT&T’s GoPhone pay-as-you-go service, you pay for just the minutes you use without having to sign up for an annual contract–this phone even comes with $15 of airtime included. You can easily refill your minutes via prepaid cards or the Internet, or choose to prepay each month and roll over unused minutes. Other features include a VGA camera for still photos, Bluetooth for handsfree devices, 50 MB of internal user-accessible memory, personal organizer tools, and up to 5 hours of talk time.

With AT&T’s GoPhone service, you pay for just the minutes you use with no annual contract.

AT&T GoPhone Service
AT&T’s pay-as-you-go GoPhone plans are wireless plans made easy. Simply pay in advance for what you need. No long-term contracts, credit checks, or surprise bills–just all the benefits of wireless, with no complications. In addition, AT&T’s Rollover Balance feature lets you carry over your unused account balance when you purchase refill minutes before your balance expires. Other great features include no long distance or roaming fees across AT&T’s national service area, the ability to track usage via text messages with an updated balance after each call, and the ability to refill your minutes 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. You can also cancel any time without penalty.

With the Pay As You Go option, you’ll choose the rate plan that fits your needs and then start dialing. Your balance is lowered each time you make or receive a call or use services such as text messaging. You can then refill the minutes in your account via the Internet, using your phone (by calling 611 from your cell), or purchasing a pre-paid card in denominations up to $100.

With the Pick Your Plan option, you’ll set up monthly, automatic payments with your credit/debit card or checking account. If you need to make more calls or you use up your balance during the month, just add minutes to your account at any time–you’ll pay the same per-minute rate as your plan. You can buy more minutes in increments of $15 and $25 using your credit/debit card or checking account.

AT&T has also introduced a new $3 Unlimited calling plan, which charges you $3 per day for unlimited voice calls to anyone nationwide with no per-minute charges. The $3 per day fee is only charged on days when you make or receive a voice call, and the service does not require a deposit or long-term commitment.

Phone Features
The Samsung A177 messaging phone has a 2.2-inch LCD screen (220 x 176 pixels, 65K color depth), which sits atop a standard navigation pad that’s complemented by send/end and soft navigation keys as well as a dedicated messaging key. The full QWERTY keyboard below the navigation area makes it easy to precisely type out email and text/instant messages while on the go, and it includes a dedicated camera key. The phone includes 64 MB of internal memory (approximately 50 MB user accessible), which cannot be expanded. The phonebook can store up to 500 contacts with support for multiple numbers per entry as well as photo/ringer ID and caller groups.

Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and includes profiles for communication headset, handsfree car kits, and file transfer.

You’ll be able to stay in close contact with friends and family via both text (SMS) and picture (MMS) messaging, and this phone provides access to popular instant messaging services (including AIM, Yahoo!, and Windows Live) for fast, on-the-go conversations. Additionally, this phone also includes support for accessing personal email from POP3 and IMAP4 accounts. This handset includes built-in T9 predictive text entry technology, which makes it easier to enter words and text.

Other features include:

• VGA digital camera (640 x 480 pixels) for still photos with 4x digital zoom
• Organizer tools: alarm, calendar, memo book, clock, world time, currency converter, calculator
• MP3 and 64-chord polyphonic ringtones plus vibrate mode
• Digital audio player compatible with MP3 files
• Downloadable games
• Speakerphone

Vital Statistics
The Samsung A177 weighs 3.09 ounces and measures 4.29 x 2.32 x 0.47 inches. Its 800 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 240 hours of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies.

Wireless Phone: 
Easy-to-use messaging phone with full QWERTY keyboard–includes $15 airtime credit with AT&T’s GoPhone service, Pay for just the minutes you use with no annual contract–easy refill via Internet or prepaid cards, VGA camera for still photos; Bluetooth for handsfree devices; personal organizer tools; access to popular instant messaging services, Up to 5 hours of talk time, up to 240 hours (10 days) of standby time, What’s in the Box: handset, battery, charger, quick reference guide, user manual

Company: Samsung 

(2009-04-30)

List Price: $99.99
Amazon Price: $99.99

A sleek messaging phone with a full touchscreen display, the Samsung Rogue for Verizon Wireless is also complemented with a horizontal slide-out, four-row QWERTY keyboard for an optimized messaging experience. It also includes threaded messaging capabilities so you can follow your conversations as well as one-touch access to social networking sites including Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube and Photobucket.

The 3.1–inch widescreen touch-enabled display gives you an enhanced viewing experience for watching videos, taking and sharing pictures, or connecting to your favorite social networking sites.

See a schematic of all the Rogue’s controls.

This mobile multimedia powerhouse is compatible with the V Cast Music with Rhapsody service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via the fast Verizon Wireless 3G EV-DO data network, and the V CAST Video on Demand service that enables you to watch full-length TV shows plus news, sports, weather and live entertainment video clips. You’ll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. And with the optional Visual Voice Mail service, you’ll be able to quickly and easily scroll through your messages and pick the ones you want to listen to. See more details on optional Verizon Wireless services below.

The Rogue also features innovative speech capabilities powered by Nuance that allow you to launch and control a variety of applications and services with simple voice commands as well as dictate text messages. You’ll enjoy full HTML Web browsing capabilities with the brilliantly colorful 3.1-inch touchscreen display. Other features include a 3-megapixel camera with video capture capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, microSD memory expansion to 16 GB, full range of messaging options including email and instant messaging, bi-lingual interface (English and Spanish), and up to 4.7 hours of talk time.

Key Features

• Fast 3G connectivity thanks to the reliable Verizon Wireless EV–DO, Rev A network
• GPS navigation capabilities via VZ Navigator service as well as Chaperone service for keeping track of your kids
• 3.1-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with horizontal slide-out, four-row QWERTY keypad (Learn more)
• Widget tool bar with one–touch access to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and YouTube
• Customizable touch interface
• 3-megapixel camera with video capture capabilities with flash and video capture and on-device editing capabilities (Learn more)
• Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity with stereo music streaming (A2DP) capabilities as well as hands-free headsets and car kits (Learn more)
• Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 16 GB
• Digital audio player enables you to create and manage playlists right on the phone; compatible with MP3, WMA and unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats
• Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
• Full messaging capabilities including SMS, MMS, Mobile IM, Mobile Email and Corporate Email
• File viewer can view Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint and Adobe PDF documents stored on a memory card
• Pre-loaded games including NEED FOR SPEED Undercover, Resident Evil: Degeneration, and Tetris and Dice
• Organizer tools include calendar with scheduler, note pad, alarm clock, world clock, calculator and stop watch
• Advanced speech recognition with dictation and voice commands including Voice Dial, Digit Dial Readout, Menu Readout, and Text Message Readout
• Full HTML Web browsing capability
• Media Center-capable for downloadable games, ringtones, wallpapers, and more

See a larger image of the open QWERTY keyboard.

Vital Statistics
The Samsung Rogue weighs 4.94 ounces and measures 4.29 x 2.17 x 0.65 inches. Its 960 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.7 hours of talk time, and up to 300 hours (12.5 days) of standby time. It runs on the CDMA 800/1900 frequencies as well as EV–DO, Rev A 3G frequencies.

Verizon Wireless Services

Social Networking Made Easy with the Samsung Rogue

The Rogue’s accelerometer automatically switches screen orientation depending on how you hold the phone.

Offering more function, more style, more muscle, the Samsung Rogue has a 3.1-inch ultra-brilliant, highly responsive touchscreen with 480 x 800-pixel resolution (WVGA) and a 262K color depth. The innovative AMOLED (active matrix organic light-emitting diode) screen reproduces sharper and brighter colors with better battery consumption. The screen also features an accelerometer that automatically changes the orientation from portrait to landscape as well as sensors for proximity (when you put the phone to your ear) and luminance (to gauge how bright it needs to be when first turned on).

The front face of the phone offers a minimalist approach to controls, with send/end keys and a single navigation button. A four-row full QWERTY keyboard slides out from the left side of the phone, enabling easier typing for longer messages.

You’ll enjoy full HTML Web browsing capabilities as well as one-touch access to social networking sites via shortcut widgets–including Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube and Photobucket.

The phone has an internal 768 MB of flash memory that’s augmented by 256 MB of RAM, and it’s expandable via optional microSD/microSDHC (High Capacity) memory cards up to 16 GB in size. The internal phonebook can store up to 1000 contacts with multiple numbers per entry as well as support for picture and ringer ID. Other calling features include an accelerator tab for quick contact searching, embedded ringtones, vibrating alerts (with silent mode), speed dialing capabilities.

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On-the-Go Photos and Videos

The 3-megapixel camera enables you to shoot both still images and capture video clips wherever you roam. You can choose from one of eight resolution options (2048 x 1536, 1920 x 1080, 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 720, 1024 x 768, 640 x 480, 800 x 480, 320 x 240 pixels) as well as get closer to the action with up to a 10x digital zoom (available depending on resolution selection). Other features include an integrated flash, dedicated camera key, multi-shot capabilities (panorama, mosaic and frame), multiple color effects, and a self-timer. The phone also includes internal editors for both still photos and videos.

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Wireless Freedom with Bluetooth

Technical Specifications

Perfect for power texters, the sleekly redesigned LG enV3 for Verizon Wireless looks like a nicely compact candybar-style phone with standard alpha-numeric keypad and 1.5-inch display on its face. However, it has a hinged side that opens up to reveal a full QWERTY keyboard and additional 2.6-inch screen–perfect for all your on-the-go text messaging and email needs. Other improvements over the previous enV2 model include a 3-megapixel camera/camcorder, MicroSD memory expansion to 16 GB (from the previous 8 GB maximum), and a longer battery life with up to 5.45 hours of talk time.

It’s compatible with Verizon’s V Cast Music Service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via Verizon’s fast EV-DO data network. You’ll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. Other features include a multi-format digital audio player, Bluetooth for both handsfree devices and stereo music streaming, HTML web browsing capabilities, access to personal email and instant messaging, Visual Voicemail, and a bilingual interface.

Nicely compact, the LG enV3 offers widely spaced external keys designed for easy dialing.

Verizon Wireless Service
With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you’ll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.) The V Cast Music service enables you to download songs instantly to your phone, or purchase music through your PC and transfer the files to your phone. If purchased from your phone, you’ll receive two copies of the song: a Windows Media Audio Pro Plus format at 64Kbps stereo is sent to your phone, and a Windows Media Audio 9 format at 160Kbps stereo is sent to your account in the V CAST Music online store for downloading to your PC. V Cast Music offers nearly 2 million songs, with more being added all the time.

In addition to the V Cast Music service, this phone is also compatible with the Verizon Wireless V CAST Music with Rhapsody, which enables you to access this exclusive digital music service for RealNetworks and for MTV Networks. V CAST Music with Rhapsody delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers. In addition, customers who purchase music over-the-air are able to download the master copy of the songs or albums to their PCs free of digital rights management (DRM) software that restricts how and where music can be played.

The V Cast Video service enables you to stream or download video clips to your phone from a variety of news, entertainment, sports, and weather channels, including CNN, ABC News, E!, CBS Sports, The Weather Channel, and VH1.

With this GPS-enabled phone, you’ll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps. And the Chaperone service lets you easily locate your loved ones from your Verizon Wireless phone or PC in real time. After defining a zone, such as an area designating a school or summer camp, you’ll be sent an alert via text message when the Chaperone handset enters or leaves the zone.

Getting on the Internet is easy using the Verizon Wireless Mobile Web 2.0 package, which allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. The Verizon Wireless Media Center wireless download service is also fully compatible with this phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Media Center service.

Flipping open the env3 reveals an easy-to-use QWERTY keyboard that makes texting and emailing a snap.

With Visual Voice Mail, you can delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.

With Mobile Broadband Connect (subscription required), you can use your smartphone as a modem for your notebook when you connect the two using a USB cable–or open a Bluetooth connection–enabling you to access the Internet or your company intranet. The tethered modem capability is ideal when you’re traveling and need to use your notebook to check email, access corporate networks, or download large files like presentations and reports. And with Mobile Broadband Connect, you won’t have to buy an extra PC Card or other devices.

Phone Features
Easily pocketable, the LG enV3 has a candybar-style face with a 1.5-inch LCD screen complemented by large, widely spaced keys for easy dialing, a dedicated contacts button, 5-way navigation, and send/end buttons. Flipping open the enV3 reveals the full QWERTY keyboard and a large 2.6-inch LCD (10 percent larger than the previous model) with a 320 x 240-pixel resolution and 262K colors. Dialing function buttons are also duplicated on the internal touchpad.

The phone has a small internal memory and offers memory expansion up to 16 GB using optional MicroSD memory cards. The enV3’s built-in address book can store up to 1000 contacts, and each entry can store 5 numbers, 2 email addresses, and a picture ID. The phone comes with multiple unique polyphonic ringtones, and it has vibrate and silent modes when you need to keep things quiet. The phone lets you match pictures with callers to identify them, and the enV3’s voice recognition software supports voice commands from any user, not just a pre-programmed user’s voice.

Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone provides the latest version of Bluetooth connectivity–version 2.1 + EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), which makes pairing with a headset as well as other Bluetooth devices a snap. And with the embedded A2DP Bluetooth profile, you can stream your music to a pair of Bluetooth stereo headphones or other compatible devices. 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 3-megapixel camera can snap still photos in five resolutions (2048 x 1536 (default), 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960, 640 x 480, 320 x 240 pixels), and it also features brightness and white balance settings, multiple shutter sounds and color effects, and a self-timer. It also includes a multi-shot mode with a Smile Shot feature that automatically takes a picture when a smile is detected and a Panorama feature that automatically takes 3 pictures in sequence as you move from left to right. The phone can also capture video clips for as long as you have available memory.

The enV3 has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging, too, with support for sending and receiving text, picture, and video messages as well as mobile instant messaging (IM). There’s also a complete e-mail client on the device for POP- and IMAP-based accounts. And of course, the QWERTY keyboard makes it a snap to type your messages.

Other features include:

• Music player compatible with MP3, WMA, and AAC/AAC+ formats; create and manage playlists on the phone and sync from your PC
• Bilingual Interface: English/Espanol
• Airplane Mode
• Personal Organizer: Calendar with Scheduler, Note Pad
• Tools: Alarm Clock, World Clock, Calculator with Converter, StopWatch
• Voice Commands
• Speakerphone
• Embedded Ring Tones, Vibrating Alert & Silent
• 2.5mm Headset Jack
• In Case of Emergency Contacts
• TTY/TDD Support
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M4
• Bluetooth version 2.1 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), BPP (basic printing profile for text, email), DUN (dial-up networking), FTP (file transfer), HID (support for mice or joysticks), OPP (object push for business cards, calendar items, and pictures), PBA (transfer contacts), SPP (serial port profile)

Vital Statistics
The LG enV3 weighs 3.77 ounces and measures 4.11 x 2.13 x 0.65 inches. Its lithium-polymer battery is rated at up to 5.45 hours of talk time, and up to 460 hours (19+ days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/1900 CDMA/EV-DO frequencies.

Wireless Phone: 
Sleek, redesigned clamshell phone in maroon opens to reveal QWERTY keyboard and large 2.6-inch screen, Access V Cast Music (with Rhapsody) and Video servicse via fast EV-DO data network; GPS-enabled for turn-by-turn directions; Visual Voice Mail, 3-megapixel camera/camcorder; Bluetooth stereo music; MicroSD expansion to 16 GB; access to personal email and instant messaging, Up to 4.45 hours of talk time, up to 460 hours (19+ days) of standby time, What’s in the Box: handset, battery, charger, quick reference guide, user manual

Company: LGIC 

(2008-05-06)

List Price: $399.99
Amazon Price: $24.99

The next-generation Samsung Alias 2 for Verizon Wireless retains the original’s uniquely innovative dual-flip form factor with full QWERTY keyboard, but now the keyboard utilizes E Ink technology–the same found in today’s most popular e-book readers. With the E Ink-powered keyboard, the keys can transform from vertical to horizontal depending on your orientation as well as switch from numeric keypad to full keyboard depending on the application in use. Other upgrades include a 2-megapixel camera/camcorder and Bluetooth stereo music streaming.

The next generation Samsung Alias 2 dual-hinge messaging phone with the convenience of an E Ink keypad/QWERTY keyboard that transforms depending on function (see all keyboard layouts).

It’s compatible with Verizon’s V Cast Music Service, which enables you to purchase songs through your phone and download them via Verizon’s fast EV-DO data network. You’ll also stay on course thanks to the VZ Navigator GPS turn-by-turn direction service. Other features include MicroSD memory expansion (up to 16 GB), RemoSync capabilities for corporate email and calendar synchronization, Visual Voicemail, access to personal email and instant messaging, personal organizer tools, and up to 5 hours of talk time.

Verizon Wireless Service
With support for the EV-DO high-speed data standard, you’ll enjoy fast access to the Internet and Verizon Wireless multimedia services (additional charges applicable), with average download speeds ranging from 400 to 700 Kbps and peak rates up to 2 Mbps. (Learn more about where EV-DO coverage is offered.) The V Cast Music service enables you to download songs instantly to your phone, or purchase music through your PC and transfer the files to your phone. If purchased from your phone, you’ll receive two copies of the song: a Windows Media Audio Pro Plus format at 64Kbps stereo is sent to your phone, and a Windows Media Audio 9 format at 160Kbps stereo is sent to your account in the V CAST Music online store for downloading to your PC. V Cast Music offers nearly 2 million songs, with more being added all the time.

In addition to the V Cast Music service, this phone is also compatible with the Verizon Wireless V CAST Music with Rhapsody, which enables you to access this exclusive digital music service for RealNetworks and for MTV Networks. V CAST Music with Rhapsody delivers unlimited monthly access to music on up to three Rhapsody-compatible mobile phones and players and online on multiple PCs and Web browsers. In addition, customers who purchase music over-the-air are able to download the master copy of the songs or albums to their PCs free of digital rights management (DRM) software that restricts how and where music can be played.

Other features include Bluetooth stereo music streaming, a 2-megapixel camera, and MicroSD memory expansion.

Supports RemoSync, so customers can synchronize corporate e-mail, contacts and calendars from their office PCs.

With this GPS-enabled phone, you’ll be able to access the Verizon Wireless VZ Navigator service (additional charges applicable) for voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions, heads-up alerts, local search of nearly 14 million points of interest in the US (such as landmarks, restaurants and ATMs), and detailed color maps. And the Chaperone service lets you easily locate your loved ones from your Verizon Wireless phone or PC in real time. After defining a zone, such as an area designating a school or summer camp, you’ll be sent an alert via text message when the Chaperone handset enters or leaves the zone.

Getting on the Internet is easy using the Verizon Wireless Mobile Web 2.0 package, which allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. The Verizon Wireless Media Center wireless download service is also fully compatible with this phone. This pay-per-download service features application downloads, games and productivity tools. You can also personalize your handset with ringtone downloads using the Media Center service.

With Visual Voice Mail, you can delete, reply and forward voice mail messages without having to listen to prior messages or voice instructions. Visual Voice Mail is the ideal tool for the busy mobile professional who may need to prioritize which messages he or she listens to first. Features include on-screen access to voice mail message status, save up to 40 messages for 40 days (or archive permanently), create up to 10 different caller ID-based greetings, and reply via call back, text or even voice mail.

Verizon’s Wireless Sync always-on email service (subscription required), you can stay connected and get the job done while away from the office–without a delay and in a secure environment. Email is delivered to your device in real time across the National Enhanced Services Rate & Coverage Area, and you get the ability to forward large attachments via email as well as access both your personal and corporate emails on one device. Wireless Sync offers strong security with AES encryption (Advanced Encryption Standard) technology so that unauthorized parties cannot access or alter application data transmitted over wireless networks.

Phone Features
The Samsung Alias 2 has the same dual—hinge design of the original Alias, but the Alias 2 adds a touch of magic–a Magic Key keypad using E Ink technology that can transform the keys depending on your current usage. For example, in phone mode you’ll see a standard alpha-numeric keypad, but when you switch to texting mode the keys will automatically change into a full, four-row QWERTY keyboard. The E Ink technology is the same type of technology used in today’s most popular electronic book readers. In addition to its continuous transformation based on your usage, E Ink delivers a paper-like contrast ratio and a low power consumption.

The phone has an internal 2.6-inch LCD screen with a 240 x 320-pixel resolution and support for up to 262K colors, and it’s complemented by an external 1.3-inch screen (128 x 128 pixels, 65K colors) that displays current time (with Samsung’s distinctive new digital clock) as well as incoming calls. The front of the clamshell face also includes music playback controls. The phone has a user-accessible internal memory of approximately 100 MB that can be expanded via optional MicroSD memory cards (up to 16 GB in size). The internal phonebook can store up to 1000 contacts with each entry able to store up to five phone numbers, two email addresses, a street address and notes as well as the ability to pair a contact with a photo ID. The phone also displays the last 90 incoming/outgoing/missed calls, provides one-/two-/three-touch dialing, and offers a bilingual interface (English and Spanish).

Handsfree communication is easy thanks to the integrated speakerphone. This phone also provides Bluetooth wireless connectivity (version 2.0), and includes profiles for 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 offers multiple resolution options (1600×1200, 1280×960, 640×480, 320×240, 160×120 pixels) as well as up to a 10x digital zoom (depending on the resolution adjustment). Other features include your choice of three quality settings, white balance and brightness controls, multi-shot mode (Series, Divided, Panorama), shutter sound selection, and multiple color effects. It can also capture video clips, capped at 30 seconds for sending via messaging for running for as long as you have available memory. The phone also includes a dedicated camera/video key for quick shots while on the go.

The Alias 2 has all the bases covered when it comes to messaging, too, with support for sending and receiving text, picture, and video messages as well as mobile instant messaging (IM). There’s also a complete e-mail client on the device for POP- and IMAP-based accounts. And of course, the QWERTY keyboard makes it a snap to type your messages.

This phone also offers compatibility with the RemoSync service–a corporate email contacts and calendar solution that provides secure and easy access to your company’s Microsoft Exchange Server, with enterprise-class security and IT remote administration features. You’ll be able to read, compose and send email, as well as access and manage Outlook contacts, your corporate directory and calendar.

Other features include:

• Digital audio player with PC sync and in-phone playlist management capabilities; compatibility with MP3, WMA, unprotected AAC/AAC+ formats
• Personal Organizer: Calendar with Scheduler, Note Pad
• Tools: Alarm Clock, World Clock, Calculator with Converter, Stop Watch
• Voice Commands: Voice Dial, Menu Readout, Digit Dial Readout, Text Message Readout, & Call Announcement
• Bilingual User Interface: English/Español
• Embedded ringtones, vibrating alert and silent
• 2.5mm headset jack
• Flight mode turns off cellular connectivity while enabling you to play music, watch videos and more
• Hearing Aid Compatibility = M4

Vital Statistics
The Samsung Alias 2 weighs 4.34 ounces and measures 4.01 x 2.04 x 0.67 inches. Its 880 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours of talk time, and up to 336 hours (14 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/1900 CDMA/EV-DO frequencies.

Wireless Phone: 
Unique flip phone with dual-hinge form factor with innovative, transforming E Ink keypad/QWERTY keyboard, Access V Cast Music (with Rhapsody) and Video servicse via fast EV-DO data network; GPS-enabled for turn-by-turn directions; Visual Voice Mail, 2-megapixel camera/camcorder; Bluetooth stereo music; MicroSD expansion (to 16 GB); access to personal and corporate email; instant messaging, Up to 5 hours of talk time, up to 33 hours (14 days) of standby time, What’s in the Box: handset, battery, charger, quick start guide, user manual

Company: Samsung 

(2008-04-15)

List Price: $399.99
Amazon Price: $0.01