I happen to be a cell phone junkie and can't seem to get enough of this technology. I always wanted to compare a GSM phone to the CDMA handset I currently use through Verizon Wireless in the NY metro area. I decided to subscribe as a prepaid customer since I didn't want to obligate myself for an entire year. I've only had the phone for a couple of days but I figure I might as well write a preliminary epinion which I can always modify later.

If you live in an area where GSM coverage is offered you owe it to yourself to try this service and this phone. Though GSM as not even close to being seamless as AT & T is or Verizon (and Cingular too), if you live in a large metro area, chances are this service is being offered.

Voice quality on the handset is very good but you have to be careful of how you place the handset against your ear. If you move it an inch or so, it sounds as if the caller is fading. That's NOT the case, it's just that the earpiece is small and MUST be positioned over your ear canal for optimal listening. A nice feature of the phone is voice dialing. With parameters set, you can open the flip, wait for a beep and SAY the name of the person you want to call. This feature is independent of the network you are on. It is simply a feature of the handset which I find really cool. I've tested it dozens of times and have not had a situation where it didn't recognize my voice command. The talk and standby times are pretty good even with the slim lithium ion battery. Another nice feature is the ability to get an estimate of standby time and talk time remaining. Other features are similar to other handsets and executed in a clever fashion. We'll have to see how it stands up over time. The flip opens with a little button on the side and it does seem a bit flimsy but time will tell. Overall, a great phone with unique features at a decent price.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 129.00