Posted by Smartphone Review on August 29, 2010
T Mobile myTouch Slide Android Phone Black T Mobile
Updating the original myTouch 3G with a roomy slide-out QWERTY keyboard and the latest version of the Android operating system (version 2.1), the T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide mobile phone also offers a variety of unique new features to help you connect more easily with friends and family. Enabled for T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, the myTouch 3G Slide offers fast data delivery and an enhanced Web-browsing experience that lets you connect quickly to social networking sites.
The sleek, lightweight T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide with 3.4-inch touchscreen display and slide-out full QWERTY keyboard. |
Similar in design to the original, the myTouch 3G Slide has a 3.4-inch touchscreen display and a five-pane home screen (with the option to increase to seven panes) that provides plenty of screen real estate for apps and widgets. In addition to the virtual keyboard, the myTouch 3G Slide also includes a slide-out full QWERTY keyboard that makes typing longer messages a breeze.
With integrated Google technology, the myTouch 3G Slide brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, Gtalk, YouTube, Picasa, and contacts/calendar synchronization. The myTouch 3G Slide also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you’ll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.
The myTouch 3G Slide offers GPS location services for turn-by-turn directions using Google Maps and Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and business networks as well as hotspots while on the go. Other features include a fast 600 Mhz processor, 5-megapixel camera/camcorder with LED flash, included 8 GB microSD memory card (with expansion support up to 32 GB), Bluetooth for both hands-free communication and stereo music streaming, a digital audio player, and up to 4 hours of talk time.
T-Mobile WOW Family Features
With the myTouch 3G Slide, T-Mobile introduces an innovative software suite of WOW Family Features, which includes the following:
- Faves Gallery presents up to 20 of your favorite people and the different ways to communicate with them–calls, texts, e-mail, instant messaging, social networking updates–in a dedicated application accessible through a soft button and an easy-to-use widget complete with photos, contact information and one-touch ability to respond.
All of your Faves get special status on your myTouch 3G Slide; anytime they communicate with you or update their social network you get a notification in the notification pane. Even if you’re not using your phone, a custom green light lets you know you’ve got a communication waiting from one of your Faves. And you can respond directly from the Faves Gallery, without launching e-mail or other applications, so you connect more quickly and more often with the important people in your life.
Powered by Android OS 2.1, you can customize your myTouch 3G Slide with thousands of apps available via the Android Market (see larger image). |
The myTouch 3G Slide also includes a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash on the back as well as video capture capabilities. |
- myModes helps you draw the line between work and home by creating different themes with home screen apps, widgets and wallpapers to empower people in the different roles they play each day. You can set myModes to switch at a designated time, by location, or manually with the option to create and store up to 10 customized modes.
Want to forget about work on the weekend? No need to hide your work phone or switch to another device; just put away your work tools, like e-mail and your calendar by switching modes, and bring forward all the things you love to do on Saturday.
- With Genius Button voice commands (powered by Dragon Dictation from Nuance Communications), pressing the easy-to-access button on the front of the myTouch 3G Slide allows you to access a variety of voice commands. Press the button, speak the command, and control such features as making a call, composing and sending texts and e-mails, and searching the Web or your surroundings. It will even read text messages aloud, and lets you dictate responses naturally as if you were speaking directly to a person.
Key Features
- Powered by the Android operating system with deep integration of Google services and access to thousands of apps to customize your phone via the Android Market.
- Fast 3G connectivity via T-Mobile’s HSDPA/UMTS network. (1700/2100 MHz bands, UMTS/HSDPA; see more about T-Mobile’s 3G service below)
- Quad-band GSM phone for good global voice connectivity. (850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands)
- 3.2-inch touchscreen display (480 x 320 pixels, 262K colors) with customizable, intuitive home screen.
- Slide-out full QWERTY keyboard with built-in familiar layout lets you type messages easily without searching for the letter you want. Also includes virtual on-screen keyboard.
- Built-in GPS with turn-by-turn directions provided by Google Maps and other third-party apps (for real-time directions). With Google Maps, you can instantly view maps and satellite imagery, as well as find local business. And Google Maps Street View enables you to explore cities at street-level virtually while on the go.
- 5-megapixel camera with video capture capabilities and LED flash
- 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.
- Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
- 8 GB pre-loaded microSD memory card with support for optional cards up to 32 GB.
- Multi-format digital audio player
- YouTube app for streaming video over 3G and Wi-Fi connections.
- Rich HTML e-mail application seamlessly syncs your e-mail, calendar and contacts from Gmail as well as most other POP3 or IMAP e-mail services. The Gmail application provides features such as conversation view, spam filtering, search, and labels that Gmail users enjoy on their computer while offering new features such as integration with the phone’s contact list. And it multitasks, so you can read a Web page while also downloading your e-mail in the background.
- Full HTML Web browser enables you to view more pages and enjoy better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone.
- Instant messaging support for Google Talk, as well as AOL, Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Live Messenger. It also supports advanced text messaging features, enabling you to easily flag, delete or move groups of messages and keep track of group conversations through threaded text messaging.
- Text (SMS) and picture/video (MMS) messaging
- Google Calendar app syncs with the Web-based version, so any event that you add to your phone will show up on the Web-based Google Calendar (and vice versa).
- Organizer tools including calendar, calculator, and tasks.
- Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off.
Vital Statistics
The myTouch 3G Slide weighs 5.9 ounces and measures 2.3 x 4.5 x 0.6 inches. Its 1300 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4 hours of talk time, and up to 144 hours (6 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies, as well as T-Mobile’s 3G network (1700/2100 MHz).
What’s in the Box
myTouch 3G Slide handset, rechargeable battery, charger, USB cable, 8 GB microSD memory card, wired stereo headphones, quick start guide
High-Speed Data Connectivity via T-Mobile’s 3G Network
In addition to its quad-band GSM connectivity, this phone is also compatible with T-Mobile’s UMTS/HSDPA 3G network, which operates on the 1700/2100 MHz AWS spectrum. This phone is designed to automatically connect to the best available network (3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE) to provide faster data speeds when accessing the Web.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you’ll continue to receive service on the via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and e-mail on the go.
While this phone is optimized for use with T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, many of its functions will also work well on the moderate-speed EDGE network. If you plan to access the Internet extensively on your phone, 3G network coverage may serve you best.
Activities that work well on EDGE or 3G networks:
- E-mail, instant messaging, and texting
- Downloading ringtones, CallerTunes, wallpaper, light data files
- Sending photographs via e-mail or picture messaging
Activities that work best on a 3G network:
- Viewing content-heavy websites (lots of images or videos playing)
- Viewing YouTube and other video files (they will play on EDGE, but require loading time)
- Uploading large files (photos, videos, presentations) to sharing websites
- Downloading large files from an e-mail or a website
T-Mobile’s 3G network is currently available in more than 220 cities nationwide and covers more than 160 million people.
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Killer phone, weak battery.
My first smart phone and reasonably easy to figure out, a simply amazing phone.
Battery struggles to make it through a day! Hopefully will improve after pairing back unneeded apps…
Very, very nice.
4 Stars my thoughts on this phone.
I had the Behold and I can tell you that compared to the myTouch Slide, the Behold might as well be a paperweight. RE your comment about the lack of Snapdragon, you honestly won’t even notice it. There are moments (however, VERY small) that you will wait for things to show up but this is normally due to the strength of your network or wifi….
Concerning battery life, I’ve been using it almost constantly so I can’t give you any real thoughts on this until my consumption slows down. Then, I’ll try to update you on the battery life under normal circumstances. I can already tell I’ll be using it MUCH more than the Behold.
I haven’t noticed any glitches–though I wouldn’t doubt that they exist. Speaker volume seems great, both on speakerphone and otherwise. Signal strength depends on area so that is a N/A field. It does have flash but hulu doesn’t allow videos on android–version 2.2 should fix this but it isn’t certain yet. GPS with voice navigation is by far a favorite of mine–used with the Genius button, navigating while driving is quite simple.
Now for the not so good things, in my humble opinion–the Genius button is great but sometimes isn’t exact when sending texts…Speak clearly and you’ll have a better chance. The touchscreen is way more sensitive compared to the Behold so there is a learning curve there. Also, the Genius button has a connection time out for some reason. I can’t think of any others at the moment, but I’ll be sure to update you should I come across any more.
All in all, compared to the Behold, this phone will blow your mind. Android has literally thousands of apps and, unlike the Behold, they install painlessly.
Good tips at [...]
4 Stars A solid 3rd gen choice for T-Mobile G1 veterans.
T-Mobile must have contracted a refresher for the G1 with HTC, and it’s a weird one for sure. Armed with an ARM11 600Mhz processor, it’s an upgrade over the 1st gen G1 processor in terms of speed and RAM, but the keyboard and optical trackpad are steps backwards from the G1, as is the microUSB connector away from the more-common miniUSB.
In searching for a replacement for my twice-bricked G1, I evaluated the Garminfone and MyTouch Slide. The conclusion I’m fast approaching is that the new Droid2 from Motorola looks like my long-term choice, but that means switching networks.
Within the context of T-Mobile Android phones with keyboards, this one is very good. Outside of that context, it hassome dubious design choices leaving me flat.
To begin, it has a good camera with a flash, it has Android 2.1, and an OTA update just hit it. Terrific. It has some built-in apps and makes use of HTC’s Sense UI for an improved feel over stock 2.1 and 1.6. However, you will look in vain to change the desktop wallpaper directly; you’ll either alter the “mood” as provided by T-Mobile, or you’ll pick you wallpaper with an app that supports making it your desktop (Astro File Manager being your best bet for this and all Android tasks).
The keyboard lets you avoid fat-fingered input at every turn. If Swype and Graffiti and even Dragon Dictation fail you, the keyboard surely bails you out? Well, maybe, if you can decipher the bizarre, non-standard silk-screened letters and numbers. It’s a four-row, not the five-row of a G1, but it’s spaced a little more and has shift/function keys on both sides. However, the top row has numerals the same size and color of the letters, so you aren’t reading QWERTYUIOP, you’re reading Q1W2E3R4T5Y6U7I8O9P0, which screws you up when you are looking for a zero or “O”. Like I said, bizarre. A second color for alt-keys or a smaller font would have helped immensely. You get used to it over time, but why do I need to get used to bad silkscreening? This should be fixed in later versions.
The Genius button is fun. You press it, and the Dragon Dictation listens and tries to figure out what you want. Call your wife, find pizza near your location, open an app, whatever. Over time the Genius button is likely to expand functionality, but for now, it is limited by its Dragon engine and its lookup ability. The more I try it, though, the more I like it. This may be a killer feature if the API is readily accessible.
In all, this is better than the Garminfone and original G1. I would love to keep the G1 keyboard and physical trackball but that’s not going to happen; I would love to keep the thin form of the Garminfone but I need a keyboard. Compromises aside, this is a solid 3rd gen Android device and if you can get it close to zero on contract, you’re coming out way ahead. T-Mobile is very good about OTA updates, so you can plan on 2.2 very soon as well.
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5 Stars Best Phone Ever
I think this phone is fantastic. I think it is way better than an iphone. I owned an iphone for years, and I think it was a bit like a monopoly. This phone is so much more impressive.
Thanks Android!
5 Stars Great Phone
This is a great phone. I have had it for a couple weeks and I love it. People say the price is too high but I got it for free off Amazon. If you’re thinking about getting a phone, go with this one because the keyboard was what the deal breaker was for me because all other touchscreen android phones are exactly the same to this minus the physical keyboard!
Buy/More Info
Posted by Smartphone Review on August 28, 2010
HTC HD2 Windows Phone T Mobile
Offering the largest touchscreen on a smartphone in the U.S., the Windows Mobile-powered HTC HD2 for T-Mobile is also built for speed. It features a blazing-fast 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and runs on T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network–delivering an enhanced Web-browsing experience that you’ll appreciate on the high-resolution 4.3-inch capacitive touch display. In addition to the HD2’s array of multimedia applications, you’ll also have access to a complete entertainment package with special pre-installed apps and two full movies–Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
Enjoy the full Web and brilliant multimedia on the extra-large, high-resolution 4.3-inch multitouch display. |
With pre-loaded apps from BLOCKBUSTER, Barnes & Noble, and MobiTV, you’ll have access to millions of eBooks, movies, television programs on the HTC HD2. |
The Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system includes Internet Explorer Mobile Web browser for full HTML viewing of the Internet and a customizable Today screen that enables you to access the features and apps you use the most. You’ll stay easily connected to your business and personal data on the go with support for a wide variety of e-mail accounts as well as the ability to edit Microsoft Office documents. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services, you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps respectively.
It also includes HTC Sense, a user interface overlay from HTC that makes it easy for you to create an individualized mobile experience tailored specifically to your needs.
In addition to 3G connectivity, the HTC HD2 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. It also offers integrated GPS with access to turn-by-turn navigation from TeleNav GPS Navigator (trial version included). Other features include a pre-installed 16 GB microSD card, 5-megapixel autofocus camera with dual LED flash and video capture capabilities, and up to 6 hours of talk time.
Entertainment On The Go
The HTC HD2 includes the following pre-installed applications and content:
- Paramount Pictures’ films Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen come pre-loaded on the included 16 GB memory card, and they’re optimized for viewing on the HD2’s high-resolution screen.
- Barnes & Noble eReader puts the world’s largest eBookstore in your hand with access to more than a million eBooks, newspapers, magazines and your Barnes & Noble digital library everywhere you go. Enjoy reading on the largest screen available for eReader smartphone software.
- BLOCKBUSTER On Demand enables you to discover and download the latest movie rentals on the go. Blockbuster’s first-ever video download application on a smartphone allows you to buy a movie on one device and watch on another connected device through Blockbuster’s library.
- MobiTV mobile offers access to live and on-demand TV on your phone, including favorite channels such as MTV, NBC, COMEDY CENTRAL, ESPN and more are available. Plus, when you subscribe to MobiTV, your first 30 days of service are free.
- Gogo Inflight Internet service offers an added bonus: up to six months of free in-flight Wi-Fi access on their device, with Internet access on 2,500 daily flights in the continental U.S. and growing.
Key Features
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- 4.3-inch multitouch screen with bright, lifelike 480 x 800 resolution. Zoom in and out of documents, web pages, pictures or emails with just a simple pinch. Type up responses faster and more accurately on the large onscreen keyboard. The display also automatically adjusts to the light level in your surroundings and turns off to prevent false screen touches during a call.
- 1 GHz Snapdragon processor speeds up everything–from playing games to watching shows to opening files from work.
- Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system provides enhancements such as a touch-friendly user interface and improved browser with Flash support. Content and applications are just a fingertip away on the redesigned Start Menu and Internet Explorer Mobile supports the rich experiences you find on Web pages viewed on your PC. (Learn more)
- Customizable home screen with your apps and interests right on top.
- Fast 3G connectivity via T-Mobile’s HSDPA/UMTS network. (1700/2100 MHz bands, UMTS/HSDPA; see more about T-Mobile’s 3G service below)
- Quad-band GSM phone for good global voice connectivity. (850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands)
- Built-in GPS for location-based services and navigation with a trial version of TeleNav GPS Navigator, which provides real-time location on maps, turn-by-turn driving directions, and more (monthly subscription required after trial expires).
- 5-megapixel autofocus camera/camcorder with dual LED flash and digital zoom
- 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 (16 GB card included).
- Windows Media Player for multi-format audio and video playback
- Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture and IM instant messaging (via popular services including AOL, Yahoo!, and MSN).
- Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
- 3.5mm headset jack
Vital Statistics
The HTC HD2 weighs 5.54 ounces and measures 4.74 x 2.64 x 0.43 inches. Its 1230 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6 hours of talk time, and up to 480 hours (20 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies, as well as T-Mobile’s 3G network (1700/2100 MHz).
What’s in the Box
HTC HD2 handset, rechargeable battery, charger, 16 GB microSD card, wired stereo hands-free headset, USB cable, quick start guide, user manual
- High-speed data connectivity via T-Mobile’s 3G network: In addition to its quad-band GSM connectivity, this phone is also compatible with T-Mobile’s UMTS/HSDPA 3G network, which operates on the 1700/2100 MHz AWS spectrum. This phone is designed to automatically connect to the best available network (3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE) to provide faster data speeds when accessing the Web.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you’ll continue to receive service on the via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and e-mail on the go.
While this phone is optimized for use with T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, many of its functions will also work well on the moderate-speed EDGE network. If you plan to access the Internet extensively on your phone, 3G network coverage may serve you best.
Activities that work well on EDGE or 3G networks:
- E-mail, instant messaging, and texting
- Downloading ringtones, CallerTunes, wallpaper, light data files
- Sending photographs via e-mail or picture messaging
Activities that work best on a 3G network:
- Viewing content-heavy websites (lots of images or videos playing)
- Viewing YouTube and other video files (they will play on EDGE, but require loading time)
- Uploading large files (photos, videos, presentations) to sharing websites
- Downloading large files from an e-mail or a website
T-Mobile’s 3G network is currently available in more than 220 cities nationwide and covers more than 160 million people.
Learn More
Windows Mobile 6.5 combines a variety of enhancements to help you stay connected and manage your busy life. From a more intuitive gesture-driven interface (you can tap, drag, click, and pan) to a revamped Start screen, access and navigation are fast and easy. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps. With Windows Mobile 6.5, you can see alerts even if you’re on a call or have password-protected your phone. You’ll see new e-mail and text messages, missed calls and voice-mail notifications, and the date, time, and next calendar appointment. Other enhancements include:
- The lock screen displays new messages and appointments without requiring that you enter a PIN when the phone is locked.
- You can easily customize your Today screen to display and access new e-mails, text messages, and other high-level information with a simple tap.
- The Start screen provides ultimate access and control: quickly browse and open programs; easily customize program order (move the most used apps to the top) and add your favorite web sites.
- Internet Explorer Mobile provides a full, rich web viewing experience similar to the experience on your PC.
- The improved Windows Media Player Mobile lets you view full-screen video and provides audio and video playback enhancements, like pausing a song or video when you receive a call.
- Use the My Phone Service to sync your phone and data to the web so it’s backed up and accessible.
- Express your sense of style with designer-theme-based phones (like the new Halo design) or create your own custom themes.
- MSN Widgets provide real-time information on weather and stocks.
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User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Love the phone but not the OS
The only bad thing about this phone is that its a crappy ass windows phone. I recently hacked it to put android on it and i hafta say i am quietly impressed XD. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PHONE FOR ANY 1.
3 Stars nice hardware bad os
this phone looks great. it has great features and the screen size is great. as far as windows mobile 6.5 goes. it isnt for me. htc tried with their sense ui by adding cool effects and their htc widgets but it isnt enough. the wm apps are pricey and useless and the phone itself gets boring after awhile. if ur new to smart phones i recommend but if your coming from an iphone or an android device dont get this. but there is a way to flash android on this phone and running android on this phone is amazing.
1 Star no bad but not great
download anything you can to make this phone better after you buy it out the box it sucks i feel like this was the evo prototype evo is 100 times better but i hate sprint windows mobile is the worse software ever the harsware on this phone is great and could do so much better with something other then windows mobile no dont even think windows mobile 7 will be better never buy a windows phone i want to break my phone over the the heads of the people who made it
5 Stars Love my HD2.
PROS:
I actually got this phone when it first came out. I put a little work into it and wow. I can now play my old Playstation games on my phone. There is a Playstation emulator, FPSCE, that after a bit of work, runs some games perfectly, and some well. I usually play Diablo and Gran Tourismo 2, a couple of my favorite games.
The camera is 5mp. That’s not as much as the 8mp that will be on the new EVO (I believe) but I think it takes great pictures. The flash/ led lights are nice.
Ah, music, I like Nitrogen. It works great. Love the button that turns the screen off. Also, I can play my mp3’s and switch over to playing playstation.
I love the standard headphone jack. Great sound with my headphones. Usually need to turn the volume down a bit.
Ah, love watching mp4’s. Great screen.
Basically there is software there you can find where you can turn your playstation games, dvd’s, cd’s, etc. into enjoyable media for your phone. This is what Iphone can’t touch. I had an HTC Touch, the one from Eagle Eye, and used to play Gameboy games and SNES games but it was a bit slow.
My wife got an I Touch for Christmas… Spent like 60 bucks on games and got bored with it after a couple of weeks. App stores are nice but the money racks up quickly. I’d much prefer to play my old games and such.
Cons:
I was having trouble getting signal, but Tmobile reset my connection and it’s working fine again. They suggest turning the phone off once a day for about 5 seconds. They also went over how to manually select a network.
That’s all I can think of off the top of my head… oh, good battery life, and an external battery is a great add on.
2 Stars I really wanted to love this phone, but Windows ruined it for me!
I switched from Blackberry pearl to HD2 which I was really excited about, but Windows ruined it in many ways.
P.S: I am not a mac fan-boy, in fact I hate apple products. All I own is a PC and a laptop running Windows 7, so this review is FAR FROM BIASED.
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Con’s:
1> This phone has so much potential but windows seems to have locked lot of things like the home screen tabs, Registry settings, no Mp3 ringtones, videos on Opera browser, Task Manager options and so on. The problem is its not impossible, you can just play with registry and problem solved. But you have to download some applications to edit registry, and know what you are doing. Why not just give it to us, rather than making us all figure out?
2> You upgrade the device and you lose all the data and settings, I mean ALL. That’s lame Microsoft, can’t you just add a backup feature to your ActiveSync junk?
3> Its not available for Win mobile 7 upgrade, which could have been amazing because I have heard really good reviews about it. But HD2 doesn’t meet the “hardware requirements” for Win mobile 7.
4> You have to use both the hands for using this phone efficiently. Or have a large hand. Ex. The browser has address bar way on the top but navigation is way on the bottom, makes it difficult to use it with one hand.
5> I have to click so many different places just to get my address book up. Which unfortunately I cant even add in my home screen tabs.
6> THERE IS NO EXIT BUTTON FOR ANYTHING. If I click back or “X” on the top right corner it doesn’t mean quit in Windows mobile 6.5. It mean minimize. I have to go to Task Manager every time to quit applications. Which drains my battery in case I forgot.
7> The hardware is so powerful but Windows media player will not play most of the videos by default. I had to download some other freeware program, which got unistalled when I did an upgrade.
8> When your battery is almost dead, it will shutdown the phone all together, so no access to contacts no access to time, alarm, message or directions. It doesn’t let you run on really bare minimum required resources.
9> I can’t see the timing of a call placed or missed or received. I can’t even see the clock when I am setting an alarm, I have to go back to main screen to check the time again.
10> The sound quality is OK, maybe its just me because my pearl(8200) has a speaker and a WOOFER, which is way better than HD2’s speaker.
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Pro’s:
Its really COOL. It looks very smart.
The camera is super awesome. I have not owned a cellphone with this great of a camera.
I like the feel of it, not heavy.
After you get over the coolness part it all comes down to usability, where it severely lacks(at least compared to a blackberry).
In conclusion, it could have been really better if they would have TESTED the OS before just shipping it out with this amazing phone. I am really dissapointed in HTC’s decision to go with Windows mobile 6.5. When windows 7 was just around the corner( they could have struck a deal with Microsoft to support HD2 on the contract).
Buy/More Info
Posted by Smartphone Review on August 19, 2010
HTC HD2 Windows Phone T Mobile
Offering the largest touchscreen on a smartphone in the U.S., the Windows Mobile-powered HTC HD2 for T-Mobile is also built for speed. It features a blazing-fast 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and runs on T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network–delivering an enhanced Web-browsing experience that you’ll appreciate on the high-resolution 4.3-inch capacitive touch display. In addition to the HD2’s array of multimedia applications, you’ll also have access to a complete entertainment package with special pre-installed apps and two full movies–Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
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Enjoy the full Web and brilliant multimedia on the extra-large, high-resolution 4.3-inch multitouch display. |
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With pre-loaded apps from BLOCKBUSTER, Barnes & Noble, and MobiTV, you’ll have access to millions of eBooks, movies, television programs on the HTC HD2. |
The Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system includes Internet Explorer Mobile Web browser for full HTML viewing of the Internet and a customizable Today screen that enables you to access the features and apps you use the most. You’ll stay easily connected to your business and personal data on the go with support for a wide variety of e-mail accounts as well as the ability to edit Microsoft Office documents. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services, you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps respectively.
It also includes HTC Sense, a user interface overlay from HTC that makes it easy for you to create an individualized mobile experience tailored specifically to your needs.
In addition to 3G connectivity, the HTC HD2 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. It also offers integrated GPS with access to turn-by-turn navigation from TeleNav GPS Navigator (trial version included). Other features include a pre-installed 16 GB microSD card, 5-megapixel autofocus camera with dual LED flash and video capture capabilities, and up to 6 hours of talk time.
Entertainment On The Go
The HTC HD2 includes the following pre-installed applications and content:
- Paramount Pictures’ films Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen come pre-loaded on the included 16 GB memory card, and they’re optimized for viewing on the HD2’s high-resolution screen.
- Barnes & Noble eReader puts the world’s largest eBookstore in your hand with access to more than a million eBooks, newspapers, magazines and your Barnes & Noble digital library everywhere you go. Enjoy reading on the largest screen available for eReader smartphone software.
- BLOCKBUSTER On Demand enables you to discover and download the latest movie rentals on the go. Blockbuster’s first-ever video download application on a smartphone allows you to buy a movie on one device and watch on another connected device through Blockbuster’s library.
- MobiTV mobile offers access to live and on-demand TV on your phone, including favorite channels such as MTV, NBC, COMEDY CENTRAL, ESPN and more are available. Plus, when you subscribe to MobiTV, your first 30 days of service are free.
- Gogo Inflight Internet service offers an added bonus: up to six months of free in-flight Wi-Fi access on their device, with Internet access on 2,500 daily flights in the continental U.S. and growing.
Key Features
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- 4.3-inch multitouch screen with bright, lifelike 480 x 800 resolution. Zoom in and out of documents, web pages, pictures or emails with just a simple pinch. Type up responses faster and more accurately on the large onscreen keyboard. The display also automatically adjusts to the light level in your surroundings and turns off to prevent false screen touches during a call.
- 1 GHz Snapdragon processor speeds up everything–from playing games to watching shows to opening files from work.
- Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system provides enhancements such as a touch-friendly user interface and improved browser with Flash support. Content and applications are just a fingertip away on the redesigned Start Menu and Internet Explorer Mobile supports the rich experiences you find on Web pages viewed on your PC. (Learn more)
- Customizable home screen with your apps and interests right on top.
- Fast 3G connectivity via T-Mobile’s HSDPA/UMTS network. (1700/2100 MHz bands, UMTS/HSDPA; see more about T-Mobile’s 3G service below)
- Quad-band GSM phone for good global voice connectivity. (850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands)
- Built-in GPS for location-based services and navigation with a trial version of TeleNav GPS Navigator, which provides real-time location on maps, turn-by-turn driving directions, and more (monthly subscription required after trial expires).
- 5-megapixel autofocus camera/camcorder with dual LED flash and digital zoom
- 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 (16 GB card included).
- Windows Media Player for multi-format audio and video playback
- Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture and IM instant messaging (via popular services including AOL, Yahoo!, and MSN).
- Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
- 3.5mm headset jack
Vital Statistics
The HTC HD2 weighs 5.54 ounces and measures 4.74 x 2.64 x 0.43 inches. Its 1230 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6 hours of talk time, and up to 480 hours (20 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies, as well as T-Mobile’s 3G network (1700/2100 MHz).
What’s in the Box
HTC HD2 handset, rechargeable battery, charger, 16 GB microSD card, wired stereo hands-free headset, USB cable, quick start guide, user manual
- High-speed data connectivity via T-Mobile’s 3G network: In addition to its quad-band GSM connectivity, this phone is also compatible with T-Mobile’s UMTS/HSDPA 3G network, which operates on the 1700/2100 MHz AWS spectrum. This phone is designed to automatically connect to the best available network (3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE) to provide faster data speeds when accessing the Web.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you’ll continue to receive service on the via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and e-mail on the go.
While this phone is optimized for use with T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, many of its functions will also work well on the moderate-speed EDGE network. If you plan to access the Internet extensively on your phone, 3G network coverage may serve you best.
Activities that work well on EDGE or 3G networks:
- E-mail, instant messaging, and texting
- Downloading ringtones, CallerTunes, wallpaper, light data files
- Sending photographs via e-mail or picture messaging
Activities that work best on a 3G network:
- Viewing content-heavy websites (lots of images or videos playing)
- Viewing YouTube and other video files (they will play on EDGE, but require loading time)
- Uploading large files (photos, videos, presentations) to sharing websites
- Downloading large files from an e-mail or a website
T-Mobile’s 3G network is currently available in more than 220 cities nationwide and covers more than 160 million people.
Learn More
Windows Mobile 6.5 combines a variety of enhancements to help you stay connected and manage your busy life. From a more intuitive gesture-driven interface (you can tap, drag, click, and pan) to a revamped Start screen, access and navigation are fast and easy. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps. With Windows Mobile 6.5, you can see alerts even if you’re on a call or have password-protected your phone. You’ll see new e-mail and text messages, missed calls and voice-mail notifications, and the date, time, and next calendar appointment. Other enhancements include:
- The lock screen displays new messages and appointments without requiring that you enter a PIN when the phone is locked.
- You can easily customize your Today screen to display and access new e-mails, text messages, and other high-level information with a simple tap.
- The Start screen provides ultimate access and control: quickly browse and open programs; easily customize program order (move the most used apps to the top) and add your favorite web sites.
- Internet Explorer Mobile provides a full, rich web viewing experience similar to the experience on your PC.
- The improved Windows Media Player Mobile lets you view full-screen video and provides audio and video playback enhancements, like pausing a song or video when you receive a call.
- Use the My Phone Service to sync your phone and data to the web so it’s backed up and accessible.
- Express your sense of style with designer-theme-based phones (like the new Halo design) or create your own custom themes.
- MSN Widgets provide real-time information on weather and stocks.
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User Ratings and Reviews
3 Stars HTC HD2 - Disappointing
I thought that this phone would have everything that I wanted and it did - except for the operating system. The Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5 system looks good on the surface, but has some significant shortcomings. Battery life was poor. Downloaded apps did not always work the way that they are supposed to. During the five days that I had the phone, it froze up three times. Things that should be easy became difficult. For example, I uploaded about 150 pictures from my previous phone and placed these in two separate folders. My intention was to use the outstanding screen to display some of the photos at a family get-together. I discovered that there is no way to sort the pictures and I couldn’t set up the pictures in the order that I wanted to present them. The slideshow feature brought up pictures from both folders. I only wanted to use one folder for this presentation and was unable control the source. The HD2 has been returned and I swear that I will never again purchase a phone that uses Windows Mobile.
5 Stars Love my HD2.
PROS:
I actually got this phone when it first came out. I put a little work into it and wow. I can now play my old Playstation games on my phone. There is a Playstation emulator, FPSCE, that after a bit of work, runs some games perfectly, and some well. I usually play Diablo and Gran Tourismo 2, a couple of my favorite games.
The camera is 5mp. That’s not as much as the 8mp that will be on the new EVO (I believe) but I think it takes great pictures. The flash/ led lights are nice.
Ah, music, I like Nitrogen. It works great. Love the button that turns the screen off. Also, I can play my mp3’s and switch over to playing playstation.
I love the standard headphone jack. Great sound with my headphones. Usually need to turn the volume down a bit.
Ah, love watching mp4’s. Great screen.
Basically there is software there you can find where you can turn your playstation games, dvd’s, cd’s, etc. into enjoyable media for your phone. This is what Iphone can’t touch. I had an HTC Touch, the one from Eagle Eye, and used to play Gameboy games and SNES games but it was a bit slow.
My wife got an I Touch for Christmas… Spent like 60 bucks on games and got bored with it after a couple of weeks. App stores are nice but the money racks up quickly. I’d much prefer to play my old games and such.
Cons:
I was having trouble getting signal, but Tmobile reset my connection and it’s working fine again. They suggest turning the phone off once a day for about 5 seconds. They also went over how to manually select a network.
That’s all I can think of off the top of my head… oh, good battery life, and an external battery is a great add on.
5 Stars Read this before rating 1 star please
I read through some of the one star reviews for this phone, here as well as other places. Many people will only leave feed back when they have had a negative experience and rarely when its positive. Hopefully after reading this you will explore your phone a little more before attempting to blame the OS or the phone.
For those experiencing lock ups, freezes, or errors. T-Mobile has released a ROM update that can be found on their site that contains numerous bug fixes. If you feel like maybe T-Mobile is to blame then take your IMEI number to HTC’s website and grab the ROM update from them. Be aware though, doing this will require you to manually set up data connections or you will be unable to send or receive text messages or connect to the web.
The camera actually takes very nice pictures. If they appear grainy there can be a couple of ways to resolve this. First, clean the lense with a soft cloth and remove any debris. If this does not resolve it then launch the camera application and go to the settings. Change the White Balance to “Auto” by tapping on it until it says Auto. Tap Advanced and make sure the resolution is set to 5 Megapixels. Tap to the second page of the Advanced Settings and make sure the Quality is set to Super Fine. Doing these few things may help you get better pictures, I know the pictures I have taken with my HD2 have rivaled the quality of my Canon point and shoot camera.
The keyboard, yes, if coming from a Touch Pro 2 or other hard keyboard phone you will experience a learning curve. Its basically the same thing as the iPhone in normal form. I have used smartphones for years and this was my first 100% touch screen phone. If you have big fingers this may not be a good phone for you if you text and email a lot from the phone. Anyone that has an iPhone will tell you, when the keyboard is up, the screen is cut off. Thats the compromise to having a full touch screen phone that is not as thick as a Touch Pro 2 which has a keyboard slide out. Swype is a great keyboard if you are a normal talker. I am into drag racing so swype didnt really do a good job for me. You cant swype out “I picked up a GT 6776 turbo built by Limit Engineering” easily.
If you just picked up the phone, dont bother setting up email accounts before letting the phone boot up. This is a problem that seems to have come from Windows XP. When you are on the screen to set up your Gmail account the phone has not yet turned on its data so connecting is impossible. Boot the phone all the way, look for the 3G T-Mobile (or Edge) and then set up your accounts.
Google Maps app, if you are not in 3G loading the map will take a while. Turn off satellite view to help the maps load quicker. This would be a problem even for an iPhone or a Droid phone, if the bandwidth is not there, it will take a while. This is not a Windows thing.
Facebook, the facebook app that comes standard on the phone is BASIC at best. Go to the Windows Market Place and download the latest from there. Its free and will allow for more interaction beyond just seeing someones profile. Also, this will not just update on the fly as it seems to be looking out for your data usage. When you load the app, there is a Refresh button at the bottom for Home. Tap that and it will then refresh the Home page. For any other page, if there is not a Refresh at the bottom, it will be in the Menu. You can refresh all pages to get the latest content.
Speaking of Market Place, installing apps is fairly simple. One problem with some apps from the Microsoft store is the install screen will appear behind the application making it appear the install has locked up. Exit the store to expose the dialog behind and finish the install. Also there are much better places to get great content for your phone. One app that I recommend is the OMarket app which is similar to the Microsoft Market Place but offers a lot more, for a lot less.
Accessing the SD card in the phone. There are two ways you can do this. 1. Use the cable supplied with the charger as a USB cable on your computer. When you connect the phone choose “Connect as disk drive” and do not shut the screen off. If you have AutoPlay turned on you should then get a dialog asking what you want to do. If not, open My Computer (or Computer on Vista or 7) and look for the “Multimedia Sync by doubleTwist” drive. This is your phones SD card and opening this allows you to browse the contents or move stuff on or off the card. T-Mobile did not do anything to prevent you from doing this and syncing with Windows Media Player is just another way of doing things. 2. Remove the MicroSD card from the phone, place it in an SD Card adapter and place it in an SDHC card reader. If you do not have an SDHC card reader then your computer will not see the card. One note: When the phone is connected to the PC you will not be able to browse the storage card from the phone. If you need this, just eject the phone from the PC and then explore the storage card.
Setting up MP3’s to use for ring tones I will admit can be a little cumbersome. The easiest way to do it is to connect the phone to your PC through ActiveSync and explore the device, not the storage card. Go to My Documents\My Ringtones and put the mp3’s you wish to use there. An alternate way to do it is to load them on the storage card first. Locate an mp3 you would like to use, tap and hold your finger on the file. This is sort of like right clicking and a context menu will appear with a choice that says “Use as Ringtone”. Tapping that will automatically copy the mp3 to the “My Ringtones” directory and assign it as your ring tone. You will then see it show up in the list of selectable ring tones for your contacts.
If you want to back up the phone there are several ways to do this well. You can use Microsoft My Phone which is on the phone already. I would suggest getting the latest from the Microsoft Market Place (its free) and you can back up your stuff that way. You can also get a PIM Backup tool (there are free ones) but I wouldnt recommend this unless you are comfortable doing so. The apps I have used are simple enough and can back up EVERYTHING minus apps. Basically, I can take another Windows phone, run a restore on it and I will have all my text messages, email messages, speed dials, call history, contacts, calendar, etc.. I wouldnt recommend doing anything through Windows Live beyond checking your Hotmail account.
Viewing movies on the phone, of course its a big screen so why not enjoy it? The best format is MP4, for the most part, if you have an MP4 video file it will play nicely on the phone. The phone will also play WMV and MPG files and with the DviX player will also play Dvix AVI files but the playback may not be as good as it is with MP4. I have over a dozen full length movies on my phone and they play without any problems.
I hope this review is helpful for you. If you have other questions I would suggest going to the T-Mobile forums on their site and asking the question there. You may be pointed to the XDA site as well which is a great place to get apps, games and other cool stuff for your Windows phone but you need to be comfortable with installing and configuring the device before you start downloading customizing appplications. My not-so-technical sister has one of these phones as well. She had adapted nicely to it and has tons of apps, more on hers than mine. She has only asked me one question ever about the phone, and it turned out to be her SIM card that was the problem.
5 Stars Now with Froyo!
Soon as people realize you can port a good stable version of Android FrYo onto this beauty this thing is gonna sell through the roof!
1 Star Probably I just got a glitchy one….
…but my experience with this phone was terrible. I had it over a long weekend, and in my experience, the more I used it the less it did. I have since packaged the phone up to be returned, and in the discussion with the helpful T-Mobile rep, we decided that the phone probably just had something wrong with it. Your mileage may vary with this phone, is all I’m saying.
Well, not all I’m saying. But that’s the bottom line.
For starters, to get the phone to play an mp3 ringtone took the installation of an app from the Windows Mobile app store. And even then it wasn’t possible to customize the ringtone, it would just play from a music file. In the interest of full disclosure, it took me two days to get any music on the phone, because apparently one cannot drag and drop onto the micro SD card (included. 16 gb. Way to go, tmo). Finally someone (who was really tired of listening to me rant) suggested I just sync it with my Windows media player, and that worked. That was also how I had to get my pictures on there. It was not intuitive. Before I did that (which was not a short process), I also signed up for a Windows Live account (which will only sync stuff that’s already on your phone, which I think is an important distinction), and some other type of online account, which also wouldn’t feed back into the phone.
I got the phone for its ability to play and download videos. I thought the Blockbuster app would be great. In my opinion, the blockbuster app was not great. I rented a movie (Sherlock Holmes. $3.99 to rent for 24 hours, $18.99 to buy), and it wouldn’t play. It would start to play, and it would play for a few minutes, and then it would begin to make this hideous buzzing sound, like an angry mutant bee. Then the movie would freeze and quit playing. If I was really lucky, the phone would just restart itself. Twice I wasn’t that lucky and had to remove the battery.
And that brings me to my real issue with this phone: I couldn’t make it quit restarting. I would be sitting at my desk, and the damn thing would kick off and kick back on, apparently independent of external stimuli. It would literally be sitting on the desk, nobody touching it, battery not low (miserable battery life, but since I’m having the same problem with a myTouch 3g, I think that must be a problem endemic to HTC), no apps running….and it would reboot. Constantly. In the middle of phone calls. Halfway through typing a text message (which reminds me: I don’t mind on-screen keyboards, but I thought this one was bad. It tries to autocorrect every word, which gets tedious, but then when you actually find the word you were looking for and click it, it doesn’t automatically put a space after the word. So you go on typing your text, then realize the dictionary is looking for some bastard combination of the word you just wrote and the new word you thought you were writing.). Listening to music. Which is not a great feature in any phone, but this one is my actual phone. It’s the phone I use to be on call, it’s my home phone. And half the time I couldn’t make a call out on it because it was rebooting. Then it deleted my Twitter account, which nobody can explain yet. Do you know what a pain it is to rebuild a twitter account because your PHONE wiped it out? (Which reminds me: I had to pay to download a twitter app, because on the third day I had the phone, the native twitter app wouldn’t load my twitter feed. It kept saying that my user name and password were incorrect. I actually logged in to a computer to check on the actual twitter site, which let me in with no problems. Fine. So I downloaded an app. After 24 hours with that app, I started getting the same message: “Invalid user name or password”. And then the account went away.) I digress. Not only would the phone reboot itself, but half the time it would apparently forget what it was doing, and just hang up. Completely stall out, and then I had to yank the battery and try it again. Sometimes it was a three or four battery yank process.
My other complaints are minor compared to that: the Windows Mobile app store sucks, and it’s expensive. There are way too few apps that cost way too much money. I realize I have been badly spoiled by the Android market. Just try to download something from the Amazon MP3 store. It works fine for one song, but I’m still on the phone with Amazon CS trying to get a credit back for an album that wouldn’t download (David Garrett: Rock Symphonies. Check it out. I highly recommend it.). Amazon keeps telling you to download the Amazon Music Store file, but Windows Mobile doesn’t support it. I have no idea where my album ended up. Possibly Minsk.
Shazam? $4.99 on the Windows App store. Free everywhere else on the planet. I didn’t mind paying for it, I just don’t see why WinApp is the only app store charging for it. Maybe they’re not, maybe this is a new shazam business model, but I didn’t pay for the app either in the apple store or the android store, and didn’t really appreciate having to pay for it here.
Facebook? Native client is great, and it looks really pretty on that great big screen….if all you want to do is read it. Twice I actually got a menu to pop up and ask if I wanted to comment, then it told me my user name and password were invalid to leave comments. On my mom’s page. It seems unlikely that she blocked my comments. I could be wrong, last week was a bad week for everyone, but it just seems unlikely.
Maybe I’m not smart enough to use this smart phone. I get the feeling that owning this one is like having a really high maintenance girlfriend with paradoxically low self-esteem. It needs a constant stream of your attention, and constantly needs you to buy things for it to get even the basic services back out of it. (And by “basic services”, I mean things like conversation, and actually getting it to acknowledge you’re in the room. Not whatever you were thinking.)
I’m sending it back, no harm no foul. I will be more cautious in the future about buying a Windows Mobile product. Although I will concede that this seems to be a poor example of the breed. May the Force be with you.
Buy/More Info
Posted by Smartphone Review on
T Mobile myTouch Slide Android Phone Black T Mobile
Updating the original myTouch 3G with a roomy slide-out QWERTY keyboard and the latest version of the Android operating system (version 2.1), the T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide mobile phone also offers a variety of unique new features to help you connect more easily with friends and family. Enabled for T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, the myTouch 3G Slide offers fast data delivery and an enhanced Web-browsing experience that lets you connect quickly to social networking sites.
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The sleek, lightweight T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide with 3.4-inch touchscreen display and slide-out full QWERTY keyboard. |
Similar in design to the original, the myTouch 3G Slide has a 3.4-inch touchscreen display and a five-pane home screen (with the option to increase to seven panes) that provides plenty of screen real estate for apps and widgets. In addition to the virtual keyboard, the myTouch 3G Slide also includes a slide-out full QWERTY keyboard that makes typing longer messages a breeze.
With integrated Google technology, the myTouch 3G Slide brings one-touch access to the popular Google mobile services millions use every day, including Google Search by voice, Google Maps with Street View, Gtalk, YouTube, Picasa, and contacts/calendar synchronization. The myTouch 3G Slide also provides easy access to both personal and corporate e-mail, calendars, and contacts supported by Exchange Server and Gmail. And through Android Market, you’ll get access to thousands of useful applications, widgets and fun games to download and install on your phone, with many more apps being added every day.
The myTouch 3G Slide offers GPS location services for turn-by-turn directions using Google Maps and Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and business networks as well as hotspots while on the go. Other features include a fast 600 Mhz processor, 5-megapixel camera/camcorder with LED flash, included 8 GB microSD memory card (with expansion support up to 32 GB), Bluetooth for both hands-free communication and stereo music streaming, a digital audio player, and up to 4 hours of talk time.
T-Mobile WOW Family Features
With the myTouch 3G Slide, T-Mobile introduces an innovative software suite of WOW Family Features, which includes the following:
- Faves Gallery presents up to 20 of your favorite people and the different ways to communicate with them–calls, texts, e-mail, instant messaging, social networking updates–in a dedicated application accessible through a soft button and an easy-to-use widget complete with photos, contact information and one-touch ability to respond.
All of your Faves get special status on your myTouch 3G Slide; anytime they communicate with you or update their social network you get a notification in the notification pane. Even if you’re not using your phone, a custom green light lets you know you’ve got a communication waiting from one of your Faves. And you can respond directly from the Faves Gallery, without launching e-mail or other applications, so you connect more quickly and more often with the important people in your life.
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Powered by Android OS 2.1, you can customize your myTouch 3G Slide with thousands of apps available via the Android Market (see larger image). |
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The myTouch 3G Slide also includes a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash on the back as well as video capture capabilities. |
- myModes helps you draw the line between work and home by creating different themes with home screen apps, widgets and wallpapers to empower people in the different roles they play each day. You can set myModes to switch at a designated time, by location, or manually with the option to create and store up to 10 customized modes.
Want to forget about work on the weekend? No need to hide your work phone or switch to another device; just put away your work tools, like e-mail and your calendar by switching modes, and bring forward all the things you love to do on Saturday.
- With Genius Button voice commands (powered by Dragon Dictation from Nuance Communications), pressing the easy-to-access button on the front of the myTouch 3G Slide allows you to access a variety of voice commands. Press the button, speak the command, and control such features as making a call, composing and sending texts and e-mails, and searching the Web or your surroundings. It will even read text messages aloud, and lets you dictate responses naturally as if you were speaking directly to a person.
Key Features
- Powered by the Android operating system with deep integration of Google services and access to thousands of apps to customize your phone via the Android Market.
- Fast 3G connectivity via T-Mobile’s HSDPA/UMTS network. (1700/2100 MHz bands, UMTS/HSDPA; see more about T-Mobile’s 3G service below)
- Quad-band GSM phone for good global voice connectivity. (850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands)
- 3.2-inch touchscreen display (480 x 320 pixels, 262K colors) with customizable, intuitive home screen.
- Slide-out full QWERTY keyboard with built-in familiar layout lets you type messages easily without searching for the letter you want. Also includes virtual on-screen keyboard.
- Built-in GPS with turn-by-turn directions provided by Google Maps and other third-party apps (for real-time directions). With Google Maps, you can instantly view maps and satellite imagery, as well as find local business. And Google Maps Street View enables you to explore cities at street-level virtually while on the go.
- 5-megapixel camera with video capture capabilities and LED flash
- 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.
- Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
- 8 GB pre-loaded microSD memory card with support for optional cards up to 32 GB.
- Multi-format digital audio player
- YouTube app for streaming video over 3G and Wi-Fi connections.
- Rich HTML e-mail application seamlessly syncs your e-mail, calendar and contacts from Gmail as well as most other POP3 or IMAP e-mail services. The Gmail application provides features such as conversation view, spam filtering, search, and labels that Gmail users enjoy on their computer while offering new features such as integration with the phone’s contact list. And it multitasks, so you can read a Web page while also downloading your e-mail in the background.
- Full HTML Web browser enables you to view more pages and enjoy better Web content delivered efficiently to your phone.
- Instant messaging support for Google Talk, as well as AOL, Yahoo! Messenger and Windows Live Messenger. It also supports advanced text messaging features, enabling you to easily flag, delete or move groups of messages and keep track of group conversations through threaded text messaging.
- Text (SMS) and picture/video (MMS) messaging
- Google Calendar app syncs with the Web-based version, so any event that you add to your phone will show up on the Web-based Google Calendar (and vice versa).
- Organizer tools including calendar, calculator, and tasks.
- Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off.
Vital Statistics
The myTouch 3G Slide weighs 5.9 ounces and measures 2.3 x 4.5 x 0.6 inches. Its 1300 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4 hours of talk time, and up to 144 hours (6 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies, as well as T-Mobile’s 3G network (1700/2100 MHz).
What’s in the Box
myTouch 3G Slide handset, rechargeable battery, charger, USB cable, 8 GB microSD memory card, wired stereo headphones, quick start guide
High-Speed Data Connectivity via T-Mobile’s 3G Network
In addition to its quad-band GSM connectivity, this phone is also compatible with T-Mobile’s UMTS/HSDPA 3G network, which operates on the 1700/2100 MHz AWS spectrum. This phone is designed to automatically connect to the best available network (3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE) to provide faster data speeds when accessing the Web.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you’ll continue to receive service on the via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and e-mail on the go.
While this phone is optimized for use with T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, many of its functions will also work well on the moderate-speed EDGE network. If you plan to access the Internet extensively on your phone, 3G network coverage may serve you best.
Activities that work well on EDGE or 3G networks:
- E-mail, instant messaging, and texting
- Downloading ringtones, CallerTunes, wallpaper, light data files
- Sending photographs via e-mail or picture messaging
Activities that work best on a 3G network:
- Viewing content-heavy websites (lots of images or videos playing)
- Viewing YouTube and other video files (they will play on EDGE, but require loading time)
- Uploading large files (photos, videos, presentations) to sharing websites
- Downloading large files from an e-mail or a website
T-Mobile’s 3G network is currently available in more than 220 cities nationwide and covers more than 160 million people.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Close Again Android, but no Cigar!
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R3BWK5RRDW0MMO Close Again Android, but no Cigar!
For anyone who’s feeling the itch to jump to AT&T to get an iPhone, but cant see themselves on the nations second largest carrier - the alternative has always been an Android powered OS phone. T-Mobile started off getting all the Android exclusives, but for someone who cant seem to ditch their G1 for an all touch screen device - Your alternative has finally arrived.
Now, Android is not that prestigious anymore and the exclusivity FACTOR is completely gone at this point since some of their OS can now be found on Sprint & Verizon Wireless (Moto Droid, HTC Incredible, and HTC EVO 4G). However, for those faithful T-Mobile customers, the MyTouch 3G Slide delivers on many levels, but are unfortunately still hammered down by some minor OS issues.
The MyTouch 3G Slide is an excellent smart phone and the best part is the slide out qwerty keyboard. I am one of those people that just cant go all touch. The design of the device is great. Its sleek, sexy, and a total eye catcher. Everyone on the street keeps looking at me when I take out my phone to talk, text, or browse the web. Now I know how Paris Hilton feels. The form factor is great and despite what some haters are saying - Its actually not that bulky or big at all. I have the white model and truly believe its the best of the three colors that are currently available. The black is a bit dull and the red is the wrong red. They should have made the color merlot like the original MyTouch 3G.
This is a full featured phone and comes pack with tons of customization options from wallpapers, to different themes, apps, and tons more. The menu system is gorgeous and the colors really POP and is just visually pleasing to the eye. One of the other highlights of this device is the GENIUS button. It lets you search, text, or call someone by simply using ones voice. You get to sync your email accounts to the device as well, but I found adding email accounts to be so much simpler on a Blackberry then I did on this phone. Synchronization has to be turned on for emails to be received quicker, but it never arrives on the phone as fast as a Blackberry. With sync turned on - It only kills the battery life even quicker. The device is running the latest Android 2.1 OS with HTC’s sense UI built on top of the Android and it makes for a great combination. Plus, there isn’t much lag time when switching between screens or exiting out of certain apps, etc. Android phones are probably the closest thing to an iPhone, but it still lacks behind the competition in many areas. I find the Blackberry OS to be so much more customizable with different ringers for email or text alerts, etc. Something the Android cant do. I gave the phone four stars and its just slightly short of five stars due to the extremely poor battery life. I don’t know if its the Android OS, or Apps that still run in the background when one thinks that its OFF, but everyone that I know who has an Android phone always carries a spare UBS charger with them everywhere they go. Either the Android OS needs to be fixed or batteries need to get bigger, but if a smart phone cant last till the next morning before one arrives at work and gets a chance to start charging the device at their computer work station then its hard for me to recommend this as a full five star phone.
Pros
- Customizable interface to match your style and mood
- 3.4″ screen with Optical Trackpad
- Android 2.1 (Not 2.2 yet)
- 5MP camera/camcorder with flash
- A full QWERTY keyboard
- Great music and video player
- Android market (Feels a bit bootleg compared to the BB and iPhone)
- 3G and Wi-Fi
- 8GB Micro SD card included (It should have been 32GB)
- Good Call Quality
- GPS
- 5 home screens (Can be changed to 7)
- Swype Text input comes installed
- Genius FEature (Voice Commands)
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack (YAY! No more adaptors)
- Sleek, Sexy, form factor
- MyFaves (Nice feature and beautiful to look at)
- USB charger
- Awesome WEB BROWSER (Best one since the iPhone)
- Pinch to Zoom
Cons -
- Price is a bit of a turn off (Get a RadioShack Flyer cause T-Mobile matches prices)
- No phone case
- No separate wall charger (Only comes with UBS and wall connector) Cheap BASTARDS!
- Battery is far from perfect
- Bad Speaker phone
- 3G can get real spotty and switches between 3G and EDGE alot
- Landscape mood is a bit buggy at times
4 Stars A solid 3rd gen choice for T-Mobile G1 veterans.
T-Mobile must have contracted a refresher for the G1 with HTC, and it’s a weird one for sure. Armed with an ARM11 600Mhz processor, it’s an upgrade over the 1st gen G1 processor in terms of speed and RAM, but the keyboard and optical trackpad are steps backwards from the G1, as is the microUSB connector away from the more-common miniUSB.
In searching for a replacement for my twice-bricked G1, I evaluated the Garminfone and MyTouch Slide. The conclusion I’m fast approaching is that the new Droid2 from Motorola looks like my long-term choice, but that means switching networks.
Within the context of T-Mobile Android phones with keyboards, this one is very good. Outside of that context, it hassome dubious design choices leaving me flat.
To begin, it has a good camera with a flash, it has Android 2.1, and an OTA update just hit it. Terrific. It has some built-in apps and makes use of HTC’s Sense UI for an improved feel over stock 2.1 and 1.6. However, you will look in vain to change the desktop wallpaper directly; you’ll either alter the “mood” as provided by T-Mobile, or you’ll pick you wallpaper with an app that supports making it your desktop (Astro File Manager being your best bet for this and all Android tasks).
The keyboard lets you avoid fat-fingered input at every turn. If Swype and Graffiti and even Dragon Dictation fail you, the keyboard surely bails you out? Well, maybe, if you can decipher the bizarre, non-standard silk-screened letters and numbers. It’s a four-row, not the five-row of a G1, but it’s spaced a little more and has shift/function keys on both sides. However, the top row has numerals the same size and color of the letters, so you aren’t reading QWERTYUIOP, you’re reading Q1W2E3R4T5Y6U7I8O9P0, which screws you up when you are looking for a zero or “O”. Like I said, bizarre. A second color for alt-keys or a smaller font would have helped immensely. You get used to it over time, but why do I need to get used to bad silkscreening? This should be fixed in later versions.
The Genius button is fun. You press it, and the Dragon Dictation listens and tries to figure out what you want. Call your wife, find pizza near your location, open an app, whatever. Over time the Genius button is likely to expand functionality, but for now, it is limited by its Dragon engine and its lookup ability. The more I try it, though, the more I like it. This may be a killer feature if the API is readily accessible.
In all, this is better than the Garminfone and original G1. I would love to keep the G1 keyboard and physical trackball but that’s not going to happen; I would love to keep the thin form of the Garminfone but I need a keyboard. Compromises aside, this is a solid 3rd gen Android device and if you can get it close to zero on contract, you’re coming out way ahead. T-Mobile is very good about OTA updates, so you can plan on 2.2 very soon as well.
–#
5 Stars Great Phone
This is a great phone. I have had it for a couple weeks and I love it. People say the price is too high but I got it for free off Amazon. If you’re thinking about getting a phone, go with this one because the keyboard was what the deal breaker was for me because all other touchscreen android phones are exactly the same to this minus the physical keyboard!
5 Stars Killer phone, weak battery.
My first smart phone and reasonably easy to figure out, a simply amazing phone.
Battery struggles to make it through a day! Hopefully will improve after pairing back unneeded apps…
Very, very nice.
5 Stars Best Phone Ever
I think this phone is fantastic. I think it is way better than an iphone. I owned an iphone for years, and I think it was a bit like a monopoly. This phone is so much more impressive.
Thanks Android!
Buy/More Info
Posted by Smartphone Review on August 12, 2010
HTC HD2 Windows Phone T Mobile
Offering the largest touchscreen on a smartphone in the U.S., the Windows Mobile-powered HTC HD2 for T-Mobile is also built for speed. It features a blazing-fast 1 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and runs on T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network–delivering an enhanced Web-browsing experience that you’ll appreciate on the high-resolution 4.3-inch capacitive touch display. In addition to the HD2’s array of multimedia applications, you’ll also have access to a complete entertainment package with special pre-installed apps and two full movies–Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
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Enjoy the full Web and brilliant multimedia on the extra-large, high-resolution 4.3-inch multitouch display. |
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With pre-loaded apps from BLOCKBUSTER, Barnes & Noble, and MobiTV, you’ll have access to millions of eBooks, movies, television programs on the HTC HD2. |
The Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system includes Internet Explorer Mobile Web browser for full HTML viewing of the Internet and a customizable Today screen that enables you to access the features and apps you use the most. You’ll stay easily connected to your business and personal data on the go with support for a wide variety of e-mail accounts as well as the ability to edit Microsoft Office documents. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services, you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps respectively.
It also includes HTC Sense, a user interface overlay from HTC that makes it easy for you to create an individualized mobile experience tailored specifically to your needs.
In addition to 3G connectivity, the HTC HD2 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. It also offers integrated GPS with access to turn-by-turn navigation from TeleNav GPS Navigator (trial version included). Other features include a pre-installed 16 GB microSD card, 5-megapixel autofocus camera with dual LED flash and video capture capabilities, and up to 6 hours of talk time.
Entertainment On The Go
The HTC HD2 includes the following pre-installed applications and content:
- Paramount Pictures’ films Transformers and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen come pre-loaded on the included 16 GB memory card, and they’re optimized for viewing on the HD2’s high-resolution screen.
- Barnes & Noble eReader puts the world’s largest eBookstore in your hand with access to more than a million eBooks, newspapers, magazines and your Barnes & Noble digital library everywhere you go. Enjoy reading on the largest screen available for eReader smartphone software.
- BLOCKBUSTER On Demand enables you to discover and download the latest movie rentals on the go. Blockbuster’s first-ever video download application on a smartphone allows you to buy a movie on one device and watch on another connected device through Blockbuster’s library.
- MobiTV mobile offers access to live and on-demand TV on your phone, including favorite channels such as MTV, NBC, COMEDY CENTRAL, ESPN and more are available. Plus, when you subscribe to MobiTV, your first 30 days of service are free.
- Gogo Inflight Internet service offers an added bonus: up to six months of free in-flight Wi-Fi access on their device, with Internet access on 2,500 daily flights in the continental U.S. and growing.
Key Features
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- 4.3-inch multitouch screen with bright, lifelike 480 x 800 resolution. Zoom in and out of documents, web pages, pictures or emails with just a simple pinch. Type up responses faster and more accurately on the large onscreen keyboard. The display also automatically adjusts to the light level in your surroundings and turns off to prevent false screen touches during a call.
- 1 GHz Snapdragon processor speeds up everything–from playing games to watching shows to opening files from work.
- Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system provides enhancements such as a touch-friendly user interface and improved browser with Flash support. Content and applications are just a fingertip away on the redesigned Start Menu and Internet Explorer Mobile supports the rich experiences you find on Web pages viewed on your PC. (Learn more)
- Customizable home screen with your apps and interests right on top.
- Fast 3G connectivity via T-Mobile’s HSDPA/UMTS network. (1700/2100 MHz bands, UMTS/HSDPA; see more about T-Mobile’s 3G service below)
- Quad-band GSM phone for good global voice connectivity. (850/900/1800/1900 MHz bands)
- Built-in GPS for location-based services and navigation with a trial version of TeleNav GPS Navigator, which provides real-time location on maps, turn-by-turn driving directions, and more (monthly subscription required after trial expires).
- 5-megapixel autofocus camera/camcorder with dual LED flash and digital zoom
- 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 (16 GB card included).
- Windows Media Player for multi-format audio and video playback
- Full messaging capabilities including SMS text, MMS picture and IM instant messaging (via popular services including AOL, Yahoo!, and MSN).
- Airplane mode allows you to listen to music while the cellular connectivity is turned off
- 3.5mm headset jack
Vital Statistics
The HTC HD2 weighs 5.54 ounces and measures 4.74 x 2.64 x 0.43 inches. Its 1230 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 6 hours of talk time, and up to 480 hours (20 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies, as well as T-Mobile’s 3G network (1700/2100 MHz).
What’s in the Box
HTC HD2 handset, rechargeable battery, charger, 16 GB microSD card, wired stereo hands-free headset, USB cable, quick start guide, user manual
- High-speed data connectivity via T-Mobile’s 3G network: In addition to its quad-band GSM connectivity, this phone is also compatible with T-Mobile’s UMTS/HSDPA 3G network, which operates on the 1700/2100 MHz AWS spectrum. This phone is designed to automatically connect to the best available network (3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE) to provide faster data speeds when accessing the Web.
In areas where the 3G network is not available, you’ll continue to receive service on the via T-Mobile’s EDGE network (which stands for “Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution”). This high-speed, mobile data and Internet access technology is fast enough to support a wide range of advanced data services (with average data speeds between 75-135Kbps), including full picture and video messaging, high-speed color Internet access, and e-mail on the go.
While this phone is optimized for use with T-Mobile’s high-speed 3G network, many of its functions will also work well on the moderate-speed EDGE network. If you plan to access the Internet extensively on your phone, 3G network coverage may serve you best.
Activities that work well on EDGE or 3G networks:
- E-mail, instant messaging, and texting
- Downloading ringtones, CallerTunes, wallpaper, light data files
- Sending photographs via e-mail or picture messaging
Activities that work best on a 3G network:
- Viewing content-heavy websites (lots of images or videos playing)
- Viewing YouTube and other video files (they will play on EDGE, but require loading time)
- Uploading large files (photos, videos, presentations) to sharing websites
- Downloading large files from an e-mail or a website
T-Mobile’s 3G network is currently available in more than 220 cities nationwide and covers more than 160 million people.
Learn More
Windows Mobile 6.5 combines a variety of enhancements to help you stay connected and manage your busy life. From a more intuitive gesture-driven interface (you can tap, drag, click, and pan) to a revamped Start screen, access and navigation are fast and easy. And with the new Microsoft My Phone and Windows Marketplace for Mobile services you can easily back up your data to the web and download great apps. With Windows Mobile 6.5, you can see alerts even if you’re on a call or have password-protected your phone. You’ll see new e-mail and text messages, missed calls and voice-mail notifications, and the date, time, and next calendar appointment. Other enhancements include:
- The lock screen displays new messages and appointments without requiring that you enter a PIN when the phone is locked.
- You can easily customize your Today screen to display and access new e-mails, text messages, and other high-level information with a simple tap.
- The Start screen provides ultimate access and control: quickly browse and open programs; easily customize program order (move the most used apps to the top) and add your favorite web sites.
- Internet Explorer Mobile provides a full, rich web viewing experience similar to the experience on your PC.
- The improved Windows Media Player Mobile lets you view full-screen video and provides audio and video playback enhancements, like pausing a song or video when you receive a call.
- Use the My Phone Service to sync your phone and data to the web so it’s backed up and accessible.
- Express your sense of style with designer-theme-based phones (like the new Halo design) or create your own custom themes.
- MSN Widgets provide real-time information on weather and stocks.
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User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Love my HD2.
PROS:
I actually got this phone when it first came out. I put a little work into it and wow. I can now play my old Playstation games on my phone. There is a Playstation emulator, FPSCE, that after a bit of work, runs some games perfectly, and some well. I usually play Diablo and Gran Tourismo 2, a couple of my favorite games.
The camera is 5mp. That’s not as much as the 8mp that will be on the new EVO (I believe) but I think it takes great pictures. The flash/ led lights are nice.
Ah, music, I like Nitrogen. It works great. Love the button that turns the screen off. Also, I can play my mp3’s and switch over to playing playstation.
I love the standard headphone jack. Great sound with my headphones. Usually need to turn the volume down a bit.
Ah, love watching mp4’s. Great screen.
Basically there is software there you can find where you can turn your playstation games, dvd’s, cd’s, etc. into enjoyable media for your phone. This is what Iphone can’t touch. I had an HTC Touch, the one from Eagle Eye, and used to play Gameboy games and SNES games but it was a bit slow.
My wife got an I Touch for Christmas… Spent like 60 bucks on games and got bored with it after a couple of weeks. App stores are nice but the money racks up quickly. I’d much prefer to play my old games and such.
Cons:
I was having trouble getting signal, but Tmobile reset my connection and it’s working fine again. They suggest turning the phone off once a day for about 5 seconds. They also went over how to manually select a network.
That’s all I can think of off the top of my head… oh, good battery life, and an external battery is a great add on.
3 Stars HTC HD2 - Disappointing
I thought that this phone would have everything that I wanted and it did - except for the operating system. The Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5 system looks good on the surface, but has some significant shortcomings. Battery life was poor. Downloaded apps did not always work the way that they are supposed to. During the five days that I had the phone, it froze up three times. Things that should be easy became difficult. For example, I uploaded about 150 pictures from my previous phone and placed these in two separate folders. My intention was to use the outstanding screen to display some of the photos at a family get-together. I discovered that there is no way to sort the pictures and I couldn’t set up the pictures in the order that I wanted to present them. The slideshow feature brought up pictures from both folders. I only wanted to use one folder for this presentation and was unable control the source. The HD2 has been returned and I swear that I will never again purchase a phone that uses Windows Mobile.
5 Stars Now with Froyo!
Soon as people realize you can port a good stable version of Android FrYo onto this beauty this thing is gonna sell through the roof!
1 Star Probably I just got a glitchy one….
…but my experience with this phone was terrible. I had it over a long weekend, and in my experience, the more I used it the less it did. I have since packaged the phone up to be returned, and in the discussion with the helpful T-Mobile rep, we decided that the phone probably just had something wrong with it. Your mileage may vary with this phone, is all I’m saying.
Well, not all I’m saying. But that’s the bottom line.
For starters, to get the phone to play an mp3 ringtone took the installation of an app from the Windows Mobile app store. And even then it wasn’t possible to customize the ringtone, it would just play from a music file. In the interest of full disclosure, it took me two days to get any music on the phone, because apparently one cannot drag and drop onto the micro SD card (included. 16 gb. Way to go, tmo). Finally someone (who was really tired of listening to me rant) suggested I just sync it with my Windows media player, and that worked. That was also how I had to get my pictures on there. It was not intuitive. Before I did that (which was not a short process), I also signed up for a Windows Live account (which will only sync stuff that’s already on your phone, which I think is an important distinction), and some other type of online account, which also wouldn’t feed back into the phone.
I got the phone for its ability to play and download videos. I thought the Blockbuster app would be great. In my opinion, the blockbuster app was not great. I rented a movie (Sherlock Holmes. $3.99 to rent for 24 hours, $18.99 to buy), and it wouldn’t play. It would start to play, and it would play for a few minutes, and then it would begin to make this hideous buzzing sound, like an angry mutant bee. Then the movie would freeze and quit playing. If I was really lucky, the phone would just restart itself. Twice I wasn’t that lucky and had to remove the battery.
And that brings me to my real issue with this phone: I couldn’t make it quit restarting. I would be sitting at my desk, and the damn thing would kick off and kick back on, apparently independent of external stimuli. It would literally be sitting on the desk, nobody touching it, battery not low (miserable battery life, but since I’m having the same problem with a myTouch 3g, I think that must be a problem endemic to HTC), no apps running….and it would reboot. Constantly. In the middle of phone calls. Halfway through typing a text message (which reminds me: I don’t mind on-screen keyboards, but I thought this one was bad. It tries to autocorrect every word, which gets tedious, but then when you actually find the word you were looking for and click it, it doesn’t automatically put a space after the word. So you go on typing your text, then realize the dictionary is looking for some bastard combination of the word you just wrote and the new word you thought you were writing.). Listening to music. Which is not a great feature in any phone, but this one is my actual phone. It’s the phone I use to be on call, it’s my home phone. And half the time I couldn’t make a call out on it because it was rebooting. Then it deleted my Twitter account, which nobody can explain yet. Do you know what a pain it is to rebuild a twitter account because your PHONE wiped it out? (Which reminds me: I had to pay to download a twitter app, because on the third day I had the phone, the native twitter app wouldn’t load my twitter feed. It kept saying that my user name and password were incorrect. I actually logged in to a computer to check on the actual twitter site, which let me in with no problems. Fine. So I downloaded an app. After 24 hours with that app, I started getting the same message: “Invalid user name or password”. And then the account went away.) I digress. Not only would the phone reboot itself, but half the time it would apparently forget what it was doing, and just hang up. Completely stall out, and then I had to yank the battery and try it again. Sometimes it was a three or four battery yank process.
My other complaints are minor compared to that: the Windows Mobile app store sucks, and it’s expensive. There are way too few apps that cost way too much money. I realize I have been badly spoiled by the Android market. Just try to download something from the Amazon MP3 store. It works fine for one song, but I’m still on the phone with Amazon CS trying to get a credit back for an album that wouldn’t download (David Garrett: Rock Symphonies. Check it out. I highly recommend it.). Amazon keeps telling you to download the Amazon Music Store file, but Windows Mobile doesn’t support it. I have no idea where my album ended up. Possibly Minsk.
Shazam? $4.99 on the Windows App store. Free everywhere else on the planet. I didn’t mind paying for it, I just don’t see why WinApp is the only app store charging for it. Maybe they’re not, maybe this is a new shazam business model, but I didn’t pay for the app either in the apple store or the android store, and didn’t really appreciate having to pay for it here.
Facebook? Native client is great, and it looks really pretty on that great big screen….if all you want to do is read it. Twice I actually got a menu to pop up and ask if I wanted to comment, then it told me my user name and password were invalid to leave comments. On my mom’s page. It seems unlikely that she blocked my comments. I could be wrong, last week was a bad week for everyone, but it just seems unlikely.
Maybe I’m not smart enough to use this smart phone. I get the feeling that owning this one is like having a really high maintenance girlfriend with paradoxically low self-esteem. It needs a constant stream of your attention, and constantly needs you to buy things for it to get even the basic services back out of it. (And by “basic services”, I mean things like conversation, and actually getting it to acknowledge you’re in the room. Not whatever you were thinking.)
I’m sending it back, no harm no foul. I will be more cautious in the future about buying a Windows Mobile product. Although I will concede that this seems to be a poor example of the breed. May the Force be with you.
5 Stars Read this before rating 1 star please
I read through some of the one star reviews for this phone, here as well as other places. Many people will only leave feed back when they have had a negative experience and rarely when its positive. Hopefully after reading this you will explore your phone a little more before attempting to blame the OS or the phone.
For those experiencing lock ups, freezes, or errors. T-Mobile has released a ROM update that can be found on their site that contains numerous bug fixes. If you feel like maybe T-Mobile is to blame then take your IMEI number to HTC’s website and grab the ROM update from them. Be aware though, doing this will require you to manually set up data connections or you will be unable to send or receive text messages or connect to the web.
The camera actually takes very nice pictures. If they appear grainy there can be a couple of ways to resolve this. First, clean the lense with a soft cloth and remove any debris. If this does not resolve it then launch the camera application and go to the settings. Change the White Balance to “Auto” by tapping on it until it says Auto. Tap Advanced and make sure the resolution is set to 5 Megapixels. Tap to the second page of the Advanced Settings and make sure the Quality is set to Super Fine. Doing these few things may help you get better pictures, I know the pictures I have taken with my HD2 have rivaled the quality of my Canon point and shoot camera.
The keyboard, yes, if coming from a Touch Pro 2 or other hard keyboard phone you will experience a learning curve. Its basically the same thing as the iPhone in normal form. I have used smartphones for years and this was my first 100% touch screen phone. If you have big fingers this may not be a good phone for you if you text and email a lot from the phone. Anyone that has an iPhone will tell you, when the keyboard is up, the screen is cut off. Thats the compromise to having a full touch screen phone that is not as thick as a Touch Pro 2 which has a keyboard slide out. Swype is a great keyboard if you are a normal talker. I am into drag racing so swype didnt really do a good job for me. You cant swype out “I picked up a GT 6776 turbo built by Limit Engineering” easily.
If you just picked up the phone, dont bother setting up email accounts before letting the phone boot up. This is a problem that seems to have come from Windows XP. When you are on the screen to set up your Gmail account the phone has not yet turned on its data so connecting is impossible. Boot the phone all the way, look for the 3G T-Mobile (or Edge) and then set up your accounts.
Google Maps app, if you are not in 3G loading the map will take a while. Turn off satellite view to help the maps load quicker. This would be a problem even for an iPhone or a Droid phone, if the bandwidth is not there, it will take a while. This is not a Windows thing.
Facebook, the facebook app that comes standard on the phone is BASIC at best. Go to the Windows Market Place and download the latest from there. Its free and will allow for more interaction beyond just seeing someones profile. Also, this will not just update on the fly as it seems to be looking out for your data usage. When you load the app, there is a Refresh button at the bottom for Home. Tap that and it will then refresh the Home page. For any other page, if there is not a Refresh at the bottom, it will be in the Menu. You can refresh all pages to get the latest content.
Speaking of Market Place, installing apps is fairly simple. One problem with some apps from the Microsoft store is the install screen will appear behind the application making it appear the install has locked up. Exit the store to expose the dialog behind and finish the install. Also there are much better places to get great content for your phone. One app that I recommend is the OMarket app which is similar to the Microsoft Market Place but offers a lot more, for a lot less.
Accessing the SD card in the phone. There are two ways you can do this. 1. Use the cable supplied with the charger as a USB cable on your computer. When you connect the phone choose “Connect as disk drive” and do not shut the screen off. If you have AutoPlay turned on you should then get a dialog asking what you want to do. If not, open My Computer (or Computer on Vista or 7) and look for the “Multimedia Sync by doubleTwist” drive. This is your phones SD card and opening this allows you to browse the contents or move stuff on or off the card. T-Mobile did not do anything to prevent you from doing this and syncing with Windows Media Player is just another way of doing things. 2. Remove the MicroSD card from the phone, place it in an SD Card adapter and place it in an SDHC card reader. If you do not have an SDHC card reader then your computer will not see the card. One note: When the phone is connected to the PC you will not be able to browse the storage card from the phone. If you need this, just eject the phone from the PC and then explore the storage card.
Setting up MP3’s to use for ring tones I will admit can be a little cumbersome. The easiest way to do it is to connect the phone to your PC through ActiveSync and explore the device, not the storage card. Go to My Documents\My Ringtones and put the mp3’s you wish to use there. An alternate way to do it is to load them on the storage card first. Locate an mp3 you would like to use, tap and hold your finger on the file. This is sort of like right clicking and a context menu will appear with a choice that says “Use as Ringtone”. Tapping that will automatically copy the mp3 to the “My Ringtones” directory and assign it as your ring tone. You will then see it show up in the list of selectable ring tones for your contacts.
If you want to back up the phone there are several ways to do this well. You can use Microsoft My Phone which is on the phone already. I would suggest getting the latest from the Microsoft Market Place (its free) and you can back up your stuff that way. You can also get a PIM Backup tool (there are free ones) but I wouldnt recommend this unless you are comfortable doing so. The apps I have used are simple enough and can back up EVERYTHING minus apps. Basically, I can take another Windows phone, run a restore on it and I will have all my text messages, email messages, speed dials, call history, contacts, calendar, etc.. I wouldnt recommend doing anything through Windows Live beyond checking your Hotmail account.
Viewing movies on the phone, of course its a big screen so why not enjoy it? The best format is MP4, for the most part, if you have an MP4 video file it will play nicely on the phone. The phone will also play WMV and MPG files and with the DviX player will also play Dvix AVI files but the playback may not be as good as it is with MP4. I have over a dozen full length movies on my phone and they play without any problems.
I hope this review is helpful for you. If you have other questions I would suggest going to the T-Mobile forums on their site and asking the question there. You may be pointed to the XDA site as well which is a great place to get apps, games and other cool stuff for your Windows phone but you need to be comfortable with installing and configuring the device before you start downloading customizing appplications. My not-so-technical sister has one of these phones as well. She had adapted nicely to it and has tons of apps, more on hers than mine. She has only asked me one question ever about the phone, and it turned out to be her SIM card that was the problem.
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