Samsung LN26A450 26-Inch 720p LCD HDTV

Product Description

Enjoy the clarity of HD in a stunningly modern design with a unique bezel and frame to suit your decor. True 720p resolution offers amazing LCD image detail, complemented by a 5,000:1 dynamic-contrast ratio for vivid colors and bold blacks. Three HDMI inputs let you connect quickly and easily to your peripherals. Call up a variety of menu options and preferences via a smart user interface. Speaking of smart, the intelligently hidden speakers ensure a sleek, clean look that fits in almost any surroundings. TruSurround delivers a compelling, virtual surround sound experience through any two speakers playback system, including internal television speakers and headphones. It is fully compatible with all multichannel formats up to 5.1 channels Stereo broadcast reception, (MTS & SAP) with 181-channel capacity. Hidden bottom speakers with 5 Watts x 2 audio power SRS TruSurround XT - TruSurround is a patented SRS technology that solves the problem of playing 5.1 multichannel content over two speakers V-Chip system allows blocking of rated TV and movie programs determined by the parent to contain objectionable content Trilingual on-screen displays in English, Spanish or French HDMI-CEC allows peripheral devices such as a DVD player to be controlled by TV remote control Channel coverage - VHF 2-13, UHF 14-69, and CATV 1-125 (up to 181 pre-selected channels) Antenna - CATV/VHF/UFH 75-ohm, F-type Connections - 3 HDMI High Definition Multimedia Interface (2 rear, 1 side), 2 Rear Component (Y/Pb/Pr), Rear RF Input, Side S-video input, Composite AV (Rear, Side), Side Headphone, Rear PC D-sub, and Side HDMI-CEC Dimensions - Width 26.4 x Height 17.7 x Depth 3.5 / 26.4 x 19.7 x 8.5 with stand Weight - 18.3 pounds / 21.4 pounds with stand

Product Details

* Color: Black
* Brand: Samsung
* Model: LN-26A450
* Dimensions: 17.70" h x 3.50" w x 26.40" l, 18.30 pounds
* Display size: 26

Features

* 720p HD Resolution
* Wide Color Enhancer
* 3 HDMI Inputs
* 8 ms response time

Roku Digital Video Player PLUS Premium Cable Pack

Product Description

The Roku player plus premium cable pack instantly delivers movies and TV episodes directly to your TV over the Internet. More than 40,000 choices are currently available from Amazon Video On Demand and Netflix with more being added every week. The Wall Street Journal, CNET, WIRED and other publications have given the Roku player overwhelmingly positive reviews. The Roku player is compact, and easy to set up and use. It comes with everything you need to start watching within minutes of opening the box - the standard yellow, white and red cables, both Wi-Fi and Ethernet are built in, wireless remote, batteries, plus three premium cables for more options and even better audio and video using your HDTV, home theater or A/V receiver. Start watching instantly anywhere you have a TV and a high-speed Internet connection.
Product Details

* Brand: Roku

Features

* 40,000+ movies and TV episodes available from Amazon Video On Demand
* 12,000+ movies and TV episodes available with your Netflix subscription
* Includes three premium cables - 1 6-foot HDMI cable, 1 set of 6-foot Component Video cables, and 1 6-foot Optical Audio cables
* Connecting is easy - both Wi-Fi and Ethernet are built in
* Works with virtually any TV - old or new - including HDTVs

Sony DVP-FX820/P 8-Inch Portable DVD Player, Pink

Product Description

Take the cinema on the road. Watch your favorite DVDs anytime you want with the DVP-FX820 portable DVD player. Boasting a swivel screen and rugged design, this device is perfect for people on the go. Watch movies anytime and anywhere you want with Sony's cool DVP-FX820 Portable DVD Player. With a 6-hour battery life, an 8" high-resolution swivel screen that provides a clear and crisp picture from any angle, 2 headphone jacks for sharing, and a car adapter that ensures your movies outlast even the longest road trip. The FX820 plays your CDs or MP3s, and lets you view your personal photo albums. Control buttons are located on the screen bezel for ease of use. Skipping or fast-forwarding a scene is so easy to do, either with the control buttons or with the dual-sensor remote control. This portable DVD player is so lightweight and compact that you can carry it anywhere you go. 12 bit/108 MHz Video DAC Control Buttons on Screen Bezel dts Output Dolby Digital Multiple Disc Resume On Screen Display Disc Capacity Background Graphics Ports - 1 RCA Audio Input with Line Input/Output Select(TM) Switch, 1 RCA Audio Output with Line Input/Output Select(TM) Switch, 1 Composite Video Input with Line Input/Output Select(TM) Switch, 1 Composite Video Output with Line Input/Output Select(TM) Switch, 1 Optical Audio Digital Output, and 2 Headphone Outputs (Side)
Product Details

* Color: Pink
* Brand: Sony
* Model: DVP-FX820/P
* Released on: 2008-02-29
* Dimensions: 6.30" h x 8.90" w x 1.27" l, 2.41 pounds
* Display size: 8

Features

* 8" LCD Widescreen Monitor
* High-Resolution (800 x 480 resolution)
* 180 Swivel and Flip monitor
* Up to 6 Hour of Battery Life
* Dual Sensor for Remote Control

Sony BRAVIA Theater System (DAVHDX576WF) - Black

Product Description

The Sony DAV-HDX576WF 5.1 channel BRAVIA Theater System has an integrated 5-disc DVD / CD changer that will upscale your DVD's to 1080p through the HDMI connection. Plus, this amazing system uses S-AIR technology to eliminate speaker wires running from your system to the rear surround speakers. For easy multi-room audio, it also includes an AirStation speaker that let's you listen to music in another room of the house.
Product Details

* Color: Black
* Brand: Sony
* Model: DAVHDX576WF
* Dimensions: 23.00" h x 26.00" w x 28.00" l, 40.00 pounds

Features

* S-AIR Technology - Multi-room listening made easy.
* iPod Cradle (TDM-iP10) for DIGITAL MEDIA PORT included
* Multi-room S-AIR receiver/speaker system included
* 1080p Upscaling via HDMI
* BRAVIA Matching and Adjustable Floor Standing Speakers

Samsung NC10-14GB 10.2-Inch Netbook (1.6 GHz Intel Atom Processor, 1 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, 6 Cell Battery, XP Home) Blue

Product Description

The NC10 Netbook by Samsung is ideal for users looking for a low-cost, highly mobile solution that is aimed at "consuming" data via the Internet versus "creating" data. Key System Benefits - Easy to take with you whether it’s around the house, the campus or wherever one might travel; provides significant performance capabilities to wander the Internet and take care of basic productivity applications; enables one to view the Internet in full screen without compromise in a clear and comfortable display; maximum storage capacity for everything you download from the web; provides maximum system performance for basic web browsing and limited system functionality; enhances system performance without adding unnecessary system overhead; provides a great balance of price and performance; full size, easy to use keyboard is coated with Silver "Nano" ions to help protect the user from harmful bacteria. Key System Features - Weighing in at just 2.8 pounds; the NC10 adopts the new Intel Atom CPU; 10.2" wide LCD display providing 1024 x 600 resolution with 250 nits of brightness and an anti-reflection gloss coating display; high capacity 6-cell Lithium Ion battery providing up to 5 to 6 hours of continuous run time; 160GB capacity hard disk drive (HDD); 1GB system memory (RAM); Windows XP Home Operating System; Silver-Nano Keyboard; available in Blue or White color.
Product Details

* Color: Blue
* Brand: Samsung
* Model: NC10-14GB
* Dimensions: 7.30" h x 1.19" w x 10.27" l, 2.80 pounds
* CPU: Intel Core Solo 1.6 GHz
* Memory: 1000MB DDR2 SDRAM
* Hard Disk: 160GB
* Processors: 1
* Display size: 10.2

Features

* 10.2" Wide, 1024 x 600 WSVGA , 220 nits
* Intel Atom processor N270, 1.6 GHz, 533 MHz Front Side Bus, 512 KB Level 2 Cache
* 160 GB, 2.5" SATA HD, 1 GB DDR2 800 MHz
* Intel 945GSE shared, 802.11 b/g WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR, 10/100 BaseTX LAN
* 6-Cell Lithium Ion, Genuine Microsoft XP® Home with Service Pack 3, 1.3 Mega Pixel webcam, Kensington Key Lock, 1 year standard parts and labor, 2.8 lbs

Logitech QuickCam Vision Pro for Mac (Black)

Product Description

To deliver image-perfect detail and clarity, the Logitech QuickCam Vision Pro webcam combines Logitech's premium autofocus technology with Carl Zeiss optics. The Logitech webcam uses a voice coil motor for its autofocus system, instead of a stepper motor. Focusing is fast and fluid - crisp even in extreme close-ups only 10 cm from the camera lens. Logitech's autofocus system compensates for changes in image-edge sharpness and refocuses images in less than three seconds. And through its exclusive collaboration with Carl Zeiss, Logitech ensures that the lens meets the world-renowned Zeiss standards for design and manufacturing to achieve superior sharpness in a compact, lightweight design.The 2-megapixel sensor helps the Logitech QuickCam Vision Pro webcam capture video images in high resolution. It is assisted by Logitech's RightLight 2 technology, which enables the webcam to adjust intelligently in dim or harshly backlighted situations.
Product Details

* Brand: Logitech
* Model: 960-000254
* Platform: Mac OS X
* Original language: English
* Dimensions: 3.75" h x 8.00" w x 9.00" l, 8.00 pounds
* CPU: AMD Athlon 1 GHz
* Memory: 128000MB DRAM
* Hard Disk: 1GB
* Processors: 1
* Native resolution: 640x480
* Display size: 669.2913385827

Features

* High-definition video
* 2-megapixel sensor
* Built-in microphone
* Up to 30 frames per second live video on Skype and iChat
* High-Speed USB 2.0

Fujitsu ScanSnap S510 Sheet-fed Scanner

Product Description

In one step, the ScanSnap S510 scanner digitizes both sides of a document in a single pass, in color, and at an amazing speed of up to 18 pages per minute. With a touch of the button, the ScanSnap S510 scanner enhances the user experience with a host of automatic features. The ScanSnap S510 scanner easily installs via its USB 2.0 interface and its small footprint requires less space than a letter size piece of paper.
Product Details

* Brand: Fujitsu
* Model: PA03360-B515
* Dimensions: 6.20" h x 11.20" w x 6.20" l, 11.30 pounds
* CPU: AMD Athlon 1 GHz
* Memory: 128000MB DRAM
* Hard Disk: 1GB
* Processors: 1
* Native resolution: 640x480
* Display size: 669.2913385827

Features

* Scan Resolution 600 dpi Optical
* Image Sensor CCD
* Bit Depth 24 bit Color / 8 bit Grayscale / 1 bit Monochrome
* Media Size Legal 8.5" x 14"
* Ports 4-pin Type B USB 2.0 USB

Acer V223-WBD 22" Widescreen TFT LCD Monitor (Black)

Product Description

This display offers solid and reliable performance without breaking your budget and can be used for business, school work, home projects and entertainment.
Product Details

* Color: Black
* Brand: Acer
* Model: ET.EV3WP.001
* Dimensions: .0" h x .0" w x .0" l, 13.45 pounds
* Native resolution: 22
* Display size: 22

Features

* 1680 x 1050 resolution
* 2500:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 300 cd/m2 brightness
* 170°/160° horizontal/vertical viewing angles
* VGA and DVI (HDCP) connectors
* 5ms response time

Compaq CQ2009F Desktop PC (1.6 GHz Intel Atom 230 Processor, 1 GB RAM, 160 GB Hard Drive, DVD Drive, XP Home)

Product Description

Hp compaq sff atom 230 cpu 1gb 160gb windows xp supermulti drive
Product Details

* Brand: Hewlett-Packard
* Model: CQ2009F
* Dimensions: 9.69" h x 10.71" w x 4.41" l, 12.00 pounds

Features

* Desktop PC with 1.60GHz Intel Atom Processor 230 with 512KB L2 Cache
* 1GB PC2-4200 DDR2 SDRAM Memory, 160GB 7200RPM SATA Hard Drive
* Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 with 64MB Dedicated Graphics Memory
* SuperMulti DVD Burner, 10/100Base-T Network Interface
* Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, dims in inches: 4.41 (W) x 10.71 (L/D) x 9.69 (H) approx., 8.16 lbs

AcomData PureDrive 1 TB USB 2.0/eSATA External Hard Drive PHD10000USE-72

Product Description

The Acomdata pureDrive is the perfect solution for those who want nothing more than pure, high-performance data storage. Conveniently store all of your tunes, your pics, your flicks and all of your other digital files in one compact, portable package. Near-silent operation - Dissipates heat so efficiently it doesn't need a fan System requirements - Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP, Vista, 233MHz or faster processor, Mac OS 10.2 or later, G3, G4, G5 or Intel processor, USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 port or free eSATA port (eSATA cable not included)
Product Details

* Brand: Acomdata
* Model: PDHD1000USE-72
* Original language: English
* Dimensions: 6.00 pounds
* CPU: PowerPC G4 2.1 GHz
* Memory: 2000MB SDRAM
* Hard Disk: 1000GB
* Processors: 1

Features

* Perfect solution for high-end graphics, storing digital video, photos & music, desktop publishing, and backups
* High-speed USB 2.0 - Transfer data at blazing speeds up to 480 Mbps
* eSATA - Transfer rates up to 1.5 Gbps
* Vertical and horizontal - Adhesive rubber feet and slide-on stand included
* Security lock slot - Physically secure your Drive to prevent theft

Logitech diNovo Edge Keyboard (Black)

Product Description

The ultra-slim Logitech diNovo Edge keyboard for Windows PC delivers the ultimate in feel and response. The revolutionary TouchDisc with hyper-speed scrolling and pixel-perfect control makes trackpads obsolete. The slim recharging base doubles as a keyboard stand. Work longer thanks to the longer-lasting Li-Ion batteries and more securely via Bluetooth wireless technology. A precision micro-scissors mechanism distributes typing force evenly across key surfaces, making every stroke natural and fluid. Stylishly sleek Laser-cut from a single piece of Plexiglass and set in a brushed aluminum frame, the diNovo Edge makes a bold statement. Full-sized standard 18 x 18 mm keys, 3.2 mm key travel, 60g activation force 10M keystroke supported per key Scissor switch technology Plexiglas panel with brushed aluminum palm rest 38 mm circular Touchpad with horizontal and vertical scrolling Acceleration settings goes from None to 10 times the scrolling speed 17 one-touch access controls with instant backlit feedback 57 mm touch sensitive volume slider with instant backlit feedback Built-in rechargeable 950 mAh lithium ion battery Fast-charge time - About 5 min for approx. one day usage Full-charge time - About 2 hours for up to 2 months usage System Requirements - IBM or Compatible PC, Windows XP (SP2) or Windows Vista (all editions), Available USB port, CD-ROM Drive Dimensions (HxWxD) - 0.43 x 16.14 x 8.27 inches ( 11 x 410 x 210 mm ) Weight - 940 grams
Product Details

* Color: Black
* Brand: Logitech
* Model: 967685-0403
* Original language: English
* Dimensions: .43" h x 16.14" w x 8.66" l, 7.00 pounds
* CPU: AMD Athlon 1 GHz
* Memory: 128000MB DRAM
* Hard Disk: 1GB
* Processors: 1
* Native resolution: 640x480
* Display size: 669.2913385827

Features

* PerfectStroke key system - A precision micro-scissors mechanism distributes typing force evenly across key surfaces, making every stroke natural and fluid.
* Stylishly sleek - Laser-cut from a single piece of Plexiglass and set in a brushed aluminum frame, the diNovo Edge makes a bold statement. Only 11 mm thick!
* Elegant charging base - Put your keyboard on display while charging via the slim base/stand. Advanced Li-ion batteries recharge faster and last longer.
* TouchDisc scrolling - A new type of touchpad, the TouchDisc unifies scrolling, selection, and cursor control. Scroll at hyperspeed with a touch of your finger.
* Backlit stealth controls - Hidden hot keys light up at a touch, and fade into the background when not in use. The touch-sensitive volume slider gives you precise, fingertip audio control.

Kingston Technology DT150/64GB 64GB DataTraveler 150 USB 2.0 Flash Drive (Red/Black)

Product Description

DataTraveler 150 USB Flash drive is big news in mobile storage. With a capacity of 64GB, it lets you store more digital files than ever before on one drive. DataTraveler 150 from Kingston helps budget-conscious users break storage barriers, allowing them to easily store and move files in a 64GB device no bigger than a pocketknife. As easy as click and drag, DataTraveler 150 can hold just about any file you can think of - term papers, theses, digital images, spreadsheets or other important documents.Backed by legendary Kingston reliability, DataTraveler 150 is a reliable, inexpensive solution for carrying digital files with you anywhere you go.
Product Details

* Color: Red/Black
* Brand: Kingston
* Model: DT150/64GB
* Released on: 2008-11-15
* Platform: Unix
* Original language: English
* Dimensions: 4.00" h x .5" w x 4.00" l, .25 pounds
* CPU: AMD Athlon 1 GHz
* Memory: 64000MB DRAM
* Hard Disk: 64GB
* Processors: 1
* Native resolution: 640x480
* Display size: 669.2913385827

Features

* Simple - just plug into an available USB port and start trasferring files
* Convenient - Pocket-sized form factor for easy portability
* Practical - Stores cap securely on end of device to prevent loss of cap
* Guaranteed - 5-year warranty
* Works with Windows Vista

Sony Ericsson W910

Sony Ericsson W910 review: Walkman in style

The Sony Ericsson W910 reinforced the Walkman ranks with a suave, yet strong performer. The thin and elegant slider does look the part, while HSDPA (3.6 Mbps) and Walkman 3.0 are the right features to expect in a high-end device. At first glance, the W910 brings a few brand new software and hardware solutions to the scene. Stay with us as we go beyond the disarming looks and try to determine whether Sony Ericsson W910 has what it takes to win the hearts of the customers.

Key features

• HSDPA (3.6 Mbps), EDGE, Bluetooth (with A2DP)
• SensMe™ and Shake control features
• Slim sliding construction
• Media Center, Walkman 3.0
• Dedicated Call and End keys
• Fast photo browser
• Ample 2.4" display
• Powerful loudspeaker
• FM radio with RDS
• 1GB or 2GB M2 card included, M2 USB card reader

Main disadvantages

• Comes at an overpriced price tag
• Wobbly slider
• 2 MP camera with neither autofocus, nor flash
• Only 40 MB internal memory
• Video recording in QVGA resolution at 15fps
• Irrelevant gaming/photo keys
• No skins for the Walkman player

Compared to the recently reviewed Nokia N81 8GB, the refined Sony Ericsson W910 outdoes its Nokia rival in both looks and size.

Sony Ericsson W910 comes in a nice compact black-and-orange box with all the necessary gear to get you started - charger, USB data cable, stereo headset, 1GB Memory Stick Micro (M2) (in our case, you may get yours with 2GB card), plus the usual papers and installation CDs. A tiny piece of hardware will make your face broaden into a grin. For the first time, a compact Sony Ericsson USB 2.0 M2 card reader with a status LED and a strap is included in the retail box. We ran a quick test on it comparing performance to a regular card reader on USB 2.0. The standard reader transferred 113 tracks totaling 492 MB in 4:30 min, while the Sony Ericsson USB 2.0 M2 card reader executed the task in almost the same time - 4:20 min. So, you get the same transfer rate and the compact dimensions are an added gain.

Sony Ericsson W960

Sony Ericsson W960 review: Walkman extreme

Sony Ericsson W960 is aptly the big gun in the Sony Ericsson portfolio of music-centered handsets. Gifted with the scorching 8GB of storage space and a large touchscreen TFT display, a 3-megapixel camera, Wi-Fi and 3G capabilities, the W960 easily stands out in the Walkman crowd. Powered by the Symbian OS and UIQ user interface, it delivers one-of-a-kind Walkman experience with rich fullscreen visualizations and advanced track filtering. All this is enough to have us drooling over the specs sheet, eager to get our hands on this smarty Walkman and see what it's made of.

Key features:

• Walkman Touch music player
• Symbian OS 9.1 with UIQ 3.0
• 3G support with video calls
• Wi-Fi support
• 3 megapixel camera with autofocus
• 8GB of storage space
• Dedicated touch-sensitive player keys
• 262K color TFT touchscreen display
• FM radio

Main disadvantages:

• Not as impressive in life as in the promotional photos
• Slow interface response as storage gets nearly used up
• Back key location changed
• No memory card slot (yeah, we know it has 8GB of internal memory)
• Music player cannot sort tracks by filename
• No EDGE support

The Sony Ericsson W960 is the successor of Sony Ericsson W950, which came with 4GB of integrated memory, but failed to gain popularity for the lack of camera and Wi-Fi capabilities. In fact, featurewise the W960 resembles more the Sony Ericsson P1 - they are almost identical in terms of hardware (although the P1 has an Infrared port, which lacks in W960). The W960 features the same 208MHz processor and the same amount of RAM - 128MB. However, the W960 boasts a dedicated Walkman key, three touch-sensitive keys for controlling the music player and, finally, that all-important Walkman home screen application with fullscreen visualizations. You probably are as excited as we are about this review, so let's not waste any more time and get on to it, shall we?

Nokia 5700

Nokia 5700 review: Smart performer

It seems that music phones are becoming an increasingly important part of every company's portfolio. It's therefore no surprise that a lot of effort is put in developing such devices, which explains the constantly improving functionality and performance. We'll now have a look at Nokia's most recent creation in the genre - the Nokia 5700 XpressMusic family. Just a quick glance at its features tells you this phone is promising, to say the least. But practice has taught us that features are not all that a handset is about. Stay with us as we find out what this heavyweight musician is capable of.

Key features:

• Fast and responsive user interface
• Excellent display, with unmatched legibility under direct sunlight
• Great earphones
• Symbian S60 3rd edition FP1
• Sporty, youthful design
• The swiveling part is well-built and very functional

Main disadvantages:

• Awkward joystick
• Weak bass
• Bizarre Menu and C keys
• No Pencil key
• No built-in 3.5mm jack

Nokia 5700 went off to a flying start with its very release, earning itself quite a number of fans. Smartphone functionality topped with music phone charisma was sure to appeal to all walks of life. Although its design was originally meant to mostly please the young, Nokia 5700's curvy lines and lacquered plastic are enjoyed by men and women of all ages.

We started this review with a couple of questions on our mind, and we put the phone to the test looking for the answers. First and more important, we were wondering which one gained the upper hand in Nokia 5700 - music phone or smartphone. And secondly we wanted to know what had changed in the music lineup since the Nokia 3250 release. Answering the first one was going to involve a lot of digging, while the other didn't need this much of an effort. Only a quick glance at both handsets' specs was enough to convince us that Nokia had not been wasting their time. The display is now bigger and offers QVGA resolution and 16M colors. Connectivity has undergone a major improvement, with 3G support added. All that, plus shedding a good 15g of weight, clearly shows that Nokia 5700 and Nokia 3250 are two phones that simply do not belong to the same class.

Nokia 5310

Nokia 5310 review: XpressMusic slimline

Nokia 5310 made thousands of fans with its very announcement. Packing a 16M color QVGA display, dedicated music keys, stereo Bluetooth and FM radio in a sleek thin body, this neat handset is sure to appeal to quite a lot of slim phone admirers. Plus, the XpressMusic logo is a good enough premise for music phone fans to be on the watch-out too. With the first XpressMusic bar-shape we have an amazingly thin and lightweight handset with serious sonic power.

Key features

• 9.9 mm slim and lightweight
• 3.5 mm standard jack
• Lots of preloaded applications
• 2" 16M color display with QVGA resolution
• Ambient light sensor
• Decent keypad
• Bluetooth with A2DP
• S40 5th edition user interface
• Stereo FM radio with RDS
• Dedicated music keys
• microSD card slot (2GB memory card included)

Main disadvantages

• Mediocre camera with no flash or auto focus, really slow
• Tri-band only
• No 3G
• Memory card slot under the battery cover
• Inadequate QCIF video recording
• Uneven backlighting

It seems that Nokia is more determined than ever to get its fair share of the slim phone market. Releasing 5310 right after the 6500 classic comes to prove that producing phones less than 10 mm thick is no problem for the Finns. Moreover, Nokia 5310 seems an attempt at winning the hearts of the music loving masses and, as we see it, might just be the right stuff for that.

Reflecting on its corner of the mobile phone market, we think Nokia 5310 will face the strongest competition from Sony Ericsson W880 and W890, when the latter hits the shelves. Other potential rivals are the Samsung Ultra phones, as Samsung is well known for the high audio quality of its handsets and true mastery of the slim shape.

Samsung i450

Samsung i450 review: Symbian sounds good

In most people's minds Symbian and Samsung are two things that just don't go together. The Samsung i450 however might just be here to prove them wrong. Sporting the rare dual-slide design, it is one of the most interesting smartphone offerings recently announced.

Key features

• Symbian OS 9.2, Series 60 v3.1 UI
• Dual slide design with unique Touch wheel key
• 2.4" 256K color TFT LCD display with QVGA resolution
• 3G with HSDPA
• 3.5mm standard stereo audio jack
• microSD memory card slot reportedly accepting high-capacity cards
• FM radio with RDS
• Bluetooth v2.0 with A2DP

Main Disadvantages

• No WLAN
• Average display quality
• Mediocre camera
• No camera lens cover
• 3.5mm jack cannot be used for plugging a hands-free set

A music-oriented smartphone is not the most frequent sight around, so it's no wonder the few of those get quite a lot of attention. As we see it, with Samsung i450 it is quite well deserved. The dual slider packs a good number of features, which - combined with the unique music control solution and the Series 60 user interface - seem a good stepping stone to market success.

Thinking about its market spot and rivals, the first name that comes to mind is Nokia N81. Boasting nice sound quality, similar design and dimensions plus the same OS, the N-series phone will surely put up a fight for the hearts of music smartphone lovers. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi capabilities and the dedicated gaming keys can be a huge advantage for some of the potential buyers.

If Samsung want to make a serious market stand with the i450, it will probably need to be released at an a bit lower price than N81. This however is only our opinion, and Samsung's marketing department might see things differently.

Only one last thing before we get to the actual reviewing routine. We have to warn you that our handset is a beta unit and some minor changes and bug fixes might take place before the handsets hits the shelves. We are confident enough to use this unit as a base for our review so stay tuned, we wil be back shortly after the break.

Sony Ericsson W902

Sony Ericsson W902 review: Cyber-Walkman-shot

A phone like no other or a quick-fix Cyber-shot Walkman mongrel trying to pass off as a hip novelty - you can call the Sony Ericsson W902 whatever you like, but it will still be the best cameraphone among music phones. The 5 megapixel auto focus camera opens a new chapter in the Walkman book, while everything else about the W902 walks and talks multimedia. Based on the excellent Sony Ericsson feature phone interface, you get all sorts of treats like the top-of-the-line Media Center with screen auto rotation, Shake control and SensMe.

There may be hardly anything else to wish for in a feature phone, though GPS and Wi-Fi in the latest Walkmans might make the W902 stumble a bit. But it still has a special place booked in the hearts of brand loyal fans who are no longer forced to choose between imaging and music, Walkman and Cyber-shot.

Key Features:

• Quad-band GSM and 3G with HSDPA support
• 2.2" 256K-color vibrant TFT display of QVGA resolution
• 5 megapixel auto-focus camera with LED flash and cell ID geotagging
• Dedicated external music keys
• Bluetooth (with A2DP) and USB v2.0
• Accelerometer sensor for display auto-rotate
• 25MB of internal memory and M2 memory card slot (8GB card included)
• Walkman 3.0 music player with Shake control and SenseMe
• FM radio with RDS
• Multi-tasking support
• Smart dialing
• Comfortable keypad

Main disadvantages:

• Smallish screen
• Images suffer excessive sharpening and purple fringing
• Poor video recording capabilities
• No lens cover
• No office document viewer
• Shaky battery cover
• Walkman button and Shake control implementation not user friendly

It's been a while since the Sony Ericsson W902 was released on the market and though we had a little preview out pretty much before everyone else, we somehow managed to miss a dedicated detailed review of this promising chap in the hectic winter months of 2008. Well, it's time to sort that and now that we secured a fully retail-ready Sony Ericsson W902, we are more than happy to take it out for a spin.

So let's take a look at where the W902 currently stands on the market taking into account the pretty capable competition as well.

The Sony Ericsson W902 currently retails online at the rather steep contract-free price of around 300-350 euro (or 400 US dollars). At a similar price (or a little less than that) you can probably also opt for the Samsung M7500 Emporio Armani. Its flashy night effects, Armani branding, dedicated music keys, and 3.5mm audio jack will get it noticed as a potential alternative.

Despite its music slant, the Armani is part of another market segment and is some features (and megapixels) short of the W902. Both are stylish gadgets with an ear for music so in the end it's a matter of priorities.

Amazingly, you can get the quite capable Sony Ericsson C902 Cyber-shot for around 100 euro less than the W902. It's got a nice slide-up camera cover, a bunch of touch-sensitive camera shortcuts and pretty similar multimedia capabilities.

Another trim and slim 5 megapixel sharpshooter is Samsung F480. It makes up for the missing music features with a large touchscreen display and superb image quality.

When it comes to music, Nokia's XpressMusic just can't be ignored. The latest touchscreen Nokia 5800 costs about the same as the Sony Ericsson W902. The camera performance on the 5800 sucks, but it offers a touch-based user interface, Symbian OS, GPS, Wi-Fi and really great audio quality. The huge screen, VGA video recording and the 3.5mm audio jack don't make things for the W902 either.

Having said all that, we should point out that when you buy a Walkman phone, you don't just buy the hardware, but one of the best user experiences for a feature phone. The Sony Ericsson W902 is surely heavily overpriced right now, but once it settles at a more reasonable price tag, it will be a great buy.

LG KP500 Cookie

LG KP500 Cookie review: Grab a bite

It almost feels unfair of LG to give the KP500 a name that's so hard to say no to. The Cookie scent seems to have inspired a craving already and LG are hoping to have you coming back for more. A genuinely affordable touchscreen, a very decent specs sheet, and fun and friendly interface can turn out quite a treat if baked right. Our light and crunchy review is hot out of the oven, so let's crack the fortune cookie, shall we.

The LG KP500 Cookie seems to have every reason to chill out and cash in on the kept promise of making touch-operated phones so sweetly inexpensive. Available for a mere 200 euro (contract-free) it might enjoy a decent run, pretty much owning the lower end of touchscreens at this point. So much so, that it's tempting to speculate whether the Cookie could've been the right kind of response to the first iPhone, with the proper timing of course. OK, this maybe taking it too far but don't go blaming us. It's the Cookie.

Key features:

• 3" 256K-color TFT touchscreen (240 x 400 pixels)
• Quad-band GSM support
• 3 megapixel fixed focus camera
• Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP
• 50MB internal memory
• Hot-swappable microSD card slot (supporting card with capacity of up to 16GB)
• Accelerometer for auto screen rotate
• Virtual QWERTY keyboard
• FM radio with RDS
• Widgets interface
• Multi-tasking with a real task manager
• Excellent touch optimized image gallery
• Handwriting recognition
• Smart dialing
• Office document viewer (no PowerPoint)
• Simple, yet stylish design
• Relatively inexpensive price

Main disadvantages:

• No 3G support
• No Wi-Fi
• Video recording no good at QVGA@12fps
• Camera has no auto focus and flash
• No DivX/Xvid support
• No standard 3.5mm audio jack

By the way, LG have seen to it that the jar is full of Cookies of various icing. The KP500 comes in black, brown, silver and gold. Just released and exclusive to Orange, LG KP 501 is the very same Cookie (with minor changes to the exterior) in two new paintjobs: pink and silver (black will also be available).

Now then, Cookies will pour down on the market in all shapes and flavors, but let’s see what they’re up against.

The hot (as in heatedly debated) Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is perhaps comparable to the Cookie pricewise. Well, if 80 euro does not sound close enough, the complimentary stuff you get with the Nokia 5800 is well likely to justify the price premium.

The 5800 XpressMusic is by no means as user-friendly and fun to use but its spec sheet is almost scary in comparison: GPS receiver, Wi-Fi, smartphone OS and screen resolution are all out of the Cookie reach.

Another alternative among recent touch phones is the HTC Touch Viva, which retails for about 210 euro. The as-basic-as-it-gets WinMo device carries a trimmed-down version of the TouchFLO UI but the not too friendly underlying OS will hardly lure too many potential buyers away from the Cookie. It's only fair to note though that basic in WinMo terms includes Wi-Fi, and that's the ace up Touch Viva's sleeve.

Both devices we just lined up the closest Cookie's competitors in terms of pricing and touchscreen functionality. But they are smartphones and their targeting is different. A couple of non-OS touch phones by Samsung might also count here but none comes close enough to the Cookie concept.

Both Samsung F480 and F490 outdo the LG KP500 in terms of data transfer speed and imaging, but are old enough to have lost some appeal. Plus, their price is still not competitive enough.

Well, that pretty much leaves the Cookie unchallenged in its price bracket. Not a bad way to start really, but it's about time we checked the real deal. The rest of LG KP500 Cookie is this small jump away. You know the drill - exterior and ergonomics coming up.

Samsung M7500

Samsung M7500 Emporio Armani review: Own the night

Samsung and Armani do it again and the GSMArena fashion column is back in business. It's a whole new dress code this time, as the Samsung M7500 Emporio Armani leaves the tux in the closet and goes clubbing. And if a name that opens doors is not enough, the Emporio Armani phone by Samsung claims to have an ear for music. We guess there's no doubt though, its No 1 job is to get you noticed. Aptly dubbed Night Effect, the M7500 Emporio Armani just loves it when it's dark. So, someone please hit the lights.

Each time a fashion brand enters the mobile phone market controversy is inevitable. The haute couture label certainly justifies the asking price but will the handset get away with gaps in the spec sheet.

The Samsung M7500 Emporio Armani is a stylish handset with a distinct focus on music. The flashing light effects, the dedicated music keys plus the 3.5mm jack and the slightly redone music player application are a reason enough for music lovers to check it out before purchasing their next handset. The distinct music slant is also quite in line with the handset's obvious refusal to compete for a top slot in the fashion phone segment.

Key Features:

• Quad-band GSM and 3G with HSDPA support
• 2.2" 256K-color OLED display of QVGA resolution
• 3 megapixel auto-focus camera with smile shot
• Emporio Armani branding
• Light effects
• 120MB of internal memory and microSD memory card slot (verified to work with 16GB cards)
• 3.5mm standard audio jack
• Dedicated music keys
• FM radio with RDS
• Bluetooth (with A2DP) and USB v2.0
• Multi-tasking support and a convenient shortcut bar on the homescreen
• Office document viewer
• ShoZu integration
• Smart dial

Main disadvantages:

• Hefty price tag
• QCIF video recording
• No camera flash
• No accelerometer, so no fancy music controls or screen rotation
• Smallish display for the price range
• Task Manager is assigned to the camera key

With the Emporio Armani logo, Samsung are trying to attract users who have both music features and style in mind. The phone is mainly youth-oriented, especially with the flashy stripes and logos on the sides.

It is interesting to note the partnership that gave birth to the Samsung Armani phone back in September 2007 was not a one-hit-wonder. But Samsung have obviously tried to not make it d?j? vu all over again. The original Giorgio Armani touchscreen phone clearly has the high-end sophistication, confidence and class associated with the luxury Giorgio Armani brand whereas the Emporio Armani target range is different and that's obviously reflected in the M7500. Take the flashy branding away and you get a regular handset with music on its mind. Think M3510 and M3200 of the Beat series.

Though it's hard to identify a clear competitor for the Emporio Armani branded M7500 - as such partnerships are not so common in the mobile-phone world - we should definitely mention some phones which have a lot in common with the Samsung M7500. Probably the Walkman phones from Sony Ericsson are the major competitor for the Emporio Armani handset. Walkmans in this price range do seem to have the upper hand in terms of features though.

The 300 euro they're asking for can get you Sony Ericsson W902, which matches the features of the M7500 but adds a 5MP AF camera, accelerometer for auto screen rotation, image geo-tagging and nice perks like SensMe and Shake control.

Half the price of the M7500 is another music-centered competitor - Nokia 5320 XpressMusic. This S60-driven phone is 3mm thicker, has only a 2MP camera with fixed focus and a smaller 2" display but outdoes the Emporio Armani with its 8-way Navi key, dual-band HSDPA and smartphone capabilites.

Motorola ROKR E8 can also come into play and again it's almost twice as cheap as the M7500 Emporio Armani. The Moto's limitations are the 2" display, no 3G support and the 2MP fixed focus camera. On the other hand, the E8 is only 10.6mm thin, has a touch-sensitive morphing keypad, scroll wheel and 2 GB of inbuilt memory.

Before we wrap it up, Samsung do have another co-branded phone: the Samsung F480 Hugo Boss. This one differs from the original F480 only by virtue of the Hugo Boss insignia on the case and of course the well-stocked retail package.

If fashion and music are your game, hit the next page for more on the Samsung M7500. Let's turn it on and light it up, and take it for a spin.

LG KS360

LG KS360 review: Of teens and twitters

LG KS360 is a mid-ranger that will easily catch your eye with bold colors and quirky controls. LG have managed to create a handset that's cunningly full of character, though it's kinda hard to think of it in the hands of a grown-up. It does seem like a toy at first glance and those color combos are to die for if you are of certain age and attitude.

Yet quite unexpectedly, LG KS360 is quick to serve a bunch of nice features such as a large and vivid 2.4-inch display, full QWERTY keyboard, a 2 megapixel snapper and… believe it or not… a wee tot of touchscreen.

This midrange phone isn't exactly hard to keep your cool about and the flashy paintjobs don't help much either. But we were pleasantly surprised by the ergonomics and performance of the KS360. So while we gear up to put the LG KS360 through its paces, you better get yourself ready to be surprised too.

The LG KS360 will be available in several color combinations, some of which will be exclusive to various carriers - the full list of color options includes Black and red, Black and silver, White and soft pink, and Titanium and bright blue.

Key features

• Tri-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE support
• Large 2.4" TFT display of QVGA resolution
• Full slide-out QWERTY keyboard with screen rotation
• Touchscreen dialing
• 2 megapixel camera
• Stereo Bluetooth
• FM radio
• microSD memory card slot (up to 4GB)
• Threaded SMS
• Attractive 3D image gallery
• Office document viewer

Main disadvantages

• No UMTS support
• No camera autofocus
• Poor video recording resolution (fit for MMS only)
• Awkward file manager - no user-created folders
• Uncomfortable phonebook (takes two clicks to get to the contacts list)
• No smart dialing
• The FM radio lacks RDS and cannot play in the background
• Poor web browser and basic music player

The young and texting-savvy are two obvious targets of the slide-out QWERTY KS360. And while 18+ is not very likely, bill payers are given some sort of say with pay-as-you-go. The manufacturer is teaming up with operators such as Orange to offer the devices with the added value of free messages and free access to social community websites such as MySpace, Bebo, and FaceBook on Pay-as-you-go basis.

Currently the handset can be found for around 80 GBP (140 US dollars or 99 euro) at Orange UK (the pink color version is one of their exclusive deals too). So if you are looking for a LG KS360, we guess your carrier's retail stores are the place to start.

The unusual form factor puts the LG KS360 into a really narrow market segment currently cornered by the T-Mobile Sidekick family (the Sidekick Slide - a joint effort of Danger and Motorola - being the recent model at T-Mobile UK).

What both devices have in common are lively colors, QWERTY keypad and the young targeting, but with a decisive difference. T-Mobile is offering the Sidekick only on a Pay-monthly basis, while the KS360 is available on Pay-as-you-go. Additionally, the Sidekick Slide is way larger and heavier than the LG KS360.

That said, the KS360 probably has solid chances of market success for being adequately equipped and quite properly focused. It's also a nice performer, as you are about to find out. Join us after this very small jump as we explore the looks and feel of LG KS360.

Nokia 5800 XpressMusic

Nokia 5800 XpressMusic review: Young as you feel

It's touchscreen o'clock for Nokia and the stage is set for the 5800 XpressMusic. Go ahead and touch it. We did and we've got a story to tell.

Now, it's technically not the first time Nokia get their hands dirty with touch screens, but it sure feels they really mean business this time. For Nokia 5800 is not the only story here. The smart platform with the most influential touch receives its first trial by touch. Being the first device running Series 60 5th alone is enough for the 5800 to be remembered by.

It's a first try and proceeding with caution is only fair. Nokia 5800 is unthreateningly and unobtrusively positioned in the mid-range and the XpressMusic branding helps share some of that first-S60-touchscreen weight. Still, it's way more than an affordable music-centered handset. The 5800 has a strong and unmistakable Nokia identity and delivers multimedia prowess. So, let's touch, shall we?

Key features:

• 3.2" 16M-color TFT LCD 16:9 touchscreen display (360 x 640 pixels)
• Symbian S60 5th edition
• ARM 11 369 MHz CPU, 128 MB of SDRAM memory
• 3.2 megapixel autofocus camera with dual-LED flash
• VGA video recording at 30fps
• Dual-band 3G with HSDPA support
• Quad-band GSM support
• Wi-Fi
• Capable GPS receiver and Nokia Maps 2.0 Touch
• microSD card memory expansion, ships with an 8GB card
• TV out
• FM radio with RDS
• Bluetooth and USB v2.0
• 3.5mm standard audio jack
• Excellent audio quality
• Landscape on-screen virtual QWERTY keyboard
• Proximity sensor for screen auto turn-off
• Accelerometer sensor for automatic UI rotation and motion-based gaming
• Rich retail package
• Affordable price
• Office document viewer
• OVI and MySpace integration (direct image and video uploads)

Main disadvantages:

• Limited 3rd party software availability
• UI is still immature with somewhat dodgy user experience
• Touchscreen sensitivity not the best in the class
• No smart dialing
• Poor image quality and no GPS geotagging (geotagging is now added via firmware update)
• Touch web browser not quite polished
• No voice-guided navigation license
• No office document editing out-of-the-box
• Doesn't charge off microUSB

Now, you're not the only one waiting for Nokia 5800 XpressMusic. A legion of touchscreen phones have been busy delivering more and better, and owning that market. They sure won't be giving Nokia and S60 5th the warmest of welcomes.

At this point, Nokia 5800 may as well be more of a trespasser than a worthy rival. We mean, stealing even the tiniest bit of market off such formidable competition should be a win to savor for every newcomer. And still, we shouldn't be looking at the actual handset alone. Maybe the 5800 isn't make or break for Nokia, but S60 5th should darn well be.

We're looking at the first S60 touchscreen. A lot less hoping for the best than preparing for the worst may sound like the right kind of attitude. Because a first try will be measured by just anything that lives and breathes, and has a touchscreen. So, let's see what Nokia 5800 XpressMusic is up against. Just mind you that it's more than just the names of a few handsets - it's generations of touchscreen development.

Apple may be looking down with amused detachment at yet another iPhone-killer wannabe. We guess Nokia 5800 XpressMusic doesn't want that label but it won't escape it. We are talking the market leader against the touch interface pacesetter. Maybe not this time, but this one is worth keeping an eye on in the long run. At this point though, for the price of an unlocked contract-free iPhone 3G you can easily obtain two Nokia 5800 XpressMusic handsets - sounds a bargain, doesn't it?

Windows Mobile is well into the picture too. Recent HTC models (Diamond, Touch HD) and Samsung i900 Omnia have shown that powerful multimedia is no orphan in the WinMo world. Loads of 3rd party software and cool and nifty UI plug-ins (TouchFLO 3D, TouchWiz) are great assets but the heftier price tag sets them back a bit. The Diamond comes closest to the Nokia, but it's still about 30 euro (40 US dollars) more.

LG and Samsung are also quite versed in the ways of touchscreen. Both makers have sizeable touch portfolios, ranging from affordable, non-smart touchscreens to 8 megapixel multimedia monsters. Samsung do boast a bunch of WinMo touch devices too. What's more, the company is keen enough on Symbian too, so that's potentially another "touching" chapter in the rivalry between the top two market-share leaders.

So, obviously the touchscreen game is no joke - it's getting tougher by the minute out there. Let's now check if the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic has what it takes to play along. We just took a peek in the retail package and - boy, are we impressed. Join us on the next page, where cheers roar as the box breaks open.

LG KC910 Renoir

LG KC910 Renoir review: Portrait of a high-flyer

The LG KC910 has a moniker that sends out a bold and clear statement about talent. Packing a whopping 8 megapixel camera and top-of-the-line video recording, the LG KC910 Renoir is all about capturing the moment, leaving an impression. While this alone should be enough to assert an identity, the Renoir just won't stop there. With the full touch user interface and the portly 3" display, everything is a mere touch away. Wi-Fi, HSDPA and GPS are all aboard to add the last bits of oomph to the feature-loaded LG Renoir.

The exciting facts and figures from the Renoir specs sheet however won't really give away its real-life performance and this is where we step in. We already had the camera performance of the LG Renoir to bits in our 8 megapixel cameraphone shootout but it's time to move up and look at the bigger picture.

It certainly took us quite some time to bring this review forward. Perhaps we even pushed it over the peak of your anticipation, but we didn't mean to get you starved so you like the meal better.

Our better-late-than-never department - duly sent to the corner, by the way - has finally prepared a full-featured, action-packed and hopefully eye-opening review of one of the best imaging mobile phones this year - the LG KC910 Renoir.

Key features:

• Tri-band/Quad-band GSM versions, dual-band HSDPA
• 3" 256K-color touchscreen TFT display (240 x 400 pixels)
• 8 megapixel autofocus camera, xenon flash (geo-tagging, face tracking, blink detection, touch focus, manual focus)
• Video recording in AVI format, VGA@30fps, QVGA@120fps, time-lapse QVGA videos
• Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP
• Wi-Fi
• GPS receiver with A-GPS support
• TV-out
• 100MB internal memory
• Hot-swappable microSD card slot (ships with 8GB card)
• Accelerometer for auto screen rotate
• DivX/XviD video playback
• Dolby Mobile music enhancement
• FM radio with RDS
• Office document viewer
• Multi-tasking with a real task manager
• Handwriting recognition
• Excellent touch optimized image gallery
• Direct video uploads to YouTube

Main disadvantages:

• Xenon flash is inadequately powered and causes the camera to underexpose
• Fullscreen camera viewfinder doesn't show the entire frame
• No video streaming over Wi-Fi (such as the mobile YouTube)
• No Java connection over Wi-Fi (so Google Maps needs a data plan)
• No voice-guided GPS navigation
• Stylus as dongle only, no stylus compartment
• Design will not appeal to everyone

LG Renoir is among the few 8 megapixel cameraphones that are already on the market and chances are you have been eyeing it big time for this year's holiday shopping - especially if you are into big touchscreens.

It builds on the Viewty popularity but does walk its own path, adding a number of innovations to the equation. The feel and overall experience is different - and better - with LG Renoir.

We guess we're looking at one of the most obvious rivalries in the game. The main competitor of the Renoir full-featured multimedia package is no other than Samsung Pixon. Both share the touchscreen form factor and will probably appeal to the same kind of users.

Choosing between them is a tough call. The Pixon has more camera-centric looks and is certainly a match for the Renoir imaging skill. Both have similar price tags and, while the Pixon lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, it makes up some with slightly bigger screen estate, better widgets, WVGA video recording and quad-band GSM support (which most Renoirs on the market reportedly lack).

Now that we have it duly covered, it's only fair for the competition to clear the stage for today's headliner - the LG KC910 Renoir.

Nokia N96

Nokia N96 review: King's new clothes

Every time Nokia Nseries numbering goes up a notch geeks are holding their breath. Well, geeks - including us - are no ordinary human beings, but in the case of Nokia N96 they'd been holding their breath since February. The time this multimedia monster picked to actually hit the shelves must have made quite a few people fear it being already outdated.

Being a successor of the Nokia N95 8GB, Nokia N96 has some king-size spec sheet to top and it can't be accused of not trying. There's FP2, double the built-in storage and DVB-H. The bloodline is strong but the crown is heavy and ancestral sins will be held against the heir twofold. The modest battery capacity and the downgraded CPU do raise some questions that need their answers. Join us for an out-and-out review of Nokia's latest top-of-the-shelf offer. Let's see if it has got the performance to walk in them shoes size N95.

Key features:

• 2.8" 16M-color TFT LCD display of QVGA resolution
• 5 megapixel autofocus camera with dual-LED flash and AF assist light
• Built-in DVB-H TV tuner
• Symbian OS 9.3 with S60 3.2 UI
• Dual ARM 9 264 MHz CPU and 128 MB of RAM
• 3G with HSDPA support
• Quad-band GSM support
• Wi-Fi with UPnP technology
• Built-in GPS with A-GPS functionality and 3 months of free voice-guided navigation
• Dual slide design with dedicated gaming/audio keys
• Massive 16GB onboard storage
• microSD card slot with microSDHC support
• Built-in accelerometer for UI auto-rotation
• 3.5 mm audio jack
• TV out
• Stereo FM Radio with RDS
• Car charger in the retail package
• VGA video recording at 30fps
• USB and Bluetooth v2.0
• One free N-gage game and Transformers movie preloaded
• Keypad locking slide key

Main disadvantages:

• Inadequate battery life
• No camera lens protection
• The @$$#% N81-inspired design
• No office document editing out of the box
• Doesn't charge via the USB port
• Dreadful camera key
• Cheap looking keypad
• Unreasonably hefty price tag

Nokia N96 comes to top the Nokia multimedia portfolio, packing almost every single feature you can think of. It extends the functionality of its predecessor - Nokia N95 8GB with 16GB of internal memory, DVB-H TV receiver, and the latest version of the Symbian OS. There are also some more minor upgrades including music keys on the front panel, a kickstand (we love that one) for more comfortable video watching and dual-LED flash. On the negative side, the CPU has been tripped up but we are yet to see how this affects the performance.

Probably the most obvious alternative to Nokia N96 is Samsung i8510 INNOV8. It trades the DVB-H receiver for an 8 megapixel camera with lens cover, DivX support, DNSe audio technology, and a juicier battery. It also sports an optical joystick, which rocks for browsing. The Innov8 however is slightly more expensive than N96 and it lacks the complimentary stuff (Nokia Maps, 3 months of voice navigation, a free N-gage game and the Transformers movie).

For people on a tighter budget the Nokia N95 8GB might seem an option. It comes with all the features of N96, save for the DVB-H tuner and the FP2 but packs in a larger battery and faster CPU. The dual-LED flash isn't exactly the major upgrade to go on about. In addition, the looks of Nokia N95 8GB are way more our type. You know, we do believe something has went terribly wrong with the N81 design - and even worse, it's now reproducing itself ready to take on the world.

If you aren't a die-hard Symbian fan you might be lured away to Windows Mobile. Samsung i900 Omnia and HTC Touch Diamond are true all-in-one devices and the HTC Touch HD is just around the corner. Those who swear by QWERTY might also have a look at the HTC Touch Pro and the Sony Ericsson XPERIA X1. We doubt it there will be many to convert to WinMo but all those all-rounders are still worth mentioning.

Finally, if DVB-H is your main reason to go for Nokia N96, there are a few phones that support it without costing an arm and a leg. LG HB620T and KB770 are now really close to being released and neither is likely to be priced anywhere near the N96. In addition, the KB770 features a larger 3-inch screen, which - even if not exactly widescreen telly - still counts. Nokia N77 has also been around for quite a while, but hardly got really noticed.

As much as we enjoy this roll-call of all-but-the-kitchen-sink gadgets, there's quite a lot to do, so let's get going. Take the jump for unboxing and checkup.

Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte

Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte review: Carbon copy

Ask not what your phone can do for you. It's Nokia Arte, folks, so the question is who you need to kill to have it. Exquisite materials, sophisticated slider design and state-of-the-art finish are doing their best to camouflage the fact that there isn't much your phone can actually do for you. In geeky terms, that is.

But hey, we never held that against the Arte series. That Arte tag is just a sin tax and there's obviously people out there that can live with it. Cast in the same mold as its forerunners, Nokia Carbon Arte is topping the familiar OLED screen, 3G and 3 megapixel camera with carbon fiber and titanium and 4GB of inbuilt memory. Sounds like we've been there already but a glimpse of Arte is always a treat.

Key features

• Yells expensive (and it does cost an arm and a leg)
• Body made of the highest quality materials
• 2-inch 16M-color OLED display of QVGA resolution
• 3G support
• 3 megapixel camera with autofocus
• Full-house retail package
• Decent battery life
• Fingerprint resistant surface on the back
• Turn-to-mute
• Tap-for-time
• 4GB internal memory
• Series 40 5th edition user interface

Main disadvantages

• Smallish display with poor sunlight legibility
• Tri-band only
• No memory expansion
• Costs an arm and a leg
• Below-par camera performance
• No video calls

Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte is the third Nokia handset that comes to fill the gaping chasm between regular fashion phones (LG Black Label series, Samsung co-branded offerings) and out-of-this-world-expensive handsets (read: Vertu and the likes). Dressed to kill and priced to draw blood, Arte is so impressive it's intimidating. Thank goodness it's underpowered enough for many people to use as an excuse. Saves face, doesn't it?

With respect to pricing, Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte is practically comparable to its closest kin only - the Nokia 8800 Arte and the 8800 Sapphire Arte. Those have already been around enough for a hefty portion of that limited market to have sealed a deal but someone out there might just be going: "Carbon fiber and titanium? Now, we're talking."

The concept of upgrading must not be completely alien to even this utterly ungeeky super pricey segment. After all, previous 8800 owners are little likely to suddenly convert to Symbian or Eseries. That's where Carbon Arte comes in, so all of them Luna and Sirocco users don't feel deprived. Forgive that unfortunate choice of words.

Anyway, whether it's hammer-over-piggy-bank or conceited rejection, the Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte is back after the break. Hit the jump for a sneak-peek of the treasure chest.

Nokia 3600 slide

Nokia 3600 slide review: Smooth glider

Nokia 3600 slide is one of those handsets which no one seems to covet, love and lust but everybody ends up buying or having. It's a straightforward guess that a S40 handset of subdued but comfortable styling and sufficient skill will simply go around. The neat and compact Nokia slider has all the basics duly covered and strives to deliver beyond its price in terms of imaging. A 3.2 megapixel camera, VGA video and TV out should be enough of an identity booster.

Key features:

• Quad-band GSM/GPRS/EDGE support
• 2" 16M-color QVGA display
• 3 megapixel camera, autofocus and LED flash
• VGA video recording
• S40 user interface, 5th edition, FP1
• Bluetooth with A2DP, USB
• Stereo FM radio with RDS
• microSD card slot (up to 8 GB), 512MB included
• 2.5mm standard audio jack, TV-out
• Rich preinstalled content
• Nokia Maps
• Voice commands
• Compact and lightweight
• Nice oval shapes and neat slider design

Main disadvantages:

• No 3G support
• Average camera image quality
• Very rigid shutter key
• Rigid battery cover latch
• Memory card slot under the hard-to-remove rear cover
• The battery falls off immediately when the rear cover is removed
• The bottom row of keys gets scratched by the sliding action

Catering to the mid range is by no means an easy task. Affordability goes without saying, but you won't do without personality. How do you set your goods apart without ending up with a niche product? Plus, the midrange is a stretchy concept already. The limits are blurring over megapixel count, 3G and multimedia. Last but not least, yesterday's high-enders are getting cheaper, to make the utterly overcrowded midrange extra unfriendly.

Those are the kind of issues for Nokia 3600 slide to tackle and it chooses to do so by focusing on imaging. The 16M-color screen, 3 megapixel autofocus camera, VGA video and TV-out are the only goodies that are a bit too haughty for the midrange. The rest is plain and simple stuff that comes by the handful. The 200 euro package includes an audio player, FM radio, stereo Bluetooth, EDGE and expandable memory, all on the fit and reliable S40 platform. The smooth slider casing and neat looks round it all off.

It does come out as a comprehensive feature set, but 3G would've really made it hard to resist. The 3600 slide still has enough to keep us busy, so let's get down to it. Unboxing and hardware inspection are this small jump away.

Nokia 8800 Gold Arte

Nokia 8800 Gold Arte: Born with a silver spoon

How many phones can you name that would have made sense centuries back? Here's one: the Nokia 8800 Gold Arte. No, we're not talking medieval calling and texting, we're talking gold and leather.

Okay, it may not be solid gold, but it's the next best thing - the Arte is gold plated alright, but it sure looks - better yet, glitters - the part. Gold does not react with air and moisture so even after thousands of years gold artifacts do not loose their luster. Well, that's one thing you get for your dime - everlasting shine.

It's like choosing the interior of a ridiculously expensive car - creme leather, mahogany, you get the picture. Same with Nokia's Arte series - Sapphire, Carbon fiber and now leather and gold.

The color of gold depends on relativistic effects acting on the electrons… nah, no matter how you twist it an 8800 phone will not interest geeks. It is all about exclusive materials, high build quality and most importantly - making you look good.

In terms of technology, it's forged in the same crucible as the Nokia Carbon Arte - OLED screen, 3G, 3 megapixel autofocus camera, 4GB of inbuilt memory and Series 40.

Key features

• 18 carat gold-plated body
• Genuine white leather padding
• 2" 16M-color OLED display of QVGA resolution
• 3G support
• 3 megapixel autofocus camera
• Full-house retail package with a Bluetooth headset and desk stand
• Decent battery life
• Turn-to-mute
• Tap-for-time
• 4GB internal memory

Main disadvantages

• Smallish display with poor sunlight legibility
• Tri-band only
• No memory expansion
• Costs an arm and a leg
• Below-par camera performance
• No video calls
• No Smart dialing
• No office document viewer
• No Java multi-tasking

Talking value for money with the Nokia 8800 Gold Arte, or any of its siblings, will make as much sense as attaching an enjoy responsibly message to the Vertu Concierge service. Though the Arte Gold doesn't go as far as the Vertu, exuberance is its very name and the materials and looks certainly hold their own against the luxury models.

That is not to say it's cheap - save for the Motorola Aura, the Nokia 8800 Gold Arte is the most expensive phone you can buy from a mainstream manufacturer. For the same price, you could buy the Carbon Arte plus a Nokia E71 and still have a little cash left to play with. But then, it is gold-plated and that's very much where your money's going.

Upgrading a phone from the 8-series is obviously not about enhancing the capabilities - it's about using even more exclusive materials and denying common sense. After all, previous 8-series owners are unlikely to suddenly jump to Symbian or E-series unless they start gold-plating those as well.

By the way, the Gold Arte is probably targeting all of those Luna and Sirocco users who decided to… um… save their cash and skip the Sapphire and Carbon generation and jump at the next big thing. The Gold Arte will also most probably be quite popular among the ladies as well.

Now, Carbon Arte owners will probably want to wait for Diamond Arte or Wooden Arte or whatever comes next (they've already done Titanium).

The sole purpose of the Nokia 8800 Gold Arte is to send subliminal (though not very subtle) messages to everyone around you, not quite in keeping with the Connecting People spirit.

Now, we're about to take a closer look at another Arte handset. Right after this short jump, we'll ooh and ahh over the hardware - for the lack of a better word.

Sony Ericsson W508

Sony Ericsson W508 review: Above the fold

The Sony Ericsson W508 walks and talks midrange though by no means does it keep a low profile. What we have here is the full Walkman package at a bargain price and the rest of the W508 specs may as well be irrelevant if music is the first thing on your list.

A true Walkman at heart, the W508 takes after the Sony Ericsson W980 in many ways and even adds a dash of color to the Walkman experience - in fact, the StyleUp covers make it a regular chameleon.

There are eight StyleUp covers to choose from and the W508 always ships with a spare one in the box. And in case you wonder what's with all those paintjobs, let's not forget the W508 is in a twin predicament and has an identity to assert against the T707. That one we just reviewed, so we're sort of in for a sequel, though in Walkman flavor this time.

Key features:

• Quad-band GSM and 3G with HSDPA support
• 3.15 megapixel camera
• 2.2" 256K-color TFT display with 240 x 320 pixel resolution
• Secondary monochrome OLED external display
• Scratch-resistant surface for both displays
• Touch sensitive external music control keys
• Hot-swappable M2 card slot (up to 16 GB), 1 GB included
• Stereo Bluetooth (A2DP)
• Walkman music player with Shake control and SensMe
• FM radio with RDS
• Gesture control
• Accelerometer for screen rotation
• Basic multi-tasking support
• Smart dialing
• Threaded messaging
• Exchangeable StyleUp covers

Main disadvantages

• Camera doesn't have auto focus or LED flash
• Low-grade video recording (QVGA@15fps)
• No web browser screen auto rotate
• No document viewer

The Sony Ericsson W508 is a friendly phone that has many ways to interact with you - TrackID to find the track you've just overheard at the caf?, SensMe so you can pick songs based on your mood, Shake control to change tracks at the flick of the wrist plus touch-sensitive music buttons and even Gesture control to mute calls with a wave of your hand.

The proprietary audio jack and the single, lonely loudspeaker are points against W508 but support for 16 GB M2 cards and FM radio with RDS are guaranteed to keep you rocking from dusk till dawn.

3G goodies like video calls and HSDPA for high-speed browsing are here, complemented with the nice web browser. The lack of document viewer is a bit of a letdown but not really a feature a Walkman can't do without.