Review: I-Mate SmartPhone 3 (SP3)
Summary
We are very impressed at mPhone with this I-Mate SmartPhone.
It is one of the best SmartPhones on the market. The SP3 comes
with an enhanced user interface, reduced size, at the same
time keeping all the expected functionality of a SmartPhone.
What is the SmartPhone 3 (SP3)?
SP3 Size
The SmartPhone 3 is more than a simple upgrade. The new chassis
is smaller, thinner and lighter than previous SmartPhones.
Impressively, the chassis still captures the large range of
buttons we have come to expect from SmartPhones.
Display
The SP3 includes a 2.1" colour screen which is the same size
as the SmartPhone
2. It is of much better quality though, with good colour
reproduction and sharp picture.
Connectivity
The SP3 has a standard USB port. Meaning the phone can be
synchronised with a PC using the supplied cable. This method
can also be used for charging the phone. Although, some people
may prefer the cradle supplied with the SP2. A separate UK
power adaptor is also provided (as standard) so you can also
charge your phone when away from your PC.
Memory
The 64MB of internal memory should be more than enough room
for storing personal information, pictures and video clips.
However, should you start to run out there is a mini memory
card slot. Unfortunately, its located under the battery, meaning
the phone has to be turned off to remove or replace it. mPhone
offer these reduced size SDs. They are listed under the SP3
SIM Free.
New SP3 Operating System (OS)
It is not just the outside that has had a overhaul, the Operating
System has been upgraded to Windows Mobile 2003 2nd edition.
Not much has changed in comparison to the SP2, but the interface
is a bit better in terms of clarity and is easier to select
the common features such as MSN messenger, email,
contacts, and the personal diary.
Texting has been dramatically improved with the keypad better
labelled. It is now easier to write longer compositions such
as emails.
Control
Thankfully, the SP2 joystick has been replaced by a unique
and user-friendly button scroller. This offers much enhanced
performance and control.
SP3 Camera
As with most phones today, the SP3 comes with a camera to
a maximum resolution of 640x680. It can not compete with a
dedicated digital camera but adds allows for the odd snap
shot to be taken then sent by email, MMS or downloaded to
the PC.
SmartPhone Applications
New applications are also included, such as file and task
manager.
mPhone Rating:
Overall we give the SmartPhone 3 (SP3) a rating of 4 out
of 5.
Positive: Small size, long lasting battery, great
interface
Negative: Memory card slot is difficult to access.
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