Network World - Smartphones are dominating the mobile market, so it’s no surprise to see a lot of different types of smartphones, whether it’s the iPhone or Android-based devices. Still, there are some other cell phones out there that don’t necessarily need to cost $300 in order to get cool features. In addition, we all need accessories, so we compiled a list of battery packs, cases and other fun things we saw in the cell phone space this season.
Products reviewed in this category:
Fascinate smartphone, by Samsung and Verizon WirelessCell phones always involve a high degree of personal preference, but I think even the most die-hard iPhone fan is going to be very, very happy with the Samsung Fascinate, the member of the Galaxy S class of handsets available from Verizon Wireless. Sure, the iPhone broke a new trail and set a new standard, but many objected to the high prices of both the phone and the carrier’s service, the closed-system nature of apps in Apple’s world, and assorted other limitations. Android, upon which the Samsung Fascinate and many other smartphones are based, arrived on the scene with great promise, and great hype. So – can this pretender to the iPhone throne really be any good?
Why, yes, thank you for asking, it can. I like this phone so much I bought one for myself (an early holiday present; it’s been a tough year and I deserve it), and I couldn’t be happier. First, the form factor – it’s kind of big, but not too large for the front pocket of your jeans. There’s only an on-screen keyboard, so it’s very flat but still easy to hold. And that screen! It’s a four-inch, 480x800 OLED that’s bright and clear, and, again, plenty big for any mobile task. The browser is terrific, and very easy to use with great HTML support and simple, effective ergonomics. There’s haptic feedback from the soft keyboard if you’d like, and I’ve found my typing to be quite accurate. There’s also Swype typing if you want it, for even faster text input.
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