Conclusion
The introduction RAZR V3 was a watershed moment for
Motorola similar to the unveiling of the StarTac clamshell phone at the turn of the Century. Slim and sharp as a razor, the V3's industrial design has stood up well to the competition over the two years it has been on the market. However, its feature set now shows the signs of age, and consumers in the market for a phone with substance to match its style may be hard pressed to stick with the V3.
Whereas Motorola handsets such as the V557 feature a utilitarian design with modest looks and features built around a stable platform, the RAZR is all about show. Built to be noticed from its ultra-thin, wide profile to the alloy construction, etched metal keypad, and large, bright internal LCD, the V3 quickly became the handset of choice for celebrities, style-conscious executives, and trendsetting fashionistas everywhere.
Now available from T-Mobile and Cingular for very low costs after contract incentives, the original RAZR V3 has become something of a commodity, bringing its high-tech style to the hands of the everyday consumer user. Next-gen RAZRs like the V3c, V3i, and V3x feature upgraded hardware and feature sets more in line with current technology. However, none of these phones are yet available for GSM carriers in the United States. As such, the power user attracted to RAZR's style is caught in a dilemma for the time being: Go with Verizon and the CDMA V3c, spend extra for an import-only V3i or V3x, or stick with the original V3 and its circa 2004 technology?
The RAZR V3 is still a more than workable phone with its Quad-Band GMS reception, E-mail and IM support, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, speakerphone functionality, and VGA camera. What draws people to the RAZR most of all is the bling factor, and even at the ripe old age of two, the V3 still draws attention in spades. If you're not concerned with the latest tech and want a phone that works well and looks as cool as can be, the Motorola RAZR V3 might still be the choice for you.
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