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Samsung i900-Omnia Review - At a Glance



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John Walton
Posted on Monday, October 13, 2008
by John Walton, Cell phone editor
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At a Glance

 
Editor Rating: 4.5
5 
4 
What’s Good: Universal landscape mode and universal landscape QWERTY; optically-enhanced action button functions as a scroller or track pad; appropriate use of haptic feedback and accelerometers; excellent 5 MP camera with LED flash, auto-focus and face detection; secondary cam for video calls; embedded GPS; FM radio and overall A/V-friendliness; large, welcoming and sensitive screen; it's a generally comfortable phone that makes you feel cool even though you're obviously using a Windows product. 

What’s Not Good: Windows Mobile may be a bit cumbersome and inaccessible for some users, even with Samsung's TouchWiz UI, which is a bit bland, but better than WM default; reception problems in sketchy coverage areas; no built-in stylus sheath; volume rocker sits RIGHT next to the camera button; in-call screen lock can be a hassle; proprietary headphone jack.

Bottom Line: The Omnia is at the top of everyone's list of gotta-try-it touchscreen phones. It has capable hardware and a generous screen; large and sensitive enough to compete in the iPhone-driven market. The unlocked version is pricey, but cheaper than it closest rival – The HTC Touch Diamond. And, it feels tougher than other phones in the same price range. Windows Mobile isn't everyone's favorite interface, but you really have to play with this beauty to appreciate how comfortably it rests in your hand.

Specs:

  • Make/Model: Samsung SGH-i900 (Omnia)
  • Network: HSPDA 7.2 Mbps
  • Data: Quad-band EDGE, Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi,
  • Carrier: Unlocked
  • Size: 112 X 56 X 12.5 mm
  • Weight: 122 g
  • Form Factor: Candybar with full Touchscreen
  • Display: 3.2” TFT WQVGA (240 X 400)
  • Memory: 16GB/8GB with an SDHC expansion slot that supports an additional 16GB
  • Notable Features: 1440mAH battery; Windows Mobile 6.1 professional, Push email, tv-output, business card recognition, Samsung's proprietary easy sharing capabilities, nice camera.
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