T-Mobile 3G phones

Kent German, Senior Editor September 3, 2008

Like most people, we waited a long time for T-Mobile 3G. We tried to be patient, but as the other major carriers launched their wireless broadband networks and rolled out streaming video services, we started to get antsy. We thought it would come in 2007, but it was only last May when the magic day finally came. Sure, the network is still available only in two cities, but we're glad to see that T-Mobile finally switched it on. Likewise, while the carrier's selection of 3G phones also is limited, the carrier is beginning to introduce more supporting handsets. The Sony Ericsson TM506 was the first 3G model introduced after the carrier launched its network. It may not offer streaming video, but it is a thoroughly decent phone with a pleasant design, good call quality, and satisfying features. It also offers wide 3G support for UMTS and HSDPA. The remaining handsets actually came before the carrier made its 3G announcement. They're not flashy either, but they support UMTS 3G bands. They include the Samsung SGH-T639 and SGH-T819 and the Nokia 6263 and 3555.