Samsung SCH-W559 (Unlocked)

Reviewed by

Nicole Lee

on 02/22/2007

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Quick specs
Band / mode: GSM 800/900/1800/1900 (Quadband)
Combined with: With digital camera
Weight: 3.2 oz
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The Samsung SCH-W559 is a unique touch screen phone that provides tactile feedback in the form of tiny vibrations. Read our first take for more details.

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CNET editors' take

Reviewed by:
Nicole Lee
Edited by:
Kent German
Reviewed on: 02/22/2007

Editor's note: The Samsung SCH-W559 is usable only in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It will not work in North America

One of the biggest gripes we have with the current crop of touch screen phones has been the lack of tactile feedback. Though we're still waiting for the Apple iPhone, our experience with the NEC N908 tells us that manipulating a touch screen phone takes quite a bit of getting used to--you can't dial by feel and texting can be a pain. The Samsung SCH-W559 attempts to solve this problem, however, with the integration of Immersion's VibeTonez technology that provides tactile feedback in the form of tiny vibrations. While it's not quite perfect, it is a step in the right direction. Combined with the W559's multimedia feature set and its support for both GSM and CDMA networks, this is one phone that is sure to be a conversation piece. The price is $150 but as noted above, it isn't compatible with U.S. cellular networks.

At first glance, the Samsung SCH-W559 resembles an ordinary slider phone like the Samsung SGH-T629. Clad head to toe in silver, it measures a very slim 3.56 by 1.9 by 0.54 inches and weighs a lightweight 3.17 ounces. Yet, as you attempt to open the W559, you'll notice it is actually a candy bar phone without a keypad. Its impressive 2.2-inch display is one large touch screen, with all inputs done via your fingers or the included stylus. The stylus is attached via a charm-like lanyard off the corner of the phone, which became quite annoying after awhile--it was often in the way when we were answering calls. We would've preferred it if Samsung had incorporated the stylus into the design of the phone, rather than include it as an accessory.

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