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- Average user rating: 3.0 stars out of 16 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
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5 out of 5 people found this review helpful
4.0 stars
"Best USA based International Smartphone"
Pros: Full data access outside of the US, input with Transcriber, Picsel Browser
Cons: Bulky & heavy, short battery life, complicated to learn
Summary: I bought this phone to test during a recent trip through Southeast Asia. All of the CNET review points are accurate, including the cons but, if you need a full featured smartphone for international travel, there is none better than the IP-830w.
I did experience initial frustration with the battery life which was draining completely within an hour. I discovered that one has to manually configure the phone to shut off all unnecessary features, like Bluetooth, when not using them. I also found the Active Sync version of "push" email from my company's Exchange server was a huge battery drain. Changing the setting from "As arrives" to "manual" made a huge difference. (Although still somewhat dependent on my Blackberry, I am learning that one doesn't need to be THAT connected to anyone, even work, even your boss.)
Another tip. When traveling outside of the US and using the phone's GSM setting, configure all email accounts, including Active Sync Exchange server accounts, to download only headers or just a few kilobytes. Data throughput charges add up quickly when roaming outside the US.
Two other huge plusses for me are Transcriber and Picsel browser, both of which I have never used before this phone. Transcriber allows you to enter text as handwriting using the stylus anywhere on the touchscreen. The Transcriber software parses the handwritten text and converts it to typed text. This has turned out to be my text input method of choice.
Even though the slide out QWERTY keyboard is more cramped than the Treo, I find it easier to use than the Treo. Not sure why.
The Picsel browser is a huge improvement over the built in IE browser that comes with Windows Mobile 5.0. Web page downloads are faster and the pages can be zoomed in and out with a simple tap and stroke of the stylus. I also love the option for viewing a web page in one column which eliminates horizontal scrolling. And, unlike Mobile IE, you can quickly toggle the layout between portrait and landscape. This is first small device on which I actually enjoy web browsing.
While traveling, the phone registered cleanly on the appropriate available networks in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. I was able to check email and browse the web. I avoided any major data streaming out of fear of the shock of enormous data charges at the end of the month.
In summary, if you need a smart phone for travel outside of the US, this is it. If you need a smartphone for use within the US, the Treo or Q are probably better options.
If Samsung creates a future versions of this phone that is lighter, slightly smaller, and has built in WiFi, camera, and longer battery life (please, oh please!) it will be the perfect smartphone for all purposes, domestic and international.
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