Tech Test Drive: Unlocked Mobile Phones

Unlocked mobile phones let to use the handset on multiple carrier networks by swapping SIM cards, but there are several things to remember about unlocked phones. First, it has to be a GSM handset, since they use SIM cards. If it's a price you're willing to pay, here are some of the latest unlocked smart phones available today.

HTC Nexus One by Google (unlocked)

Pros: The Nexus One has a gorgeous display, a lightning-fast processor and a loaded feature set. The enhanced voice capabilities worked flawlessly, and the phone delivers solid performance.

Cons: Like other Android phones, the Nexus One encourages you to store apps on the internal memory. The media player remains average, and it's missing some wanted features like hands-free Bluetooth dialing. Currently, Outlook Calendar syncing is not available.

The bottom line: It doesn't have all the features we'd like, but the Nexus One greatly enhances the Google Android family with a fast processor, good call quality and improved voice control features. What's more, we love that all versions of the phone will be unlocked.

Samsung i890 Omnia HD

Pros: The Samsung i890 Omnia HD boasts a large and gorgeous AMOLED touch screen and features an 8-megapixel camera with HD video recording and playback. The TouchWiz interface is greatly improved, and the smartphone also offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.

Cons: The phone is expensive and doesn't support U.S. 3G. Call quality could have been better.

The bottom line: While the lack of 3G and expensive price tag will keep it out of the hands of the masses, the Samsung i890 Omnia HD is a powerful multimedia smartphone that rivals the other high-end touch-screen devices.

Nokia E72 Black (unlocked)

Pros: The Nokia E72 brings upgrades such as a faster processor, more memory and a better camera. The phone's design is both sleek and sturdy. It offers excellent messaging capabilities, 3G support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.

Cons: The optical trackpad doesn't work very well. Speakerphone volume is a bit low. It has a lower-resolution screen compared with some of its competitors. Without carrier backing, the E72 carries an expensive price tag.

The bottom line: Though the price might be off-putting to many, the Nokia E72 is a well-designed and full-featured messaging smart phone for business users.

Users can make unlimited international calls from their Apple handsets without any hassles as making cheap international calls is now so easy and money saving. Consumers have to enter only the access number to call the particular landline or mobile numbers of their relatives or friends staying abroad.

Related News