Screen

The 3125 offers not one, but two 65K-color (TFT) screens. TFT internal screens are standard, but since external screens are often grayscale or LED, the TFT external is an added bonus.

The 128 x 128 px external screen, like those on most phones, spends most of its time displaying time, date, and phone status. However, it can also be used as a playback display when the phone is in media-player mode, or to take self-portrait pictures when the phone is closed in camera mode. In addition to facilitating self-portraits, the screen's 65K-colors allow for some nice clock display options of both digital and analog varieties. Instead of a clock display, the user may choose a full-color wallpaper with the digital time and date superimposed.

At 240 x 320 px, the 3125's internal screen is larger than most, allowing for more data to fit onscreen at once. The large screen should facilitate email readability and video discernability. Various display options allow for screen customability. Saved media files, including photos, may be set as wallpaper. Users may also adjust color scheme and home screen layout, which includes a large font option for easy text decipherment. The internal screen features one slight drawback; as with laptop computers, the buttons on the keypad make a subtle impression on the screen.

The Cingular 3125 includes a large internal screen which facilitates its use as a PDA, although the keypad buttons may begin to impress themselves upon the screen. The phone also features a full-color external screen which, in addition to its practical uses, contributes nicely to the overall design of the phone.

Audio

Since the 3125 primarily focuses on smartphone features, a media player is not necessarily an expected requirement. The phone nevertheless features MP3-playing capabilities on Windows Media Player.

As with most MP3 phones, users may upload songs from a computer or purchase songs for download directly onto the phone. Most computer users are already more than familiar with Windows Media Player, facilitating use of the 3125's audio playback system. The program allows users to sort music by Artist, Album, and Genre, as well as make custom playlists. When the phone is closed with Media Player running, users may control their music via the external screen and conveniently placed buttons on the front plate.

The 3125 also supports various music programs available for download from Cingular for a fee. Such programs include, among others, Music ID (which identifies a song playing on another device and offers it for download) and MobiRadio (which provides access to digital radio for a fee). Users should consult Cingular's website for further details, and be on the lookout for data fees.

With full MP3 capabilities and the familiar Windows Media Player, the 3125 should meet the user's expectations for a music phone. The front-plate buttons and external screen allow for a convenient portable music experience.

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