Introduction

It also eschews being so simple a person can't find or will miss an update if checked semi-regularly. The phone makes it just as easy to send updates as it is to receive them.

Other parts of the phone get less attention. There's no instant messaging on the phone, no extras like visual voicemail or photo editing options, and messages and emails are stored separately, as are contact entries from various sources.

The Kin Two is a fun option for young social butterflies and the limited, flat-fee entertainment options make managing the cell phone bill easier. But people that want more applications, downloads and extra options may get bored with the phone.

Design

The Kin Two definitely has a more approachable look than the Kin One. While the Kin One is close to square-shaped and compact, the Kin Two is less likely to turn heads with its more standard look and measurements of 4.38-inches long, 2.36-inches across and 0.64-inch thick. The Kin Two also looks more professional, with its all-black exterior. Whether blending in is a good thing or a bad thing depends on personal taste.

The Kin Two is a horizontal slider with a full QWERTY keypad tucked under its face. The keypad is wide enough to make mistyping difficult, but a bit short. As with the Kin One, the number keys are all arranged on the top row of keys, a configuration Blackberry users will have to get used to.

The screen view can go from horizontal to vertical based on which way the phone is turned. The screen has touch screen options for zoom, moving left to right and back through panels, and making selections.

There's a back button below the screen and an earpiece above the screen. Volume and photo capture keys are on the right side of the phone, a USB port is on the bottom, a headphone jack is on the top, the power button is on the top right corner, and the back of the phone has the flash and lens for the 8.0-megapixel camera/camcorder.

The Kin Two has a sleeker look and a larger screen than the Kin One. At 4.7 ounces, it's about 0.8 ounce heavier than the original, but most will appreciate the extra space, especially people that like to see things in a larger font. It may not turn heads, but that may be the idea.

Out of the box the Microsoft Kin Two comes with a battery, a USB power adapter, a micro-USB cable, a stereo headset, a quick start guide, a warranty guide and a product safety guide.

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