Messaging

Rather than the more popular T9 predictive text input, the Motorola MPx220 uses iTAP. While essentially similar, small nuances may turn T9 loyalists away. For true multimedia capabilities, the MPx220 also supports MMS (Multimedia Message Service); allowing users can attach photos and video taken with the built-in camera, sound, and time-based sequencing.

Users can chat with friends and family by logging onto MSN Messenger. Similar to the desktop version, users can now contact their buddy list from anywhere in the world. For convenience, "My Text" allows a library of words to be added, so frequently used phrases can be sent with a single tap.

Entertainment

Powered by Windows Mobile 2003 SE, the MPx220 comes preinstalled with a suite of familiar features. A wide range of software allow consumers to access PIM (Personal Information Management) and email functionality through Outlook, surf the web through Pocket Internet Explorer, listen to music and play video with Windows Media Player 9, and connect with friends and family with MSN Messenger.

"Pocket" versions of the recognizable Windows desktop-based programs offer familiar access and synchronicity to productive tools including Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Outlook, and Windows Media Player. Other applications include ActiveSync, Calculator, Calendar, Contacts, Games, Java MIDlet Manager, Messaging, Tasks, and Voice Notes. A file viewer for Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint documents are included.

Store and find addresses, phone numbers, and other personal contact information through Contacts. Or for the sake of convenience, enter them with a keyboard on a PC and synchronize the MPx220 with Microsoft Outlook.

Use the Calendar and To-Do List to organize busy lives; synchronizing meeting requests and task lists with Outlook via ActiveSync or beaming appointments from one device to another via infrared. Or glance at the day's schedule for the entire month, week, or day, or mark a task complete; all at the touch of a button.

Two preinstalled games come on the MPx220: Jawbreaker, and Solitaire. Jawbreaker is a puzzle game where the object is to clear out all the balls on the screen, while Solitaire needs no explanation.

However if users tire of those games, the MPx220 also supports Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME); allowing users to download and install Java games and applications. Being the most popular platform for Java MIDlets, there are an abundance of applications and games already out on the market. Skipping Stones and Billiards comes preinstalled on the MPx220.

Multiple POP3, IMAP4, and SMTP accounts are supported for email configuration with third-party servers. Pocket Outlook is included as well, allowing users to synchronize through ActiveSync with desktop email. Additionally, users of Microsoft Exchange or Microsoft Mobile Information Server can easily access information remotely as well.

The MPx220 supports voice recognition software as well. VoiceSignal software provides speaker-independent voice command functionality, all without speech training. Users can launch programs, dial numbers, and lookup contacts by using just their voice. Unfortunately, VoiceSignal only works well in quiet environments, so it is more of a novelty than practical application.

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