Storage

The addition of a 512 MB memory card to the V3i greatly increases its capability as a multimedia device and is one of the most critical improvements over the V3. With the limited 12.0 MB of internal memory, the memory card gives it sufficient space to store MP3s, high resolution photos, and videos.

Connectivity

Supporting Bluetooth v1.2 wireless technology, the V3i is able to connect with Bluetooth-compatible accessories within a 10 meter (30 foot) radius.

Able to connect with a variety of Bluetooth devices, the V3i supports Headset Profile (HSP) for wireless communication with popular Bluetooth headsets, Hands-Free Profile (HFP) for hands-free car kits, and even Dial-Up Networking (DUN) which allows users to connect to their laptops to go online. The iTunes media player can not be used with Bluetooth headphones.

The V3i does not offer infrared support but a USB cable is included for easy connection with a computer.

With Bluetooth capability and an included USB cable to help with music transfers, the V3i offers myriad connectivity options.

Conclusion

The Motorola RAZR V3 was a runaway success because of its thin profile but with other companies creating their own "thin" phones, the V3i needed substance to go with its slender build. Motorola added an impressive list of new and improved features to the V3i while also giving it an updated look.

Addressing the biggest weaknesses of the V3, Motorola equipped the V3i with a memory card slot, megapixel camera, quad-band service and an improved internal screen. Other unique features were added such as Airplane Mode to allow travelers to use the phone's many features while flying and SCREEN3 technology to give the phone scrolling news, sports, and weather updates. iTunes replaced the regular media player and will be popular with users as it provides simple song transfers and ease of use. The drawback of it, however, is restrictions on the number of songs the V3i can hold.

Meant to be a fun phone with plenty of entertainment options, the V3i has a variety of pre-installed games and also offers complete messaging options from email to multimedia and instant messaging. It also provides complete Bluetooth connectivity and advanced voice activation software.

The only area where the V3i comes up lacking is in network connection speed. Motorola elected not to make the V3i 3G or even EDGE capable. While most consumers may not be bothered by this, most of the V3i's competitors including the Samsung D807, which was released several months ago, at least offer EDGE connectivity.

The unique look of the RAZR was an important part of its success and with the V3i, Motorola needed to give it an updated look of its own. With a dark gunmetal gray exterior and a brushed texture that gives it a different appearance depending on the light conditions, the V3i has a distinctive appearance that will allow it to stand out in a RAZR saturated marketplace.

Maintaining its trademark ultra-thin profile while adding substance and an updated design, the Motorola RAZR V3i has met the high RAZR standard and looks to be a capable successor to the original V3.

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