Internet

The 7200 has a variety of ways to browse the internet including high-speed data access using EDGE. EDGE, or Enhanced Data rate for GSM Evolution, allows for high speed rates of up to 177.6 kbps on existing GSM networks. Often times called 2.7G, EDGE has been referred to as a bridge between current GSM technology and WCDMA and cdma2000.

The migration of GSM to EDGE results in less strain on current voice traffic bandwidth and allows for higher transfer rates. Building on existing technology, EDGE allows for more than double existing GPRS rates. While theoretically the 7200 could transfer at speeds of up to 384 kbps, Nokia has decided to limit it to 177.6 kbps. Actual rates will be less than that.

However if EDGE is unavailable, the 7200 also has GPRS capabilities with transfer rates of up to 57.5 kbps. Also an option is HSCSD (High-Speed Circuit-Switched Data), which offers maximum transfer rates of up to 43.2 kbps.

With all this speed, the internet becomes much faster. And the 7200 has WAP 2.0 with xHTML functionality over a HTTP / TCP / IP stack for a better browsing experience. Almost all web pages will now be able to be viewed on the phone, whereas previous phones were limited by certain web restrictions and could not be viewed.

Storage

The phonebook capacity can store up to 500 contacts, while SMS, MMS, email, and notes have a maximum file size limits.

The amount of shared memory available to applications is up to 4 MB, but will depend on the number of images and applications loaded on a given device.

The following features in this phone may share memory: Phonebook, text and multimedia messages, images, video clips and ringing tones, WAP bookmarks, calendar, to-do-notes, and Java games and applications.

Connectivity

Connecting the 7200 shouldn't be a problem. Multimedia can be downloaded to the device by USB, infrared link, or over the air (OTA), but they must fit within device memory constraints. While backgrounds and ring tones shouldn't hit the restrictions, MIDlet suites are limited to up to 64 KB in size.

The Pop-port is Nokia's own innovation. It can automatically identify accessories attached to the 7200. And also offers stereo sound with the use of headphone with the FM radio. Lastly, its also where you can charge your accessories with a single USB cable without the use of separate power sources. Pop-port transmits up to 230 kbps.

Perhaps the only thing the phone lacks in terms of connectivity is Bluetooth capabilities. For most this shouldn't be a problem since there are so many other ways connecting devices. But if you've grown accustomed to using a Bluetooth headset, the the 7200 will be a bit of a disappointment.

For synchronizing between the 7200 and a PC, the phone is also SyncML compatible. SyncML is the common language for synchronizing all devices and applications over any network. With SyncML any personal information, such as email, calendars, to-do lists, contact information and other relevant data, will be consistent, accessible and up to date, no matter where the information is stored.

Conclusion

The Nokia 7200 stands to be one of the most popular phones when released. Partly due to Nokia's attention to aesthetics, making the 7200 look like a work of art rather than a phone. But without losing the functionality and usefulness of a portable device. It is a phone with many unique and state-of-the-art features. And upgrading old components that were already popular on older models. The appeal of the 7200 is sure to be wide, as it has beauty as well as brains. Hopefully Nokia will release a North American model soon. Nokia has announced that the 7200 should be available for purchase sometime in first quarter of 2004.

< Prev Next >

This article is Copyright 2002-2008 Mobiledia Corp. and the review in part or in whole may NOT be reproduced in any electronic or printed medium without prior permission from Mobiledia. For information on reproducing any part of this review (or any images) please contact us.