Storage

Storing photos and video from the 1.3-megapixel camera takes a considerable amount of space, and the Samsung A950 comes with approximately 24.5 MB of internal memory. Dynamically shared among images, ringtones, and games and applications, it's more than enough for the average user.

However, consumers won't be able to store songs on the A950, but instead need a memory card to activate the MP3 player. Inserted through the expansion slot on the right side, TransFlash cards are currently manufactured to store up to 512 MB, more than enough to store hundreds of songs for hours of music.

Connectivity

For consumers to transfer their own music to the A950, an additional "Music Essentials Kit" (USB cable with Windows-compatible software) is required to convert files into a special format playable on the A950. Costing about $30, customers can connect to a PC and use Windows Media Player to transfer songs rather than purchasing music through VCAST.

Supporting Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free connectivity with headset profiles, the A950 can pair and synchronize with devices within a 10 meter radius. Although somewhat restrictive, it is limited to reduce the chances of interference between its peripheral devices and those belonging to other people nearby.

Unfortunately the Samsung A950 is disabled for OBEX (Object Exchange) profile support, so users won't be able to transfer files from a PC. Notorious for limiting Bluetooth functionality, Verizon Wireless devices usually have OBEX disabled, while providing convenient access to its Get It Now service.

Conclusion

The Samsung A950 is different from most phones on the market. From afar, the sight of its bright red shell frightens most conservative consumers away. But should users get close enough they'll realize it's a very capable device with a long list of multimedia features packed beneath its flamboyant exterior.

The A950 was built with MP3 playing capabilities in mind. And the design of the front cover provides convenient access to music controls. Although the plastic scroll wheel feels somewhat substandard, its innovative design and functionality allows quick scrolling through playlists.

Using EV-DO broadband connectivity, users are able to watch television on the large internal screen. Storing photos, music, videos, and games and applications on TransFlash memory cards, Samsung ensured the A950 had ample amounts of storage.

But arguably the A950's most significant drawback is its costs. To use the A950 to its full capacity, consumers are required to subscribe to Verizon Wireless' services. Features such as EV-DO, VCAST, and 3D Gaming, not to mention wallpaper and ringtone downloads are all tied to Verizon subscriptions in one way or another.

Colorful and flashy, the A950 doesn't have the refined professional look many consumers desire, instead evoking a playful and fun characteristic. Additionally, at this point red is the only color available, so consumers who think the A950 may be a bit feminine may be out of luck.

Additionally Verizon Wireless has Bluetooth OBEX disabled. A common gripe among customers, unfortunately consumers will need to pay a fee to customize the A950, downloading wallpapers and ringtones through Verizon's Get It Now service.

But with the few shortcomings, the A950 is a wonderful multimedia-enhanced device. With the 1.3-megapixel camera, the A950 gives users an unusually high degree of control over photos. Functions commonly found on standalone digital camera, such as ISO settings and metering, are included on the A950; items lacking on most camera phones on the market today.

Including preinstalled chat applications, consumers always just a few key presses from friends and family. While most devices use SMS-based chat programs, the A950 actually provides instant access so users can have conversations in real-time.

Should users want a device primarily for taking photos, watching videos, or text messaging, there are better devices which cater to those specific consumers. But for a fun phone that plays music, the A950 is one of the best, with convenient exterior controls, dual stereo speakers for a loud music experience, and an expansion slot for plenty of memory to store songs.

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