Introduction

In the market of cell phones, few designs have been as functional and efficient as the clamshell. Able to fit a decent sized screen with a relatively large surface area, they optimize the tradeoff between robust multimedia and compact design. It's no wonder flip phones are North American favorites.

With the introduction of the Samsung A970, heads may turn; figuratively and literally. Building upon the standard flip design, the A970 adds a "twist," giving it a new perspective to common characteristics.

With a wide array of features including a 2.0-megapixel camera with optical zoom, VCAST video service, and MP3 capabilities, the A970 is a multimedia workhorse also supporting certain Bluetooth profiles to give busy consumers the ability to multitask and work on the go.

Available through Verizon Wireless, a new generation of multimedia phones will be ushered in with the Samsung A970. Unlike previous devices with strengths in imaging, audio, or connectivity, the A970 combines all three, allowing users the convenience of having a digital camera, MP3 player, or mobile entertainment center at just an arms length away.

Design

Folded, the Samsung A970 looks like any other ordinary device. Measuring 95 x 51 x 25 mm, and weighing 144 g, the A970 is a bit on the bulky side, but average nonetheless. Having a metallic exterior, the conservative design is a good fit for professionals.

Featuring a 96 x 96 px external LCD, users can quickly glance at basic information in 65K-colors. Equipped with a built-in MP3 player, convenient Rewind, Play / Pause, Stop, and Fast Forward keys on the front panel allow users to control playing capabilities without having to ever open the phone. Through dual stereo speakers on the bottom corners below, users can experience music through an open air environment or speakerphone functionality; activated by pressing the Speaker Mode Key on the right side.

Located nearby, an Option Key provides additional functions dependant on mode, similar to Smart Keys on other devices. For instance, when Camera Mode is active, pressing the button will bring up additional settings. On the left side, a headset jack provides personal music listening and safe and convenient handsfree conversations, while a TransFlash card slot offers additional storage for multimedia.

The A970 is cumbersome to open one-handed, due to its design, stopping at 90 degrees before opening completely. However once opened, the main 262K-color LCD is revealed. Standard 5-way navigational and numeric keypads provide fairly sizable for comfortable typing through T9 predictive text.

Contrary to most camera phones, the Samsung A970's lens is found neither on the front cover, nor the back plate, but on the left end of the hinge. Positioned to provide 2x optical zoom, rather than digital, an innovative twist design turns the A970 into a camcorder-like 2.0-megapixel camera.

Out of the box, the Samsung A970 comes with a standard 1000 mAh Li-Ion battery, home charger, and user manual.

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