Storage

Storing photos from a 2.0-megapixel camera and downloading VCAST videos take quite a bit of memory. Fortunately, the Samsung A970 comes with a whopping 60 MB of storage.

Dynamically shared among photos, ringtones, videos, games and applications, and general multimedia, should users manage to run out of space, an expansion card slot on the left accepts TransFlash media. Needed to run the MP3 player, current cards hold up to 512 MB in size.

Connectivity

Connecting with accessories within a 10 meter radius, the A970 supports Bluetooth wireless technology, offering connectivity with headset and handsfree profiles.

Unfortunately the phone does not support Bluetooth OBEX (Object Exchange) profiles. As a set of protocols allowing files to be exchanged through Bluetooth, Verizon Wireless has disabled transfer capabilities. However, multimedia is conveniently accessible through the fee-based Get It Now service.

Conclusion

The Samsung A970 is a groundbreaking device. Through innovative and unorthodox lens positioning, optical zoom capabilities were able to be included, features limited by the lack of space for moving optics.

Needless to say, the A970 is the ultimate camera phone, being the first introduced in the U.S. breaking the 2.0-megapixel barrier. Including a plethora of color effects, filters, and functions, for those who want to leave the digital camera at home, the A970 is a good choice.

But the A970 isn't just a camera phone. Including an MP3 player, VCAST video service, and Bluetooth functionality, the A970 is a formidable all-in-one multimedia device. Perhaps crippled from the disabled OBEX Bluetooth, overall the A970 is well-rounded.

Unfortunately the A970 runs on Verizon Wireless' standard user interface. Lacking and unimpressive, the original Samsung interface would have added better functionality and a more attractive menu structure.

As with many Verizon Wireless devices, it seem the A970 only comes with half the features out of the box. To get the other half requires additional fees and charges. VCAST requires a subscription, and downloading 3D games and applications, and wallpapers and ringtones require a fee. For those who get tired easily, these little items can add up quickly.

Currently running about $300 with a service plan, the A970 isn't for everyone. Seemingly best suited for the consumer without a digital camera and want to get an inclusive device, the A970 is quite pricey. Regardless, the most advanced optics to date comes at a premium. And for those which price is not an option, the A970 is currently one of the best camera phones on the market.

< Prev Next >

This article is Copyright 2002-2009 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.