Basic Features

The dual-band A990 (CDMA 800 / 1900 MHz) operates on Verizon Wireless' nationwide digital network. However, lacking analog support, customers in rural areas may want to double check digital coverage.

Using a preconfigured Verizon-branded menu, the A990's user interface is overly simplistic. Not packaged with the new Flash-based UI, unfortunately customizations to the menu structure are not possible. While ideal for users who prefer a simple easy-to-use menu, advanced functions are absent.

Miscellaneous features include Standalone Mode (RF Off) for operation in environments where radio frequencies may interfere such as airplanes or hospitals, TTY support, and English and Spanish language options.

Samsung rated the A990's 1000 mAh Li-Ion battery at 4.10 and 315 hours (13.1 days) of talk and standby times respectively. However, these times are under optimal conditions. Realistically the A990 lasts much less, requiring some users to have to charge the phone every few days depending on usage habits. While more power storage would have been better, turning off Bluetooth and extra function can save some battery life, but actual times will vary.

Screen

For outstanding camera functionality, an equally impressive screen is required. And fortunately the A990 delivers with dual color LCDs.

The external 65K-color 128 x 96 px screen is divided into two parts with the upper half displaying signal and battery strength, time, date, and incoming calls, and the bottom part illuminating to display the wallpaper and music menu. Manufactured from TFT (Thin Film Transistor) LCD technology, the screen needs to be backlit to be clearly viewable, consuming more power over than traditional displays. More vivid when lit, the screen is crisp in indoor environments, but can still be quite difficult to read in direct sunlight.

The internal screen is even more vibrant. Offering a state-of-the-art 262K-color canvas, the 320 x 240 px display is one of the largest and most colorful LCDs for non-PDA mobile devices. Ideal for camera usage as a viewfinder or watching streaming videos, the versatile screen offers superior clarity over competing devices.

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