Storage
 The
Samsung A990 includes an ample 72.0 MB of internal memory, dynamically shared
among stored multimedia. For photos, ringtones, and applications, storage
space is plentiful, but for more memory-intensive applications such as music
tracks and recorded video, free space may not be enough.
Luckily the A990 offers a microSD / TransFlash expansion card slot. Able
to insert memory cards up to 2 GB in size, the removable memory offers virtually
limitless capacity to fully utilize audio and imaging features.
Connectivity
The A990 supports Bluetooth wireless technology, allowing consumers connect
a wide range of peripherals within a 10 meter (30 foot) radius. Depending
on the various Bluetooth protocols supported, users can pair with different
types of devices.
Through Headset Profile (HSP), popular Bluetooth headsets allow users
to communicate wirelessly; probably the most commonly used profile. Pairing
with handsfree car kits, Handsfree Profile (HFP) is supported as more laws
are banning mobile phones while driving. Serial Port Profile (SPP) emulates
a serial port, providing simple integration for existing applications such
as sending faxes. And Dial-Up Networking (DUN) Profile lets users connect
their laptops to go online over Bluetooth, accessed from a laptop by dialing
up on a cell phone. Lastly Basic Print Profile (BPP) connects the A990 to
Bluetooth-compatible printers, to make prints directly without the need
of a PC.
While a good number of profiles are supported, Object Push Profile (OPP)
and Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) are noticeably missing. OPP
would have let users transfer multimedia to and from a PC, however Verizon
Wireless has been notorious for disabling multimedia transfer, conveniently
integrating paid multimedia services within the A990's menu. As a relatively
new profile, A2DP would have let consumers use Bluetooth stereo headphones
to enjoy music wirelessly.
For the most part, all the familiar protocols are present. While OPP
and A2DP would have been nice, for most consumers HSP and HFP are most important.
Conclusion
Samsung left little doubt as to the focus of the A990. While other devices
pose as camera phones, the A990 blows them all away. With a high-powered
3.2-megapixel lens supported by a plethora of robust filters and functions,
consumers may just forget their holding a cell phone. The horizontal layout
during Camera Mode mimics digital camera usability, with Zoom and Option
buttons positioned on top for optimal usability.
However, problems with basic features hinder functionality. The Verizon-branded
menu structure and interface is less than desirable and a bit too simplistic,
and battery power drains rather quickly. The newer Flash-based UI and less
LCD power consumption would have been preferred.
Aside from a few gripes on fundamental issues, the A990 is a well-rounded
multimedia device. The integrated MP3 Player, while lacking equalizer functions,
provides hours of music listening enjoyment on removable memory cards. Integrated
with EV-DO high-speed connectivity, Verizon Wireless' VCAST Video and Music
services let users access multimedia instantly from anywhere on the road.
The biggest drawback will probably be its price. Costing over $250 with
a service plan, the A990 is definitely not cheap; more expensive than other
regular handhelds and even approaching the price of high-end PDA and smartphones.
But for consumers looking to find the ultimate camera phone as a digital
camera replacement, there's no better device than the A990.
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