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As the backbone to Cingular Video, Cingular recently begun upgrading its networks from EDGE (Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution), a 2.5G standard, to UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), a 3G standard adopted my much of the world. Allowing users to transfer data at theoretical rates of 384 kbps, UMTS offers realistic rates of around 220-320 kbps, still a significant improvement over EDGE, which transfers at 70-135 kbps.

As an entirely new network based on CDMA technology, UMTS requires significant investment in infrastructure, contrary to EDGE which was merely a software upgrade from GSM. Thus UMTS (and Cingular Video) is only currently available in select markets (Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tacoma and Washington, D.C.), but will be rolled out to additional markets throughout the year.

While Cingular offers faster networks over competing GSM networks, unfortunately UMTS is still slower than EV-DO (Evolution-Data Optimized) technology from CDMA carriers such as Verizon Wireless and Sprint. With rates of 300-500 kbps, EV-DO currently offers the fastest transfer speeds from wireless carriers in North America.

Storage

Although the ZX10 has 50.0 MB of free memory for multimedia storage, necessary for music player and video streaming functionality, large files from high-quality photos, MP3s, and video clips fill it up quickly. Luckily the ZX10 has an expansion slot, capable of accepting TransFlash memory cards. Offering up to 512 MB per card, the removable storage allows users to not only store more multimedia, but also transfer them to and from the ZX10.

Connectivity

Located on the left side, the ZX10 has an infrared sensor to wirelessly transfer files. However the ZX10 lacks Bluetooth technology for wireless headsets. Commonly found on many devices nowadays, users will need to use a wired headset for handsfree access.

Conclusion

The Samsung ZX10 is a wonderful entertainment device for the road, integrating a 1.3-megapixel camera, MP3 player, and TransFlash memory card slot. But for professionals who need to stay connected away from the office, the ZX10 proves equally capable, offering quad-band GSM with UMTS dual-band support, email access, and real-time chat on the leading instant messaging clients.

Unfortunately the ZX10 has some weaknesses. The external screen on a flagship device is baffling, especially on a video phone where it should have strengths in LCD technology. The lack of Bluetooth is also downside considering wireless headsets are gaining popularity.

Regardless, the ZX10 is highlighted by Cingular Video. With strengths in imaging and connectivity, the ZX10 offers considerably faster transfer speeds over existing EDGE networks, a welcomed relief for many Cingular customers who have had to watch Verizon Wireless and Sprint launch similar services earlier.

But UMTS still falls behind EV-DO in terms of speed. Fortunately Cingular makes up for it with exceptional video quality from a wide range of channels, and exclusive content from popular providers like HBO.

For consumers who watch quick clips of information on the go, or those who need a fast device for data transfer, the ZX10 is a fine choice for consumers who prefer a clamshell design.

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