Introduction

Sanyo's high-end phone debut in the US comes in the form of its M1 model, an impressive multi-media powerhouse that forgoes weight or design concerns. A bit bigger than others on the market (3.6" x 1.9" x 0.9"), the phone offers users several customization options, which are sometimes confusing to find and use. Once conquered though, the phone shines with state-of-the-art audio and visual options, further enhanced by access to the service provider's Power Vision network. A special menu function allows users to program their most used menu options into one easy-to-use list.

The built-in 1 GB of memory compensates well for the phone's lack of an additional memory slot. The digital dual band (800 / 1900 MHz) phone also features advanced power management which is particularly useful for users-on-the-go. It allows for up to 16 to 18 hours of music playing, however the constant shut down proves frustrating as the screen goes dark after a couple of seconds. In trying to restart the phone, a disorienting series of button presses is necessary. The phone's power saving options are truly its best design and thoughtful elements. When connected through a USB cable to a PC, the phone also recharges, which is a definite plus for travelers.

The M1 can easily be used in a walkie-talkie style with Sprint's push-to-talk service ReadyLink and external external dual 15 mm stereo speakers for stereo music playback and speakerphone help greatly with sound.

Design

The M1's basic black design with silver lining proves functional, although the boxy flip phone won't be earning any aesthetic contests just yet. Still, the built-in 1 GB of memory compensates the phone's extra weight; It weighs 3.8 oz.

Where a clamshell design usually fails is in the constant flipping and scrolling through menus users are put to task for. However, the M1 has a convenient set of external buttons on its front and sides that help avoid such a problem. The left hand side has a headphone jack with a conveniently attached plastic cover, voice recorder button and ringer volume control. The right hand side features a one-touch button that leads to the voice command menu as well as a one-touch camera button.

The M1 is shorter than most, which makes it easy to fit into the palms of non-giants and their pockets. The camera's classic location on the back is acceptable, although useless when one attempts to use the camera's timer. The front has a convenient, circular navigation pad that is almost like a raised iPod control system. It's perfectly designed for when the phone switches into audio mode.

The only tricky part of the design is its internal antenna, which users have to make sure to be careful about blocking. When holding the phone naturally, users might have difficulty avoiding the phone's no-no zone, which is unintelligently placed next to the camera's lens.

Out of the box, the Sanyo M1 comes with a standard 1000 mAh Li-Ion Battery, Travel Charger, USB Cable, Stereo Headset with Earbuds (3.5 mm plug), Mic Adapter (3.5 mm jack to 2.5 mm plug), Headset Adapter, AC Travel Charger, and User Manual.

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