Internet

The W300i allows for HTTP internet browsing via Cingular's MEdia Net. The browser supports HTML 4.01, xHTML 1.0, CSS and Java script (ECMA script), and WAP 2.0. Through MEdia Net, users should be able to access convenient on-the-go web service. However, in order to use internet services, users may need to subscribe to a special service plan.

Users may begin their web browsing simply by typing in a URL or by choosing a site from bookmarks, their browsing history, or a preset MEdia Net homepage. As with a regular internet browser, users may refresh a web page or save pictures off of a site. Users may also save entire web pages or send a link to the current webpage via text message. Reading website text is made easier by Zoom and Full Screen tools. A feature allows for making calls during browsing, making it easy get back to a given webpage after hanging up. Secure browsing is supported, and certificates for secure internet services, such as banking, are available.

Using EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for GSM Evolution), Cingular's 3G broadband network, the W300i can transfer about two to three times faster than traditional networks, at up to 70 to 135 kbps. Cingular's EDGE network is currently expanded to over 13,000 U.S. cities and towns and more than 39,000 miles of U.S. highways. Reaching a population of nearly 253 million people and growing, international EDGE and GPRS roaming is also available in more than 80 countries.

The W300i features video streaming, a nice addition which allows users to download video files (usually in accordance with a subscription or some other fee). For example, Cingular offers subscriptions to MobiTV, which enables live television viewing on the phone. Data streaming can be expensive, however, so customers are urged to discuss special data-downloading plans with their sales representative upon signing up for service, or to examine the fine print on Cingular's website.

Storage

With a score of media files available on the W300i, storage is an important issue. The phone itself can store 20.0 MB worth of data, while a expandable memory in the form of a Memory Stick Micro picks up the slack. The expandable memory card must be purchased separately.

Connectivity

The W300i covers its bases in terms of connectivity with Bluetooth, infrared, and USB capabilities. With these various options, users should be able to transfer data, such as pictures, video, and music, between the phone and a computer with relative ease. These options also allow for connections between the phone and other devices, such as a headset.

The phone uses Bluetooth specification 2.0 with a number of profiles. A complete list of profiles is as follows: Basic Imaging Profile, Dial-up Networking Profile, File Transfer Profile, Generic Access Profile, Generic Object Exchange Profile, Handsfree Profile, Headset Profile, Human Interface Device (HID) Profile, Object Push Profile, Personal Area Network Profile, Serial Port Profile, Synchronization Profile, SyncML OBEX Binding Profile.

Bluetooth fans will recognize these profiles, though trying to understand the list may daunt a layperson. Most important to know is that these profiles are more than ample for average connectivity needs. With the W300i's Bluetooth capabilities, users may connect the phone to a handsfree auto kit, a headset, or a computer, amongst others.

Many phones have stopped offering infrared ports, so it's nice that the W300i includes one. As with Bluetooth, the infrared port can be used to exchange data with another device, usually another phone. Infrared ports communicate with other infrared ports, so the second device must also be so equipped.

A standard USB cable will not fit into the W300i's single cable port. However, with a special USB cable, the W300i can connect to a computer in order to transfer data. Some users may find this cable included with the phone, while some may find that they have to purchase it separately. Interested customers should ask their sales representative about the USB cable upon purchase of the phone.

With Bluetooth, infrared, and USB capabilities, the W300i offers plenty of ways to connect to other devices, most importantly to a computer, to which it can save data and from which it can upload files. Considering that the W300i is a media-oriented phone, this connectivity is a convenient way to make sure that users can do with their purchased and created media files as they please.

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