Entertainment
Vertu was envisioned by the company's Creative Director and Designer
Frank Nuovo, who was also incidentally the head of design for Nokia since
1995. Vertu is a Nokia's wholly-owned subsidiary, thus the user interface
and menu structure is similar to standard Nokia products.
The Signature features basic applications such as Alarm Clock, Calculator,
Calendar, Converter, Media Player (with Equalizer), Notes, Synchronization,
To-Do List, Voice Recorder, and World Clock. Access to email accounts is
also possible through POP3, IMAP4, and SMTP protocols.
Not limited to preinstalled software, the Signature is built on J2ME
(Java 2 Micro Edition) technology. Allowing users to download and install
Java-based games and applications, consumers can transfer a wide range of
general programs through a PC (using the supplied data cable), or through
the web.
 But
arguably the main draw of the Vertu Signature is ironically what's not on
the phone. To acquire a Vertu is to acquire a long-term relationship, and
clients get a unique class of service, joining an exclusive community of
people around the world that can take advantage of the Vertu Concierge.
With the press of a button (on the left side), a global network of professionals
are available anytime, anywhere. Clients can request expert information
on travel and entertainment, get reservations to packed restaurants, and
preferred rates and access to emergency assistance.
No request is too outrageous. According to Frank Nuovo, the craziest
request thus far was to arrange a dinner with Queen Elizabeth. The Concierge
Service actually managed to round up a few tickets to an appearance of
hers that did include a dinner. All Vertu customers receive Concierge Service
during their first year, free of charge.
Aside from the dedicated Concierge Service, the Signature's interface
and software is very mediocre. Common applications found on standard Nokia
products. More myth and mystery than practical, the Concierge Service is
a great conversation topic at parties.
Internet
Upgrading the Signature to now include GPRS (General Packet Radio Service),
users can browse the web at speeds of up to 48 kbps. Through the supplied
data cable (COM Port), consumers can use the Signature as a modem for their
laptop. Able to not only browse the web, but also fax documents, the Signature
gives travelers the ability to conduct business on the road. Unfortunately
GPRS is not state-of-the-art. With many devices taking advantage of 3G broadband
connectivity, mobile technology has pushed transfer rates past 500 kbps
for streaming video and audio capabilities.
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