Nokia Reviews

When it comes to getting a mobile phone the biggest question is whether to get a contracted mobile phone or one that is pay as you go. Both have their drawbacks and their benefits. When it comes to contracts that go with mobile phones the main benefit is the lower cost. Since you are paying a monthly fee you don’t have to worry about your bill changing often. This is a great feature for someone who doesn’t want to handle the confusion of using pay as you go phones where the rates change depending on how often you use the phone.

Your price for the actual phone is also a lot less when you choose to go with contracted mobile phones. You will be able to save a lot of money and pay half or even get the phone free compared to the normal retail price for the phone you are looking at. If you are looking for a phone with lots of features such as a RIM Blackberry or an Apple Iphone, consider buying the phone under contract so that you can save money and still get the added features you wish to enjoy.

You also get more minutes. Instead of paying a lot of money for a low amount of minutes you can unlimited minutes for a small monthly fee. Because you can get unlimited minutes you can also get features such as unlimited text messages and also unlimited web is also offered with some phone plans.

With all these great benefits you would think there were no drawbacks to signing a contracted mobile phone plan. However, there is one main drawback of signing a contract for your mobile phone plan. It’s called credit. When it comes to contracts with mobile cellphone providers they require a credit check before you can become a member. If, for example, you have bad credit you can expect to pay a service fee that companies call a good faith fee. This fee can be anywhere from $100 to $500 and doesn’t go toward your bill at all instead it is normally held onto until either your contract has been filled and you’ve paid every month or it is held for 6 months to one year. If you can’t afford to pay that kind of fee than contracted mobile phone plans are out of your grasp.

Another draw back is that no matter how many minutes you use in one month you will always be charged the base fee, but if you go over you will be changed a higher rate that is normally 3 or 4 times the per minute price you are already paying.

Also, most contract phone plans have an early termination fee. If you choose to leave the service prior to the end of the contract term you may have to pay a fee. These fees can vary, so check your contract prior to signing it, but they are usually around $175.

Now that you know the pros and cons of getting a contract mobile phone it is best to look at your talking habits and decide it this is the best choice for you.

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If your Nokia phone can run the Ovi Maps program then they have a fantastic free add on for you.  You can download Nokia’s Own Voice to use with your maps for free.

You can download the latest version of Ovi Maps with the Own Voice add on at:

Free Own Voice

So what does this program do?  It allows you to record your own voice to give directions.  The next time that you get lost you can hear yourself tell you how to get home!  You can also let other people use your voice and you can use other people’s voices too.  It is kind of a neat idea that adds a bit of creativity to a simple navigation system.

The website has a slew of sample voice packs with different accents for you to use.  Some examples are Scottish, proper British, Australian and even Pirate.

For the price, this is hard to beat.  I would suggest a quick download to give this one a try.

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The Nokia 3390 ringtone composer is a slick little application that you can use to create original and unique ringtones for your phone. The composer can be found by following the following path on your phone:

• click on “menu”

• go to “Tones”

• select “Composer”

In order to create a new ringtone tap on “create a ringtone”. If you have used composer before you will see a previously created tune. If this is your first time then the screen will be blank.

You can start by either editing the existing ringtone or you can create a brand new one. Creating a new tone is relatively simple. Pressing a number on your keypad will correspond to a specific note.

Basic Tone                  Number on keypad

C                                        1

D                                        2

E                                        3

F                                        4

G                                        5

A                                        6

B                                        7

To insert a pause in between any tone, press 0. For example, if you wanted:

CCBGA AGDD CCB then you would type in 11756065220117

To make one note go on for a few counts, place the numerical equivalent between brackets and the note will hold for the amount of time. For example, if you want C to continue for 3 seconds, then you would press C(3).

The Nokia 3390 composer program also allows you to adjust the characteristics of each of the notes. You can lengthen or shorten each note by using the + and – signs. The default length of each tone is set to ¼. To determine the duration of any note look for the numerals that precede the note. For example, if you see 18b, this means that note b is held for 1/8.

In order to delete notes use the edit keys in the form of the cursor. The other keys are self explanatory.

After finishing your creation you can go to options and select what you want to do with your ringtone. Some functions include sending it to someone or altering the tempo.

Although the composer is relatively rudimentary, if you have the inclination, some talent and some time you can create unique and interesting custom ringtones for your phone.

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Nokia has just announced that they are issuing a recall on about 14 million mobile phone chargers. They claim that they could be dangerous and will replace them for free. Go to Nokia.com to learn how to exchange your charger for a new one.

The chargers in question have the Nokia name on them, but were manufactured by BYD Co., a Chinese battery and auto part maker. The potentially faulty chargers are models AC-3E, AC-3U and AC-4U. The 3E and 3U were manufactured between June 15 and Aug 9, 2009. The 4U was manufactured between April 13 and Oct 25, 2009. These chargers were sold in Europe and North America.

The default in the chargers stems from the possibility that the plastic covers might come loose and expose wiring, which could cause an electric shock if touched while plugged into an electrical socket. Luckily, this is a preventive measure and no injuries or accidents have been reported.

This is another example of shoddy products coming from China to the United States. Last year there was a problem with toothpaste, then drywall and now phone chargers. This seems to becoming a regular issue with Chinese made products. They are not the only ones with quality control problems, but I hope that they are able to get things under control. It seems like anytime you read about a mass recall of a product in the news that it originated in China. This is a very discouraging trend and one that I hope will not continue.

On the plus side, it is very encouraging to see Nokia take the initiative and initiate a recall before there are any accidents. More companies should take the high road and do what is right. What could have been a disaster for Nokia may end up looking like a good PR move. Nokia subcontracted the manufacture of the phone chargers to a (most likely) lowest bid Chinese company. They could have tried to pass the buck and blame there sub-contractor for any issues, but they are taking responsibility. This recall will probably end up costing Nokia millions of dollars. Hopefully, in the future they will keep a better eye on there products and there sub-contractors.

In the meantime, I am going to check my phone chargers and see if any of them are part of this recall. I would suggest you do the same!

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Mobile phones are produced by many companies all over the world. They come in many different shapes and styles from a multitude of various service providers. However, they can be broken down into three distinct categories: candy bar, flip and slider. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages which should be considered prior to purchasing.

Candy Bar phones

The “candy bar” or simply “bar” style of phone is one where what you see is what you get. The Apple Iphone and the Nokia 5310 are different examples of phones in the bar spectrum. The Iphone has a touch interface and the 5310 has a keypad, but they are both on the front surface of the phone. This style of phone requires some sort of a keypad lock so that you don’t accidentally call someone when the phone is in your pocket. This also creates the need to “unlock” the phone prior to using it.

Advantages:

1. Easy to use

2. large screens

3. thinnest style

4. lightweight

Disadvantages:

1. keypad lock

2. easily scratch the screen

Flip Phones

The flip phone is similar to a communicator from the classic Star Trek series. You must open it in order to use it. Don’t let the Star Trek reference dissuade you from looking at these phones. They are robust, full featured, hardy phones.

Advantages:

1. Sturdy – The outer casing protects the screens from scratches and fingerprints.

2. No keypad lock

3. Second screen – The second screen on the outside of the flip allows you to see the date and time without opening the phone. It also allows you to see a picture of who is calling without answering it.

4. Rugged – Flip phones are usually a little more rugged then other styles

Disadvantages:

1. Bulky – There ruggedness also makes them bulkier then other styles

2. Weight – They tend to weigh more then candy bar phones

3. Smaller screens

Slider Phones

The slider was developed to offer a keyboard to flip phones. They have a keyboard that flips, rotates or slides out from behind the screen. These phones are great for texting. The classic Sidekick is a prime example.

Advantages:

1. Keyboard – Great for texting

2. Stylish – the transformer action of the “slide” adds a cool feature

3. Features – These phones generally have more features then flip phones.

Disadvantages:

1. Bulkier then candy bar phones, but similar to flip phones

2. There is a chance that the slide function will malfunction over time.

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Ritzcamera.com is offering many T-Mobile phones at a steep discount. Everything is listed as clearance merchandise, limited quantites and while supplies last. They are also offering clearance on some Pentax and Just Wireless phones and accessories.

Although they are listed as clearance, many of these of phones are actually new. The killer here is the high shipping that they charge. Some of the good looking deals include:

T-Mobile Blackberry Pearl 8220 for $99.99 (+9.95 S/H)This is a new phone that originally sold for $350!

Motorola KRZR for $59.99 (+16.90 S/H)This is a hot silver flip phone that originally sold for $260

Nokia 5310 Purple for $89.99 (+16.90 S/H)This phone is a favorite here at Nokia-Review. It originally retailed for $200. This is also for a new phone.

Since this is a site specifically geared toward Nokia phones, here is a cheap T-Mobile To Go phone. Nokia 6800 for $24.99 (+9.95 S/H).  This is a new prepaid phone on clearance that had an original sticker price of $100.

These are just a couple of examples of some of the deals available. You can check out all of the clearance sales at:

Ritzcamera.com

They have many Nokia and other phones available.

Happy hunting!

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Nokia is releasing a laptop computer called the Nokia Booklet 3G. It will be available exclusively at Best Buy and it requires a wireless plan from AT&T. It will be available on October 22, 2009.

The Booklet 3G release will coincide with the release of Microsoft Windows 7 and run that operating system. It will run on an Intel Atom processor and promises 12 hours of battery life. It has a 10.1 inch HD screen and includes an HDMI port for HD video out. It weighs about 1 kg (2.2 lbs) and is approx 2 cm (13/16”) thick. Yes, this computer is less then an inch thick and weighs only 2 lbs! It is incredibly portable and will make a great companion on the road.

The Nokia Booklet 3G also has Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and it’s 3G/HSPA compatible for fast uploads and downloads.

It has a built in camera for video conferencing, onboard GPS with Ovi maps and a built in SD card reader.

Nokia is billing the Booklet 3G as a “mini computer” and not a netbook. They tout that although its form factor is small like a netbook, it will perform more like a standard laptop PC. They are counting on the new Windows 7 to help in this aspect. Microsoft is saying that Windows 7 will perform admirably on computers with the Atom processor. Microsoft’s current operating system, Windows Vista does not perform well. The Booklet 3G will certainly test Microsoft’s claims and push the limits of the Atom processor.

The computer will have a retail price of $599 and be available exclusively at Best Buy through the end of the year (the holiday selling season). If you sign up with AT&T for two years and include a data plan, then you can purchase it for $299. A data plan will start at about $60 per month.

It is nice to see a carrier subsidy on this computer. At a price of $300 this looks like a very hot deal. You get a netbook like computer for a good price with the ability to access the internet from Wi-Fi or the 3G network. Despite Nokia’s claims to the contrary, any computer with an Atom processor should be classified as a netbook. However, hopefully with the addition of Windows 7 it won’t feel like one!

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I thought that it might be useful to list some additional codes for Nokia phones.  Type in each code exactly as it is shown including the ## symbols.  After typing it in press send or call.

On the main screen type in:
#06# – This check the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity).
#7780# – This will reset the phone to original factory settings.
#67705646# – This will clear the LCD display(operator logo).
#0000# – To view software version.
#2820# – Bluetooth device address.
#746025625# – Sim clock allowed status.
#pw+1234567890+1# – Shows if sim card has restrictions.
#92702689# – This code will take you to a secret menu where you may find some of the following:
1. Displays Serial Number.
2. Displays the Month and Year of Manufacture
3. Displays (if there) the date where the phone was purchased (MMYY)
4. Displays the date of the last repair – if found (0000)
5. Shows life timer of phone (time passes since last start)
#3370# – Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR) activation.  This will provide increased signal strength and  better signal reception. It will also help if you want to use GPRS and the service is not responding or is too slow.  The drawback is the phone battery will drain faster.

#3370* – (EFR) deactivation. The phone will automatically restart. Increase battery life by 30% because phone receives less signal from network.
#4720# – Half Rate Codec activation.
#4720* – Half Rate Codec deactivation. The phone will automatically restart

Nokia Wallet
#7370925538# – This code will reset and erase all data in your Nokia S60 Nokia Wallet.  The phone will ask for your lock code.  The default lock code is 12345.

#3925538# – This code will delete everything in you wallet.

Unlock service provider
- Insert sim, turn phone on and press vol up(arrow keys) for 3 seconds, should say pin code. Press C,then press * message should flash, press * again and 04*pin*pin*pin#
#7328748263373738# – This code will reset your security code.
Default security code is 12345

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As an addition to the previous post about the Nokia 3711 I have a few additional pictures of the phone. Are you interested in this phone? Please leave a comment.

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T-Mobile has announced the availability of a couple of new phones for the 2009 holiday season. Among them is a simple handset from Nokia. The Nokia 3711 appears to be a basic and standard flip phone. Pricing will be available shortly, but based on its appearance and feature set it appears to be an entry level phone.

The world needs good entry level phones though. Not everyone can afford an Iphone or Blackberry and not everyone needs to carry a mini supercomputer in their pocket!

The Nokia 3711 is a slick looking flip phone that comes in a sable finish.

Features:
1. Unique hidden until lit external display

This is kind of a neat idea. Basically, when you look at the outside of the Nokia 3711 you will not see anything. When you press a button or someone calls, then it will light up and display something. I think that this will look cool, but ultimately people want to be able to glance at there phone and see what time it is without pressing a button or opening the flip. Time will tell how well this feature is received.

2. The phone has built in GPS for use with NokiaMaps.

I am not alone in getting lost all the time, so built in GPS is always welcome.

3. Two megapixel camera with video capture.

This is becoming standard on modern handsets.  The addition of video capture to still pictures is a nice feature.  We will have to wait and see on the quality, but for fun, spur of the moment activities it should do nicely.

4. Stereo Bluetooth

One of the most under untilized features of mobile phones is bluetooth capability.  Adding stereo is a nice touch.

5. The Nokia 3711 is a Series 40 phone.

Nice to see Nokia still producing S40 phones!

6. The phone also can connect to the web with T-Mobile web2go and it supports 3G.

7. It offers email and instant messaging.

This is a given in a modern cell phone, but worth mentioning.

We will have to wait and find out the price before jumping to any conclusions, but overall this is a nice looking phone that will make someone’s holiday a bit more merry!

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