Funky Fone Frolics (Nokia 7650)

Member Name: unknowncitizen

Product:	Nokia 7650
Date:	18/06/03 (196 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Solid standard phone features, Upgradeable software via Bluetooth, Good quality camera

Disadvantages: Size too big for some, Occasional crashes, Questionable battery life

The Nokia 7650 comes direct from the latest crop of photo cameras aimed at the typical non-business customer. It is decidedly bigger than its rival, the 3650, clocking in at around 11cm long and 3cm thick. However, its looks ensure that this is not a mobile to be ashamed of; it has a certain charm and unique quality bereft form other similarly designed Nokia phones. Indeed, from the outset it looks a lot like a PDA, featuring a large and clear screen, a small joystick and only three buttons. All fears of a fiddly touch screen style interface are quickly forgotten though with a keypad that slides down, as immortalised in the film "The Matrix". Of course, this further adds to the phone's size, with it drawing comparisons to the dimensions of a regular house phone, but as this is only applicable when in use, it is not really an issue.

The traditional phone functions are performed well, providing a clear line to both landlines and mobile numbers. The industry appears to have entered a state whereby in regards to these features, no further improvements can be made without a significant change in technology. This is not to criticise the phone, as it performed as well as everything else and I found no problems with its use. As though to make up for the lack of Bluetooth headphone interaction, the phone also has a speakerphone option. With this the call is projected louder into room, and the microphone picks up more distant sounds. The speaker performs somewhat disappointingly here. In a driving situation, the roar of the engine seems to dull out the voices from the phone (though it may just be my dodgy Metro!). On the positive side, the microphone is exceptionally good and finally makes those tasks such as using the phone whilst playing Playstation or reading the paper on the loo a reality. The reception performed pleasingly well, succeeding in gaining a strong signal even in relatively remote places (the test network was Orange). The batte
ry life however, is another issue entirely. The standby time is good, meeting most people's needs at 230 hours. Unfortunately, the talktime runs at only 3-5 hours, in my experience heading firmly to the former of that figure. This may be inadequate for individuals who will be phoning a lot without being able to recharge the battery. Also, just using the phone to play games, take photos or any of its other features (which, being such a fun phone is quite often!) drains the battery, though not quite as vigorously as when making a phone call.

The user interface is very well designed. The aforementioned joystick navigates the menus whilst the two main buttons either accept or deny a choice. The keypad can be slid down when extra keys are required, but most options and programs can be operated without its need. There is also a separate button with the sole purpose of taking the user to the main menu. This leaves any previously running programs still operating making it possible, for instance, to leave a game mid-play to write a text message. This multi tasking ability is a function that eventually gets taken for granted, a shock when reverting back to another phone.

The built in digital camera is obviously one of the main selling points of the phone and it is reassuring to know it performs very well. Taken at 640 x 480 resolution at 0.37 megabit resolution it may not sound particularly impressive, and it will certainly never replace your standard camera, digital or otherwise. The photos though, are of surprisingly good quality considering the limitations even when uploaded onto a PC. It is most useful as a camera that you have with you all the time, so no matter what, you're always prepared to capture the moment, particularly useful for piecing together 'the night before'. Next time somebody gets seven-balled in the pub at pool you can be confident that you'll be there taking photos of their naked body hurtling
round the table (for those of you not aware of this rule, be sure to employ it should you ever pot all your balls before your opponent sinks a single one).

Arguably the phone's secondary function is as a lightweight PDA. Basic functions such as appointment tracking and note making are available, but anyone expecting anything more comprehensive will be disappointed. That said, the upgradeable software could conceivably enhance these features.

The other major selling point of the phone is the Bluetooth capability, with it being able to run certain java and C++ programs. Images, games, tunes, programs and data can be transferred to and from a Bluetooth enabled PC (requires the purchase of a £30ish Bluetooth adapter if not built into the motherboard). There is a large quantity of free software available to download from the Internet for the phone; currently I have my 7650 controlling winamp ensuring I never have to leave my bed to change a track. This effectively renders the phone relatively future-proof as new software will continue to upgrade its features. Recently, a video capture program emerged, allowing short video clips to be filmed.

The total memory available to the phone is a non-upgradeable 4MB, which considering its potential is a little disappointing (the Doom port alone takes up almost 2MB). This 4MB can store up to 99 640x480 images, but this assumes nothing extra at all is on the phone. For those who want lots of programs, games, tunes and images, frequent trips to the PC will be in order. As the memory fills, crashing becomes more frequent often requiring the phone to be rebooted.

The standard software built into the phone is very much standard fare, besides the PDA programs. It includes a composer, wap browser, games, calendar and to-do list. The PC software to connect to the phone, after a fiddly start, is straightforward to use and allows transfer of files and backing up o
f data.

Overall, I would strongly recommend this phone. As prices vary so much with different contracts and deals, I cannot give a definitive value for money rating. Rest assured, if you see a good deal, you'll be getting a good solid phone and camera that will see you through for many years to come.

Summary: