Mobile technology update
(CBS) - T-Mobile has been bragging that the new myTouch 4G Slide, which hit stores yesterday, is the most advanced camera ever available on a mobile phone. Does this new gadget live up to the hype?
The cons? At first glance, tech reporters said the quality of this $199.99 cell phone is iffy (sharp edges, slippery surfaces and all), plus some question its battery life. However, along with its Dual-Core Snapdragon Processor, nice user interface, the latest Android Gingerbread software and HTC Sense 3.0 - all pros - the myTouch 4G Slide really does take great photos.
When we surfed around for reviews, the overwhelming sentiment seemed to be: the camera on this mobile device trumps others on the market. Here's what tech reviewers said:
Gizmodo loves the camera phone
"The cameras in your average smartphone today are, by and large, pretty okay. But they're generally not good enough to replace a cheap point-and-shoot," according to Matt Buchanan. "If you're on T-Mobile and having a solid camera built into your phone is a serious priority, well, it's kind of a no-brainer - if you don't mind the added heft or Android, which could be two serious downers, depending on who you are."
Engadget says your mom won't be disappointed
"The myTouch 4G Slide is certainly a worthy contender in the race for best cameraphone, but it takes more than hardware and software wizardry to make 'the most advanced camera of any smartphone,'" explains Myriam Joire. "There's room for improvement in the display and keyboard departments, which don't quite live up to our standards. Ultimately though, none of this really matters -- the Slide is pleasant and easy to use, looks and feels great, and takes gorgeous pictures. As such, your mom won't be disappointed."
TechnoBuffalo doesn't hate the keyboard
"There are three things that are going to make you want to buy this phone: The keyboard, the camera and the fact that it is one of the latest and greatest. I was definitely impressed with the overall user experience of this phone and the camera really made me feel comfortable leaving my Canon point and shoot at home," says Jon Rettinger. "You will hate the keyboard if you never use it, because it adds bulk and weight."
The cons? At first glance, tech reporters said the quality of this $199.99 cell phone is iffy (sharp edges, slippery surfaces and all), plus some question its battery life. However, along with its Dual-Core Snapdragon Processor, nice user interface, the latest Android Gingerbread software and HTC Sense 3.0 - all pros - the myTouch 4G Slide really does take great photos.
When we surfed around for reviews, the overwhelming sentiment seemed to be: the camera on this mobile device trumps others on the market. Here's what tech reviewers said:
"The cameras in your average smartphone today are, by and large, pretty okay. But they're generally not good enough to replace a cheap point-and-shoot," according to Matt Buchanan. "If you're on T-Mobile and having a solid camera built into your phone is a serious priority, well, it's kind of a no-brainer - if you don't mind the added heft or Android, which could be two serious downers, depending on who you are."
Engadget says your mom won't be disappointed
"The myTouch 4G Slide is certainly a worthy contender in the race for best cameraphone, but it takes more than hardware and software wizardry to make 'the most advanced camera of any smartphone,'" explains Myriam Joire. "There's room for improvement in the display and keyboard departments, which don't quite live up to our standards. Ultimately though, none of this really matters -- the Slide is pleasant and easy to use, looks and feels great, and takes gorgeous pictures. As such, your mom won't be disappointed."
TechnoBuffalo doesn't hate the keyboard
"There are three things that are going to make you want to buy this phone: The keyboard, the camera and the fact that it is one of the latest and greatest. I was definitely impressed with the overall user experience of this phone and the camera really made me feel comfortable leaving my Canon point and shoot at home," says Jon Rettinger. "You will hate the keyboard if you never use it, because it adds bulk and weight."
