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(More customer reviews)Windows Phone 7 came along with just enough fanfare to catch people's attention. Even with the ill-fated Kin on their recent record, Microsoft managed to raise some excitement and anticipation for their latest foray into handheld computing. And this time, it met and exceeded all expectations.
There were several smart things Microsoft did with Windows Phone. One, they moved as far away from Windows Mobile 6.5 as possible. Windows Phone is a new breed, and has none of the ponderous weight of that operating system. Next, they satisfied their small but loyal handheld fanbase by, essentially, creating the Zune Phone we asked for. Also, they managed to cleverly elude all of the (ignorant) ridicule the Zune brand of electronics has endured by not labeling the device as such. But, as those who've played with the amazingly simple and sexy interface of the Zune HD recognize, this phone's workings are essentially the same, albeit matured and expanded upon. Then, Microsoft successfully implemented what is arguably their best project aside from the computer OS, Xbox Live. Another sure way to gain followers, putting some of the Xbox 360 experience in our pockets, at last!
The other elements of Windows Phone are equally impressive. A mobile version of Office comes with the phone. Whatever your preferred email provider is, it'll interface fully with the phone (I use Gmail). Responsiveness and reliability are a joy. Every aspect of the phone shows careful attention to detail, a great sense of artistry, and a mature understanding of what a mobile device should be.
I went into an AT&T store to check out the available hardware. I was a bit disappointed that Microsoft opted to contract out their hardware instead of going the proprietary route, a la Apple, simply because the Zune HD hardware is so good. But these phones are still impressive. I chose the LG model for its materials and finish, which I found to be the best of the three. The Samsung, while attractive, was simply not on par with the solid, quality finish of the LG, and the HTC's slide-out speaker seemed a little too gimmicky for me. The Quantum's keyboard wasn't strictly a requirement, since the onscreen keyboard is quite good. But it is a bit easier for my fingers, and is very high quality and solid feeling. The 16GB capacity also made it easy to bring all my media from a Zune to the phone, which is now my main device. The LG phone also offers a Play To feature, which is essentially a Windows Media Center extension, allows you to stream media to your Xbox 360 via a wireless home network. Microsoft has included a free game, Ilomilo, which has undeniable charm, and is strongly reminiscent of the excellent original artwork that Zune Originals offers for their custom players. It's a joy to behold.
I can't recommend this phone highly enough. Finally, an alternative to the iCulture not only exists, but harnesses the power of some of the biggest and best established media and productivity entities around. not only that, but the whole experience is pure art, and some of the best work Microsoft has ever produced. The only thing better than this? The sound of an achievement unlocking right there in the palm of your hand :)
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LG Quantum Windows Phone (AT&T)Designed for work, play, and everything in between, the LG Quantum is one of the world's first smartphones using the Windows Phone 7 operating system. It gives you the productivity of Office Mobile and Bing, plus the fun of Xbox LIVE and Zune. With a slide-out keyboard for quick use of Office Mobile, you can stay active and up to date with work. The LG Quantum also features DLNA technology through a preloaded application called "Play To," which allows you to wirelessly stream videos, music, and pictures from the phone to a DLNA-enabled TV, stereo, Windows 7 PC, and other consumer electronics devices.
Enabled for use on AT&T's lightning quick HSPA network, you'll be able to easily access the Internet as well as quickly download video, music and more. Additionally, with AT&T's network, you can make a call while simultaneously receiving picture/text messages and e-mail, or viewing Web pages. This GPS-enabled phone can access the AT&T Navigator service for turn-by-turn directions as well as its Video Share service, which enables you to send video of yourself to another compatible phone while making a voice call. See more details on optional AT&T services below.
It's powered by a blazing-fast Qualcomm 1 GHz Snapdragon processor for a fast mobile data experience. It also sports a 5-megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash and HD 720p video recording, 16 GB of memory, Wi-Fi networking, Bluetooth for hands-free devices and stereo music streaming, an FM radio, and up to six hours of talk time.
The Power of Windows Phone 7
The Windows Phone 7 operating system has been carefully crafted to help you get more done in fewer steps with a unique Hub and Tile interface. Instead of the common icon displays on the screen, Windows Phone 7 uses Live Tiles, which allow you to find out what's going on, what's happening next, and what you've missed without having to open an application.
Hubs bring together a related set of applications, services, and content in a single view to simplify common tasks. Your contacts, music, games, and work can be shared, synced, and accessed virtually wherever you happen to be. Windows Phone 7 also integrates with many popular Microsoft services such as Xbox LIVE, Windows Live, Bing, and Zune.
Live Tiles on the start screen dynamically update, so there is no need to open an app, and you decide which Tiles you want and where you want them. The Start screen includes the People Hub, which constantly refreshes with status updates from your favorite friends. The Me Tile lets you update all your social media sites, like Facebook--just type once and post everywhere with ease. Other Tiles allow you to quickly see new e-mails arrive in your inbox, play games via Xbox LIVE, and access recent photos and albums to view as well share with others. Swipe up to view more Tiles like music, Office, and more.
In addition to Internet Explorer 8 for full HTML Web browsing, the LG Quantum also includes fully integrated Microsoft Exchange e-mail and calendar as well as the Office Hub, which offers mobile versions of popular productivity programs, including Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft OneNote Mobile, and SharePoint Workspace Mobile.
With Windows Phone 7 you can stay on top of your inbox and quickly cut through the clutter to see only unread, urgent, or flagged messages. Move or delete messages in bulk, and respond to meeting invites right from your inbox with Outlook Mobile. Streamlined account setup works with Windows Live, Google, Yahoo!, and other popular providers. Windows Phone 7 also combines your work and personal calendars in a single, color-coded view, making it easier to spot conflicts and manage your life.
Microsoft Office Mobile is another reason you won't miss your PC when you're away from your desk. Windows Phone 7 has mobile versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint on hand for reviewing or editing on the go. Notes in OneNote Mobile--grocery lists, meeting memos, spontaneous musings--can sync wirelessly to the Web and include voice clips and pictures. SharePoint Workspace Mobile makes it easier to collaborate with your coworkers when you're out and about.
You'll also be able to personalize your phone with the Marketplace Hub. Read reviews, check out ratings, and test out content before you buy.
Entertainment To Go
With the LG Quantum, you can access your favorite music and games thanks to Windows Phone 7's tight integration with Microsoft entertainment services:
Xbox LIVE unlocks a world of games and fun, connecting you to a global community of more than 25 million active Xbox LIVE members and offering easy access to Xbox LIVE features such as Friends, Avatars, Achievements, Messaging, and more (learn more below).
Zune for loading your favorite media--music, movies, TV shows, and podcasts--and taking it wherever. With a Zune Pass subscription, stream millions of songs right to your phone--no need for extra memory.
Additionally, each new Windows Phone from AT&T will include AT&T U-verse Mobile, an app that allows you to download and watch hit shows on your smartphone. U-verse TV subscribers with certain packages will be able to download and watch hit TV shows for no extra charge, and all U-verse TV customers can also schedule and manage their DVR recordings from the app. For the first time, U-verse Mobile will be available nationwide--even to those who are not U-verse TV customers--for just $9.99 per month. Subscribers can access the full content library, select which series or specific episode to download over Wi-Fi, and view on the go wherever they have their Windows Phone.
Key Specifications
Fast 3G connectivity via AT&T's HSPA/UMTS network (850/1900 MHz bands; 3.6/7.2 Mbps speeds with network availability).
GPS navigation capabilities via AT&T Navigator service includes audible turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and re-routing options.
Digital compass sensor
3.5-inch touchscreen display (480 x 800 pixels) with proximity and light sensors
Slide-out full QWERTY physical keyboard
5-megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash gives you a brighter light source for taking photos in less-than-ideal lighting situations. Also includes Intelligent Shot, which lets you take the perfect photo without having to adjust camera settings, and Panoramic Mode for stitching together a full 360-degree landscape scene.
HD video capture capabilities (720p)
Digital media player compatible with MP3, WMA, AAC/AAC+/eAAC+ music formats, and MPEG4, H.264, and WMV video.
FM radio
Play To: DLNA technology lets you transfer videos and photos to networked computers and TVs.
Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.1) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile--enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock.
16 GB internal memory
Text (SMS) and picture/video (MMS) messaging
Access to popular instant messaging services
Access to personal and work e-mail (supports Microsoft Exchange corporate e-mail)
MicroUSB port (2.0)
3.5mm headphone jack
Vital Statistics
The LG Quantum weighs 6.21 ounces and measures 4.7 x 2.34 x 0.6 inches. Its 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery is rated at up to six hours of talk time, and up to 350 hours (14.5 days) of standby time. It runs on the 850/900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS/EDGE frequencies as well as AT&T's dual-band network (850/1900 MHz; HSPA/UMTS) plus international networks (2100 MHz).
What's in the Box
LG Quantum handset, rechargeable battery, charger, USB cable, stereo headset, quick start guide
AT&T Services
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