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Featuring CNET Editor Bonnie Cha

Smart phones for the holidays Session has ended.

Hi everyone, I'm Bonnie Cha, senior editor for CNET mobile tech. I'm here to answer your questions about the wonderful world of smart phones. Submit your questions on topics ranging from holiday buying advice to post-purchase quandaries. I'll do my best to answer within the hour. Let's have some fun!

Latest questions and answers

Q: Music to ringtones

by flizz - 12/13/07 11:50 AM

LG VX8300 is the phone.
Thanks

A: Let me check for you

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 12:00 PM

Hi Flizz,

I haven't tested the LG VX8300 personally, so I'm not sure the answer to your question. I'm going to check in with Kent German, who reviewed the phone, and try to get some help for you and will send you a note later.

Q: Google Android

by katarhol - 12/13/07 11:48 AM

Hello!

This whole Google Android thing has me confused. Is it a language to program? A suite of programs? And what does that mean for all of us without smartphones? Are these programs going to be available for everyone?

Oh, and I'm not sure if you have this already, but does CNET have a comparison of the different cell providers?

Thanks so much! And I have to add, you're definitely in my top five reviewers, along with Dan Ackerman. Hey, he makes me laugh!

A: Why thanks!

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:58 AM

Hi Katarhol,

Thanks for your kind words! So to clear up some of the confusion, Google Android is basically a software platform and gives developers with open access to create applications and such for mobile phones. It's opening to the door wide open for phones in a various form factors with more functionality and a better user experience. It's unclear right now how and when these handsets will start to appear, but as I've said before, it's a pretty exciting time and in the end, I think it will benefit you, the consumers, by giving you more freedom and choice.

And for comparing cell phone providers, check this feature out:

http://reviews.cnet.com/4321-6454_7-6561665.html

Q: Imate Ultimate 8205

by bridges82 - 12/13/07 11:34 AM

Hi Bonnie,

Do you have any idea when the Imate Ultimate 8502 will be coming to the U.S? Thanks

A: Q4

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:50 AM

Sooooo, I-mate says the Ultimate 8502 is supposed to be available by Q4 2007 but obviously time's running out here. After this chat session, I'm going give my friendly peeps over at I-mate a call to see what's up and I'll post the answer in the forums. Sorry, I don't have anything more specific right now. :(

Q: Verizon SmartPhone - VX6800 v i760

by Sobenha - 12/13/07 11:44 AM

Hi Bonnie -

I recently decided to replace my Blackberry with a smartphone. I am trying to make a decision between the Samsung i760 and the UT Starcom (HTC) VX6800. I am trying out the VX6800 on Verizon's "30 Day TestDrive" Before my 30 days expired I was hoping to get some input from CNET. Any idea when you will complete the review for the VX6800? I know that you rated the i760 as one of your picks for best smartphone for 2007.

Thanks.

A: Just got it in

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:47 AM

Hi Sobenha,

What timing! The Verizon Wireless XV6800 just landed on my desk, so look for my review in the next couple of days. I'm just as curious as you are about how it will compare to the i760.

Q: Open Handset Alliance

by dajunga - 12/13/07 11:42 AM

Do you know what carriers are officially on board to support this?

Thanks.

A: T-Mobile and Sprint

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:45 AM

T-Mobile and Sprint are currently the only two carriers that have officially joined the Open Handset Alliance. Of course, Verizon Wireless also made a splash last week saying they'd open up their network to third-party apps and devices, but they're not officially part of the OHA.

Q: Sony Erickson...etc

by pmylonakos - 12/13/07 11:35 AM

Hi,

do u know if any U.S Carrier will bring the Sony Erickson K850i? Why the U.S is about 50 years behind cell technology as compared to europe and asia...

A: Possibly AT&T

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:39 AM

Hi there,

No U.S. carrier has officially picked up the Sony Ericsson K850i, but there are rumors that AT&T may snatch that puppy up.

Q: Google Android

by dajunga - 12/13/07 11:31 AM

Have you had the chance to test drive this new mobile OS and devices that support it? Do you know if current devices like HTC Touch will support this new OS?

A: Not yet

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:36 AM

Unfortunately, I haven't had any hands-on time with Google Android, but I'm hoping I might get a peek at CES in January. And I can't say for sure that it will support current devices like the HTC Touch, but I'm pretty excited to see what kind of new smartphones will come out of this project. And I'm sure HTC will have a hand in it.

Q: College Kid Smart Phone - ATT

by Beagal22 - 12/13/07 11:27 AM

Son will be off to college next year, but I am coming up quickly on re-upping my plan. He will be getting a laptop. Does he need the smart phone too? If yes, wi-fi would cut down on the need for an expensive data plan and the campuses are all wired. What should we be looking at?

A: Few options out there

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:34 AM

Hi there,

There are definitely a number of good entry-level smartphones out there that might be good for your son. I'm not sure which carrier he has but here is a round-up I did of good starter models: http://reviews.cnet.com/4321-6452_7-6508983.html

I'd also add the T-Mobile Shadow or T-Mobile Sidekick LX.

And I've got to say, it's pretty amazing how fast smartphones are catching on, outside of the business world. One report even says, they're outselling laptops--crazu.

Q: Windows Mobile 6.1

by boblam - 12/13/07 11:25 AM

Do you have an overview of the new features of Windows Mobile 6.1 update? Will this be benefical for users of the T-Mobile Dash? Is the Dash capable of handling this OS?

A: Rumors are just starting

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:28 AM

So we're just starting to see and hear about Windows Mobile 6.1, and unfortunately, I don't have any more details than what's out there now. It looks like it will just be some minor enhancements to the interface and some other fixes. Without knowing much about it, I'm not sure whether it will be beneficial to Dash users, but I'll keep you posted as I learn more. Perhaps I'll get a peak at it at CES!

Q: Getting ringtones on music not made as them

by flizz - 12/13/07 11:15 AM

Hi Bonnie.
I am on the verizon network and they do not have a perticular band set up for ringtone. Is there a way to take one of my MP3's of them and convert it to a ringtone?
Steve

A: What kind of phone?

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:24 AM

Hi Flizz,

Can you tell me what phone you have, please?

Q: WM6 Upgrade for AT&T 8525

by nagunuri - 12/13/07 11:19 AM

Do u have any idea when we will get the WM6 upgrade for AT&T 8525

A: It's out now!

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:23 AM

Hello,

I just did a quick search on HTC's Web site, and it looks like the upgrade is out now! Just go to the support site and follow the instructions and good luck! http://www.america.htc.com/support/8525/software-downloads.html

Q: T-Mobile Windows Mobile Phone

by boblam - 12/13/07 11:15 AM

What is the best T-Mobile phone with Windows Mobile on it? Will any smart phone work today with T-Mobile's rumored new 3G network?

A: Still love the Dash

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:19 AM

Hi there,

I know the T-Mobile Dash (http://reviews.cnet.com/smartphones/t-mobile-dash-aka/4505-6452_7-32088045.html) is on the "older" side but it still remains one of my favorites. I love the form factor, and it's a great performer. As for 3G support, this will have to come through a separate update. Mind you, this also depends on whether T-Mobile and HTC will provide an update, because they may choose not to.

Q: need help with Treo 680

by Lora1 - 12/13/07 11:08 AM

Can you refer me to a place where I can talk to someone about a phone problem I've had with my Treo 680 since I got it? Palm's support is quite inadequate and they even replaced the device and the problem continues. also replaced sim card with my carrier. I don't want to take up everyones valuable time here. thanks, Lora

A: What kind of problems?

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:12 AM

Hi Lora1,

Can you tell me what type of problems you're having? That'll help me point you in the right direction. And I'm not sure if you've already done this, but posting a question in CNET cell phone forums (http://forums.cnet.com/5204-7817_102-0.html?forumID=74&start=0&tag=dir) might help. We've got a lot of knowledgeable readers out there!

Q: Verizon customer who wants something like an iPhone

by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:01 AM

Bonnie, here is a question from a member sent via e-mail...

"The Apple IPhone has gotten lots of hype and anticipation was high! Still, some of the reviews I read say that there is still lots to be desired before it is really a super product—network issues (slow), won't recognize some email (what about Outlook Express?) and there are lots of other reviews on Apple's website under comments-. I am still under a hefty contract with Verizon for another 14 mos. What can we expect in the future with other companies marketing a similar product, realizing that Apple's simplicity and glitzy graphics is what has always made those products so appealing. Can it really be that difficult to develop a lightweight smartphone that meets all of the "usual and customary"ť needs of customers' cell phone (clarity, reliability), calendar (which will sync with Outlook), SMS, internet, games, camera, etc.??

I love Verizon's reliability, dependability, etc. and would prefer to stay with them (wireless customer for over 10 years). Will I be forced to switch to AT&T and pray for a next generation Apple IPhone (beyond 8 mg)???

Thanks,
Dorothy J.

A: Cell phone world is wide open

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:10 AM

Hi Dorothy,

I've got to say, it's a pretty exciting time for the cell phone world. With the announcement of Google Android and the Open Handset Alliance, I think we're going to see a lot more innovative cell phones and smartphones (a la Apple iPhone) and with less restrictions in terms of carrier. So I don't think it will be long before you see that lightweight smartphone with everything you're looking for. As for the iPhone, I'm not really sure whether they'll stick with just AT&T, but I'm betting there will be plenty more iPhone competitors to come. Verizon has a pretty good one now with the LG Voyager: http://reviews.cnet.com/cell-phones/lg-voyager-vx10000-verizon/4505-6454_7-32640927.html

Q: best phone for web browsing

by missbernard - 12/13/07 10:58 AM

Hi,

I have a question. What is the best phone is for browsing the web?

A: Some features to consider

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 11:04 AM

Hi there,

I wouldn't say there is a single smartphone that's best for Web browsing, but there are some factors that make some models for surfing the Internets than other. Look for a model that has a large screen--a touch screen is even better so you can more easily navigate. Also, 3G speeds (EV-D0, HSPDA) make for a much better experience since you get faster download rates. I'm not sure which carrier you have, but if you want to send me a follow-up question with your service provider, I'd be happy to give you some recommendations.

A: Let's do this!

by bonnie.cha - 12/13/07 10:53 AM

Hi everyone,

Welcome to the last Ask the Editors Live session for 2007! I'm here and ready for your questions about smartphones. Looking forward to chatting with you.

Cheers,
Bonnie

Incoming questions

Sprint Smartphone/PDA
Hi Bonnie,

I'm currently looking at a new PDA/Smartphone & would like to stick with Sprint due to their data network speeds. I am a single dad & work in middle management. I need something to organize my business & personal life, that is also fun to play around with. I live in Excel at work. I've owned a Treo 650 & loved everything about it but its size & that darned antenna nub. I prefer a touch screen & the HTC Touch has had me intrigued & following it for months (the slider would be ideal if it were available).

Of Sprint's current line-up which would you suggest & why?

Thanks,

Jerry
by jerryp2375 - 12/13/07 12:06 PM
Windows vs. Blackberry
I'm new to the smartphone thing and I'm looking for my first. Thinking about Windows vs. Blackberry. Thought? Also, if I go windows, Thoughts on the new HTC 710 vs. the Samsung i760?
by mharad - 12/13/07 12:05 PM
Thanks!
was fun!
by dajunga - 12/13/07 12:04 PM
80s Baby
Can you give me your take on the Nokia N95 8GB?
by Akinwande8 - 12/13/07 12:04 PM
Nikon D300
I'm interested in purchasing a Nikon D300 Digital Camera, but wanted to read your review first. Any idear on when you will have the review done?
by Jtiff99 - 12/13/07 12:02 PM
(NT) thank you Lee
by jopanu - 12/13/07 11:57 AM
jopanu I will email you directly
Give me a few minutes...

Thanks!
-Lee
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:50 AM
Music to ringtones
LG VX8300 is the phone.
Thanks
by flizz - 12/13/07 11:50 AM
Google Android
Hello!

This whole Google Android thing has me confused. Is it a language to program? A suite of programs? And what does that mean for all of us without smartphones? Are these programs going to be available for everyone?

Oh, and I'm not sure if you have this already, but does CNET have a comparison of the different cell providers?

Thanks so much! And I have to add, you're definitely in my top five reviewers, along with Dan Ackerman. Hey, he makes me laugh!
by katarhol - 12/13/07 11:48 AM
Verizon SmartPhone - VX6800 v i760
Hi Bonnie -

I recently decided to replace my Blackberry with a smartphone. I am trying to make a decision between the Samsung i760 and the UT Starcom (HTC) VX6800. I am trying out the VX6800 on Verizon's "30 Day TestDrive" Before my 30 days expired I was hoping to get some input from CNET. Any idea when you will complete the review for the VX6800? I know that you rated the i760 as one of your picks for best smartphone for 2007.

Thanks.
by Sobenha - 12/13/07 11:44 AM
didn't work
I sent my question to the General part of Customer Service and got a comuter generated response to query tech support but then it was back to a terabyte database of faqs which don't seem to answer my question... I am still trying but your suggestion didn't work out thanks, tho
by jopanu - 12/13/07 11:43 AM
Open Handset Alliance
Do you know what carriers are officially on board to support this?

Thanks.
by dajunga - 12/13/07 11:42 AM
For pieeatingkid
Hi there,

This live chat event's topic is on smart phones.

Your best bet to get some feedback on your question would be to post it in the CNET desktops forum here:

http://forums.cnet.com/5204-7586_102-0.html?forumID=68

We have a lot of helpful members and mods so give it whirl. Just my 2 cents worth--since you are looking for something space saving, you might want to consider a laptop.

Good luck and have fun in college!

-Lee
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:42 AM
I-Phone or Pearl?
I am with AT&T. I am moving from corporate american where I have a Blackberry 8700C to my own business that dows not require travel. I like e-mail access and using the internet on my phone. I now use the internet browser to check my personal email and it is pretty poor. Question? Which phone is for me? Can I have good e-mail interface for my new business e-mail and my personal e-mail...still have good interface without having to choose one primary?

Thanks

Zoot
by jwroot1 - 12/13/07 11:38 AM
what better imac or gateway one
what better imac or gateway one because i need a space saving destop for collage
by pieeatingkid - 12/13/07 11:35 AM
Sony Erickson...etc
Hi,

do u know if any U.S Carrier will bring the Sony Erickson K850i? Why the U.S is about 50 years behind cell technology as compared to europe and asia...
by pmylonakos - 12/13/07 11:35 AM
Imate Ultimate 8205
Hi Bonnie,

Do you have any idea when the Imate Ultimate 8502 will be coming to the U.S? Thanks
by bridges82 - 12/13/07 11:34 AM
Android Phones
When can we except them to be available for sale. What impact will it have on WM6 phones.
by s_adnanjafri - 12/13/07 11:33 AM
More on College Kid Smart Phone
Or should we be waiting for something better coming out in the first half of next year?
by Beagal22 - 12/13/07 11:32 AM
what is better ipod nano 2gen or 3gen
what is better ipod nano 2gen or 3gen
by pieeatingkid - 12/13/07 11:32 AM
Google Android
Have you had the chance to test drive this new mobile OS and devices that support it? Do you know if current devices like HTC Touch will support this new OS?
by dajunga - 12/13/07 11:31 AM
College Kid Smart Phone - ATT
Son will be off to college next year, but I am coming up quickly on re-upping my plan. He will be getting a laptop. Does he need the smart phone too? If yes, wi-fi would cut down on the need for an expensive data plan and the campuses are all wired. What should we be looking at?
by Beagal22 - 12/13/07 11:27 AM
Windows Mobile 6.1
Do you have an overview of the new features of Windows Mobile 6.1 update? Will this be benefical for users of the T-Mobile Dash? Is the Dash capable of handling this OS?
by boblam - 12/13/07 11:25 AM
jopanu email our customer support directly
Hi there jopanu,

Sorry for your frustrations.

Have you tried emailing CNET's customer support so they can direct your question to the folks who may have some troubleshooting tips to get your videos playing on your browser again?

That would be your best bet. Here is the link to email customer service directly--tell them I sent you there :):
http://cnet.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/cnet.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php?

Good luck and happy holidays!
-Lee
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:21 AM
WM6 Upgrade for AT&T 8525
Do u have any idea when we will get the WM6 upgrade for AT&T 8525
by nagunuri - 12/13/07 11:19 AM
LG ENV
hi i have a lg anv, when i try to transfer files from my imac to my env, its doesnt let me, beacuse the phone doesnt let me file transfer, it has the capability to, but verizon blocked this, how can i unblock it? thanks
by trackbeast - 12/13/07 11:19 AM
treo 680
Sometimes (completely randomly -no pattern) the phone beeps instead of rings a few times then goes silent, although the display shows the call is still underway. It does then not connect to the recipient or their voicemail. the recipient can see that I have called. Thanks
by Lora1 - 12/13/07 11:16 AM
Getting ringtones on music not made as them
Hi Bonnie.
I am on the verizon network and they do not have a perticular band set up for ringtone. Is there a way to take one of my MP3's of them and convert it to a ringtone?
Steve
by flizz - 12/13/07 11:15 AM
T-Mobile Windows Mobile Phone
What is the best T-Mobile phone with Windows Mobile on it? Will any smart phone work today with T-Mobile's rumored new 3G network?
by boblam - 12/13/07 11:15 AM
different topic but maybe you can direct me
After logging onto CNET reviews with Win XP , I cannot view video topics. They flash as they start to load and then they disappear - no new window or tab... nothing and I cannot find any way to describe this on google or in cnet FAQs so far so as to get a solution. Not your topic area but I am getting pretty frustrated after about 4 hours over three days of trying. Thanks
by jopanu - 12/13/07 11:12 AM
Small biz owner . . . smart phone with google apps.
I am a small business owner that uses google apps for contacts/mail/calendar etc. I need a phone that will integrate/sync its contact list and calendar with google.

Most smart phones seem to have MS Exchange in mind.

What is my best bet?

Thanks!
by car_lost - 12/13/07 11:11 AM
The YAWP.
When the iPhone was rolling out Steve Ballmer was quoted as "Who would ever" pay 500 bucks for a phone. With some million plus out that's been proven to be a joke.

But this (Balmer) nugget seems to extend to Microsoft's treatment of Windows Mobile. In my view (I write PalmOs Apps) Microsft seems to have ignored Windows Mobile much like they did the Internet not long ago.

Hmm, I see the connection. It took a few years for Microsoft to figure out that the next big thing was the Internet.

Which has my calling all the wanna be an iPhones I see "Yet Another Windows Phone."

I see history repeating here. Do you?
by R. Proffitt - 12/13/07 11:09 AM
need help with Treo 680
Can you refer me to a place where I can talk to someone about a phone problem I've had with my Treo 680 since I got it? Palm's support is quite inadequate and they even replaced the device and the problem continues. also replaced sim card with my carrier. I don't want to take up everyones valuable time here. thanks, Lora
by Lora1 - 12/13/07 11:08 AM
To acampagna85
Hi there acampagna85 ,

This Ask the editor live event's topic is on Smart phones.

You might want to wait for a live chat event that will cover home theater equipment...

But for the time being you can always discuss these Sony models with other of members in the Home audio and video forum right here:

http://forums.cnet.com/5204-7596_102-0.html?forumID=60

Thanks and Happy Holidays!
-Lee
CNET Community
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:07 AM
(NT) Will you ever review the Sony DAV-IS10?
by acampagna85 - 12/13/07 11:01 AM
(NT) Do you think you will ever review the Sony KDL-46V3000?
by acampagna85 - 12/13/07 11:00 AM
Verizon customer who wants something like an iPhone
Bonnie, here is a question from a member sent via e-mail...

"The Apple IPhone has gotten lots of hype and anticipation was high! Still, some of the reviews I read say that there is still lots to be desired before it is really a super product—network issues (slow), won't recognize some email (what about Outlook Express?) and there are lots of other reviews on Apple's website under comments-. I am still under a hefty contract with Verizon for another 14 mos. What can we expect in the future with other companies marketing a similar product, realizing that Apple's simplicity and glitzy graphics is what has always made those products so appealing. Can it really be that difficult to develop a lightweight smartphone that meets all of the "usual and customary"ť needs of customers' cell phone (clarity, reliability), calendar (which will sync with Outlook), SMS, internet, games, camera, etc.??

I love Verizon's reliability, dependability, etc. and would prefer to stay with them (wireless customer for over 10 years). Will I be forced to switch to AT&T and pray for a next generation Apple IPhone (beyond 8 mg)???

Thanks,
Dorothy J.
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/13/07 11:01 AM
best phone for web browsing
Hi,

I have a question. What is the best phone is for browsing the web?
by missbernard - 12/13/07 10:58 AM
Bonnie Cha, CNET mobile tech editor LIVE!
Ask the Editors Live! event. Topic: Smart phones for the holidays

Got smart phone questions? Need some holiday buying advice on them?

Well, you've come to the right place. For one whole hour on Thursday, December 13, from 11 am to noon Pacific Time (2 pm Eastern), CNET senior editor, Bonnie Cha will be here to answer all things about smart phones, ranging from holiday buying advice to post purchase quandaries!

So if you got questions, Bonnie has answers! Don't miss out!
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 12/12/07 11:50 PM