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Featuring CNET Editor Kent German

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Apple iPhone Session has ended.

Missed this live event? No worries! Each Thursday from 11 a.m. to noon Pacific, we'll give you the chance to chat live with a CNET editor. We'll cover a new topic each week, from cell phones to TVs. Get those burning tech questions ready! Click here for the Ask the Editors Live event calendar.

Latest questions and answers

Q: iPhone / Cut and Paste / Root Security

by Vegaman_Dan - 10/9/08 11:50 AM

As applications are all run as root on the Apple iPhone, would this possibly be a reason towards their reluctance towards including the very basic copy / paste functionality? One suspect application could, through the use of the clipboard, have unrestricted access through the rest of the system it seems to me. With that in mind, it makes sense. But I could be completely be off base too. Thought?

A: iPhone and cut and paste

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:57 AM

Though it may not seem like at the time, Apple typically has specific reason for not including a feature in a device. Some may be understandable but other I'll never get (as in why they can't add an FM radio to the iPod). Your explanation about cut and paste is plausible.

Q: Nokia N96

by harrisconst - 10/9/08 11:51 AM

I am considering the N96 as I'm a little jaded with the'dumbing down' of the iPhone 3G connectivity.
What is your take on the N96?

A: Nokia N96

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:55 AM

When I saw it back in February at the GSMA show in Barcelona I was very intrigued. Hopefully, I'll get to take a better look at it soon. Nokia is being a bit stingy with their review models.

Q: 3g Data Plan prices, continued...

by jklutterman - 10/9/08 11:50 AM

Like all of the comparison sites I've found, Phonedog.com compares only voice plans - no data plan comparison is possible.

Seems to me that this is an really important topic. If it hasn't been covered yet, maybe it could be a (near) future cnet project?

A: carrier coverage

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:52 AM

That is a good idea. I'm looking at ways to improve our carrier coverage. It's just hard to find the time with so many new phones to review. The fall season is crazy, especially with almost 20 new phones expected form Sasmsung alone! :)

Q: How to Fax MacBook - Krzr (cont. from 11:23 a.m.)

by TampaTekkie - 10/9/08 11:45 AM

The Krzr did not come with any Mac fax software. Fax software seems to just run on dialup modems. My problem may be that Bluetooth tethering works for TCP/IP. I just need to fax at a regular number.

Thanks.

A: Have you used a cablee?

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:49 AM

That might do it.

Q: Sprint Instinct Software Update

by brandtbrown - 10/9/08 11:44 AM

Have heard if the latest software update for the Instinct has improved the complants you heard from the forum you posted a while back?

Thanks

A: Instinct

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:47 AM

A few people told me the update has made improvements. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to test it since we had to return our Instinct review model. http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10056028-1.html

Q: sony xperia 1

by sigma003 - 10/9/08 11:43 AM

Recently I have seen the Xperia 1 on the FCC website and was tested for the specs of the at&t network. Have you heard heard or read anything about that?

A: Xperia and FCC

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:45 AM

I wrote about the Xperia clearing the FCC last week. You can click through to read the Xperia's full user manual. http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10058232-1.html AT&T is a likely carrier, but nothing confirmed yet.

Q: Android

by ariyanti.sariajani - 10/9/08 11:37 AM

Who do you think is next to introduce a new Android based phone. I use a lot of Google apps and I want an Android phone. Beside HTC who might be the next provider and maker?

A: LG and Samsung

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:44 AM

Those manufacturers are expected to be next with an Android phone. Not sure about a carrier.

Q: Flash capability on iPhone

by alziedood - 10/9/08 11:34 AM

why is Flash not available on the iPhone? It's the biggest drawback as far as I'm concerned. Will it ever be compatible with the iPhone?

A: Flash lite

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:43 AM

From what I understand, Flash lite simply overwhelms the iPhone's processor and the phone gets too slow. I'm not confident we'll see it soon.

Q: Comparing 3g Data plans

by jklutterman - 10/9/08 11:34 AM

Do you know of any source that provides a useful comparison of 3g Data Plan prices from the big 4 carriers?

A: comparing plans

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:42 AM

Phonedog.com can be good for comparing plans, though I'm not sure if they compare 3G plans specifically.

Q: Email with new devices

by zeroviper89 - 10/9/08 11:20 AM

With all these new Smartphones coming out, which one will be able to compete with RIM in terms of email and is there a current device that can compete with RIM-please keep in mind that i am BB 8800 user and am looking for an alternative!

Big thanks!

A: e-mail

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:41 AM

If you don't like Windows Mobile that's a touch call. other devices get exchnage e-mail (like the iPhone) but I still don't think they do it as efficiently. The Instinct and G1 don's support exchange. You'll need an Outlook Web Access account.

Q: Symbian S60 Apps

by freedom0 - 10/9/08 11:25 AM

I have a Nokia E71 and was wondering what are some the must have free Symbian S60 3rd Edition Apps?

A: Symbian apps

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:39 AM

Sorry, I done have any fave apps right now.

Q: XPERIA X1

by ehayes2006 - 10/9/08 11:31 AM

Any breaking news on the Xperia? Carriers cost etc? Would you recomend it for a high feature texting phone?

A: No carrier news yet

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:38 AM

Availability of the Xperia in NA beyond an unlocked model is still uncertain. I think it looks very cool but we need to review it before I can recommend it. That should happen soon; we just need to get a review model from Sony Ericsson.

Q: Samsung INNOV8

by csabe123 - 10/9/08 11:26 AM

Would you say that with all the favorable outside reviews of the Samsung Innov8 (Cnet- Asia), we are approaching the times of the all in one kitchen sink included smartphones? Point and shoot camera, portable media and video player etc etc?

A: We're getting there

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:37 AM

That moment is getting closer. I'll have a review of the Innov8 next week so I'll let you know.

Q: How to Fax MacBook - Krzr (cont. from 11:01 a.m.)

by TampaTekkie - 10/9/08 11:23 AM

Dear Kent,
I have a MacBook and a Motorola Krzr, both with Bluetooth. I want to be able to fax an MS Word file via Bluetooth through Krzr to a fax machine with a regular fax number. I can get the MacBook to dial a number on the Krzr, but I can't go beyond that. Is there a special app?
Thank you.

A: Hmmm

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:36 AM

Did your phone come with any software?

Q: T-Mobile 3g

by alam7 - 10/9/08 11:23 AM

I'm wondering does the 3g on Sony Ericsson TM506 from T-Mobile support Europe or Asia 3?. Since the spec says it support UMTS 2100.

A: T-Mo 3g

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:34 AM

Actually, I need to confirm. E-mail me at cellphoneadvice@cnet.com.

Q: Helio

by dnazboy - 10/9/08 11:25 AM

Do you think their service is affordable? I was thinking about switching from t-mobile now that my contract is done? Is it a good service in your opinion?

A: Helio

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:33 AM

I like Helio's service (Nicole Lee reviews Helio devices) but remember that Helio is merging with Virgin Mobile. Their plans will be changing.

Q: Bonnie Cha

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:21 AM

What is Bonnie's email address?

A: e-mail

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:35 AM

go here and you will be able to find Bonnie's email address: http://www.cnet.com/1991-13403_1-6722494-2.html

Q: Alltel HTC Diamond

by brandtbrown - 10/9/08 11:30 AM

Have heard anything regarding the HTC Diamond for Alltel? When it will come out? Or how much? Same as teh Sprint version? Its been secretly posted on their website for the last week. HTC touch diamond

A: Alltel

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:32 AM

I haven't heard anything official about the Touch Diamond for Alltel but I have seen the link. Alltel is improving their lineup so it makes sense. Also, I think it would be very similar to the Sprint version.

Q: Flip phones(2)

by DeezyC - 10/9/08 11:20 AM

What are some new features newer flip phones have and how do they compare to smart phones in general?

A: Flip phones

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:30 AM

In very general terms, flip phones can't quite compare to candy bar and slider phones in terms of features. we haven't seen a smartphone with a flip design in a long time but the BlackBerry Flip launch is imminent. Stay tuned!

Q: Hi!

by mattburley1993 - 10/9/08 11:19 AM

Hello Kent German, Senior Editor at CNET.com.

Firstly, I love your "First look from the lab" video on CNET TV, they are great! Very interesting and friendly attitude.

I have a Samsung D900, and I am looking to replace it with a new phone. I need 3G, a good camera (3.2MP ?) and a decent web browser, but I dont want to pay any more than I did for my Samsung! I want an iPhone, but the hefty contract is awful :(.

Also, is there a way to jail break the iPhone 2.1 firm ware, a friend of mine would like to know that.

Keep up the excellent work at CNET.com and CNETTV.com.

Regards,

Matthew

A: iPhone jailbreak

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:26 AM

There are ways to jailbreak 2.1, but it;s getting harder. I haven't tried it so I can't recommend one way. try a Google search. As for a phone selection, let me think about it. Shoot me an e-mail as cellphoneadvice@cnet.com.

Q: Best phones

by Brother_Marshmallow - 10/9/08 11:19 AM

Mr. Cel Phone Guru Sir, in your opinion which carrier has the best phones? I've been with Verizon for 6 years now and so far haven't been too disappointed with their selection, but was just wondering which carrier might have even better phones. Thanks.

A: Carrier phones

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:25 AM

Verizon has improved their phone selection a lot in the past couple of years. AT&t remains good and T-Mobile is getting a lot better. Sprint needs help, though, as its phone selection is getting pretty stale.

Q: G1 Application Store

by iceman721 - 10/9/08 11:17 AM

Hi Kent,
Can you give some insight on what you expect the initial launch of the G1 application store will look like. How many programs are expected at launch and have you seen any of the applications that are expected to be ready at launch?

A: G1 app store

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:23 AM

I got a brief look at the app store, so I can't describe it in detail just yet. There should be about 35 apps at launch. We'll have more news soon.

Q: Next Iphone a year away?

by coolguy8621 - 10/9/08 11:16 AM

Do you expect it to be a year again before the new Iphone comes out? They are still missing the boat on a few things, maybe this time they will add them.

A: Maybe next MacWorld

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:22 AM

I don't expect new iPhone news until MacWorld 2009. The keynote is Jan. 6.

Q: Xperia X1

by natesht - 10/9/08 11:15 AM

When do you think we can expect Xperia X1 getting launched in US (AT&T) and how much do you thing will be???

A: Maybe early next year

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:21 AM

Unlocked versions of the Xperia are expected at resellers in the US (like Dynamism.com) this month. Carrier launch (if any) usually some a couple months later, at least. If AT&T does get it, I'm sure it will be $200 plus (with service).

Q: AT&T Tilt

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:13 AM

When will there be a new version of the AT&T Tilt?

A: Not sure

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:19 AM

Unfortunately, I'm not sure. If you send Bonnie an e-mail, she might have more insight.

Q: LG Voyager 2

by docjavie - 10/9/08 11:14 AM

I read on engadget mobile there is a rumor LG is bringing out a Voyager2 have you heard about this? If so do you know when it's coming out or what the features on it will be?

A: Voyager 2

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:19 AM

Yes, I've heard that too. Verizon and LG haven't said anything official yet, but the Voyager remains a popular and well-received device. It's almost a year old so there's a good chance it will come soon.

Q: The Iphone

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:15 AM

When will the Iphone add MMS or Video messaging?

A: Soon I hope!

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:16 AM

I really hope it is soon as that remains a big flaw of the iPhone. It may come through an app, but I think Apple should integrate that functionality directly.

Q: Flip phones

by DeezyC - 10/9/08 11:09 AM

What flip phones that are coming out should we keep an eye on? And how "smart" are flip phones capable of getting compared to whats currently on the market?

A: flip phones

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:15 AM

I don't quite understand the last art of your question. can you rephrase, please?

Q: iPhone-killer

by Brother_Marshmallow - 10/9/08 11:09 AM

Hi Kent, do you think the Blackberry Storm will be an iPhone-killer? And if so, why?

A: Storm and iPhone

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:13 AM

I don't like the term "iPhone killer" because I don't think there will ever be one device that could do that. The iPhone will always have an audience and that term assumes that the iPhone needs to be killed. But the Storm will be an iPhone competitor, certainly. It has a great design and an appealing interface. Video looks good and the BlackBerry e-mail is always great.

Q: Nokia N96

by jlinclk - 10/9/08 11:01 AM

When will we see the North American version of the Nokia N96?

Also, are there plans to make 3G versions of the Nokia N85 and Samsung Innov8?

A: Nokia N96

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:10 AM

Nokia should have a NA version of the N96, just as they did with the N95. I'm sure it will be expensive, though! The Innov8 supports 3G bands now.

Q: Blackberry Storm

by breck81 - 10/9/08 11:03 AM

What are your first impressions of the new Blackberry Storm. Is it all it's cracked up to be?

A: Storm

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:08 AM

I like it, so far. The touchscreen interface is lovely but the click-through feature is a little odd. Check out Bonnie's first take. http://reviews.cnet.com/smartphones/rim-blackberry-storm/4505-6452_7-33311850.html

Q: BOLD!

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:03 AM

How great is the BlackeBerry Bold? And will the Storm ever come to AT&T?

A: BlackBerrys

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:06 AM

The Storm may come to AT&T, but I would wager that Verizon has a monopoly for now. But I'm sure we'll see a GSM version before too long. The Bold is delayed yet again but we should see it with AT&T before the month is out. I only saw the Bold for a few minutes but it looks like a great device with a fantastic display.

Q: Best Phone!

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:01 AM

What is the best phone out there right now, present and upcoming smartphones included?

A: Here are a few

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:04 AM

These are some of Bonnie Cha's favorite smartphones right now. http://reviews.cnet.com/best-smartphones/ And click through to the "best" carrier lists to see other top smartphones.

Q: BEST PHONE!

by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:00 AM

What is the best phone out there right now, present and upcoming phones included?

A: A difficult question

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 11:03 AM

Unfortunately, I see way too many phones to name one "best" model. But I can tell you some of our top models right now so chekc out this link. http://reviews.cnet.com/best-cell-phones/ Also, I can tell you which upcoming phones I'm most excited about. I'm looking forward to the T-Mobile G1, the BlackBerry Storm, the Nokia 5800 and the Motorola ZN5.

A: Welcome!

by KentGerman - 10/9/08 10:59 AM

Hi, I'm Kent German, CNET's editor for cell phone reviews. I'm ready to answer your questions on all the new phones we can expect for the pre-holiday season. I'll be here for the next hour so fire away!

Incoming questions

boosting a signal
my at&t signal is terrible in my room in my house... is there a way to put an antenna in a "good" area and boost it to a bad area... i have an iphone and am stuck with at&t... thank you
by kevin mason - 10/9/08 12:03 PM
Nokia N96
I am considering the N96 as I'm a little jaded with the'dumbing down' of the iPhone 3G connectivity.
What is your take on the N96?
by harrisconst - 10/9/08 11:51 AM
iPhone / Cut and Paste / Root Security
As applications are all run as root on the Apple iPhone, would this possibly be a reason towards their reluctance towards including the very basic copy / paste functionality? One suspect application could, through the use of the clipboard, have unrestricted access through the rest of the system it seems to me. With that in mind, it makes sense. But I could be completely be off base too. Thought?
by Vegaman_Dan - 10/9/08 11:50 AM
3g Data Plan prices, continued...
Like all of the comparison sites I've found, Phonedog.com compares only voice plans - no data plan comparison is possible.

Seems to me that this is an really important topic. If it hasn't been covered yet, maybe it could be a (near) future cnet project?
by jklutterman - 10/9/08 11:50 AM
How to Fax MacBook - Krzr (cont. from 11:23 a.m.)
The Krzr did not come with any Mac fax software. Fax software seems to just run on dialup modems. My problem may be that Bluetooth tethering works for TCP/IP. I just need to fax at a regular number.

Thanks.
by TampaTekkie - 10/9/08 11:45 AM
Sprint Instinct Software Update
Have heard if the latest software update for the Instinct has improved the complants you heard from the forum you posted a while back?

Thanks
by brandtbrown - 10/9/08 11:44 AM
sony xperia 1
Recently I have seen the Xperia 1 on the FCC website and was tested for the specs of the at&t network. Have you heard heard or read anything about that?
by sigma003 - 10/9/08 11:43 AM
Android
Who do you think is next to introduce a new Android based phone. I use a lot of Google apps and I want an Android phone. Beside HTC who might be the next provider and maker?
by ariyanti.sariajani - 10/9/08 11:37 AM
Flash capability on iPhone
why is Flash not available on the iPhone? It's the biggest drawback as far as I'm concerned. Will it ever be compatible with the iPhone?
by alziedood - 10/9/08 11:34 AM
Comparing 3g Data plans
Do you know of any source that provides a useful comparison of 3g Data Plan prices from the big 4 carriers?
by jklutterman - 10/9/08 11:34 AM
XPERIA X1
Any breaking news on the Xperia? Carriers cost etc? Would you recomend it for a high feature texting phone?
by ehayes2006 - 10/9/08 11:31 AM
Samsung INNOV8
Would you say that with all the favorable outside reviews of the Samsung Innov8 (Cnet- Asia), we are approaching the times of the all in one kitchen sink included smartphones? Point and shoot camera, portable media and video player etc etc?
by csabe123 - 10/9/08 11:26 AM
Symbian S60 Apps
I have a Nokia E71 and was wondering what are some the must have free Symbian S60 3rd Edition Apps?
by freedom0 - 10/9/08 11:25 AM
Helio
Do you think their service is affordable? I was thinking about switching from t-mobile now that my contract is done? Is it a good service in your opinion?
by dnazboy - 10/9/08 11:25 AM
T-Mobile 3g
I'm wondering does the 3g on Sony Ericsson TM506 from T-Mobile support Europe or Asia 3?. Since the spec says it support UMTS 2100.
by alam7 - 10/9/08 11:23 AM
How to Fax MacBook - Krzr (cont. from 11:01 a.m.)
Dear Kent,
I have a MacBook and a Motorola Krzr, both with Bluetooth. I want to be able to fax an MS Word file via Bluetooth through Krzr to a fax machine with a regular fax number. I can get the MacBook to dial a number on the Krzr, but I can't go beyond that. Is there a special app?
Thank you.
by TampaTekkie - 10/9/08 11:23 AM
Alltel HTC Diamond
Have heard anything regarding the HTC Diamond for Alltel? When it will come out? Or how much? Same as teh Sprint version? Its been secretly posted on their website for the last week. HTC touch diamond
by brandtbrown - 10/9/08 11:30 AM
Bonnie Cha
What is Bonnie's email address?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:21 AM
Email with new devices
With all these new Smartphones coming out, which one will be able to compete with RIM in terms of email and is there a current device that can compete with RIM-please keep in mind that i am BB 8800 user and am looking for an alternative!

Big thanks!
by zeroviper89 - 10/9/08 11:20 AM
Flip phones(2)
What are some new features newer flip phones have and how do they compare to smart phones in general?
by DeezyC - 10/9/08 11:20 AM
Best phones
Mr. Cel Phone Guru Sir, in your opinion which carrier has the best phones? I've been with Verizon for 6 years now and so far haven't been too disappointed with their selection, but was just wondering which carrier might have even better phones. Thanks.
by Brother_Marshmallow - 10/9/08 11:19 AM
Hi!
Hello Kent German, Senior Editor at CNET.com.

Firstly, I love your "First look from the lab" video on CNET TV, they are great! Very interesting and friendly attitude.

I have a Samsung D900, and I am looking to replace it with a new phone. I need 3G, a good camera (3.2MP ?) and a decent web browser, but I dont want to pay any more than I did for my Samsung! I want an iPhone, but the hefty contract is awful :(.

Also, is there a way to jail break the iPhone 2.1 firm ware, a friend of mine would like to know that.

Keep up the excellent work at CNET.com and CNETTV.com.

Regards,

Matthew
by mattburley1993 - 10/9/08 11:19 AM
G1 Application Store
Hi Kent,
Can you give some insight on what you expect the initial launch of the G1 application store will look like. How many programs are expected at launch and have you seen any of the applications that are expected to be ready at launch?
by iceman721 - 10/9/08 11:17 AM
Next Iphone a year away?
Do you expect it to be a year again before the new Iphone comes out? They are still missing the boat on a few things, maybe this time they will add them.
by coolguy8621 - 10/9/08 11:16 AM
Xperia X1
When do you think we can expect Xperia X1 getting launched in US (AT&T) and how much do you thing will be???
by natesht - 10/9/08 11:15 AM
The Iphone
When will the Iphone add MMS or Video messaging?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:15 AM
LG Voyager 2
I read on engadget mobile there is a rumor LG is bringing out a Voyager2 have you heard about this? If so do you know when it's coming out or what the features on it will be?
by docjavie - 10/9/08 11:14 AM
AT&T Tilt
When will there be a new version of the AT&T Tilt?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:13 AM
Flip phones
What flip phones that are coming out should we keep an eye on? And how "smart" are flip phones capable of getting compared to whats currently on the market?
by DeezyC - 10/9/08 11:09 AM
iPhone-killer
Hi Kent, do you think the Blackberry Storm will be an iPhone-killer? And if so, why?
by Brother_Marshmallow - 10/9/08 11:09 AM
BOLD!
How great is the BlackeBerry Bold? And will the Storm ever come to AT&T?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:03 AM
Blackberry Storm
What are your first impressions of the new Blackberry Storm. Is it all it's cracked up to be?
by breck81 - 10/9/08 11:03 AM
Nokia N96
When will we see the North American version of the Nokia N96?

Also, are there plans to make 3G versions of the Nokia N85 and Samsung Innov8?
by jlinclk - 10/9/08 11:01 AM
Best Phone!
What is the best phone out there right now, present and upcoming smartphones included?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:01 AM
How to Fax MacBook - Krzr
Dear Kent,
I have a MacBook and a Motorola Krzr, both with Bluetooth. I want to be able to fax an MS Word file via Bluetooth through Krzr.

How? Thank you.
by TampaTekkie - 10/9/08 11:01 AM
BEST PHONE!
What is the best phone out there right now, present and upcoming phones included?
by Smurf286 - 10/9/08 11:00 AM
Kent German, CNET cell phone editor Live!
Ask the Editors Live: New cell phones for fall.

Our next upcoming Ask the Editors Live chat begins at 11 a.m. Pacific Time (2 p.m. Eastern), Thursday, October 9.

Our special host for this event will be CNET cell phone editor Kent German, who's been checking all the cool and hot new cell phones for the fall season. So if you have any questions about the latest and greatest or need some cell phones buying advice, join us for this live event and hit up Kent with your questions. I'm sure he'll be happy to give you all the latest cell phone low-downs.

See you at the event!
by Lee Koo (ADMIN) - 10/1/08 2:24 PM