Audiovox SMT5600 Available On AT&T Now For $199.99

[Kris Kumar]

<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.attwireless.com/cell-phone-service/cell-phones/pda-phones.jhtml?ptype=lrn' target='_blank'>http://www.attwireless.com/cell-phone-service/cell-phones/pda-phones.jhtml?ptype=lrn</a><br /><br /></div>World's smallest Windows Mobile Smartphone is now available in the US through AT&amp;T Wireless for an unbelievably low price of $199.99. 8O <br /><br /> <img src="http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/images/SMT5600.jpg" alt="User submitted image" title="User submitted image"/><br /><br />When I clicked on the link posted by our reader <i>encece</i> in <a href="http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6450">this thread,</a> I could not believe the price. The price includes $50 mail-in-rebate for 2 year service agreement and $70 instant rebate. Check out the specifications over <a href="http://www.attwireless.com/cell-phone-service/cell-phones/pop_phonedetails.jhtml?id=3100064&amp;titleNumber=8">here.</a> You may have already noticed this but in case you didn't, AT&amp;T is now offering unlimited internet for $24.99. <br /><br />Eagerly waiting to see what AT&amp;T's price will be for the MPx220. Another quick note, AT&amp;T is still carrying the MPx200 for an unbelievably <i>high</i> price of $339.99. :lol:

[gcherian]

I am really excited and looking forward to hearing live user feedback from this device. Would love to know how to unlock and use it with cingular. I am going to get it as soon as I can get my hands on one.

[Kris Kumar]

Let's see who the first one is to run down to the store and post a quick feedback. :lol: Especially the BT capability, whether Sync, File transfer and Modem works over BT or not?

[aristoBrat]

I am really excited and looking forward to hearing live user feedback from this device. Would love to know how to unlock and use it with cingular. I am going to get it as soon as I can get my hands on one.
Since it's basically a rebadged C500, I wonder if the C500 unlocking will work on it?

[Gartenberg]

I've been using one for a few weeks now. First thoughts are posted on our weblog. http://weblogs.jupiterresearch.com/analysts/gartenberg/archives/003897.html

BT works well and the device properly supports the Handsfree profile (which most cars with built in BT need, like the Acura). Sync over BT worked well and I was also able to connect to a BT GPS using PocketStreets 2005. The nice part is that this is the first phone with WM 10 Mobile (which is not an upgradeable component, it comes with the OS WM 2003 Smartphone SE, and you either have it or you don't).

[encece]

Just came back from visiting 3 AT&T Stores...none have it in stock yet. (Mount Laurel, NJ; Cherry Hill, NJ; Cherry Hill Mall, NJ;)

One said to check back after 2:00pm when they get their shipments in.

[aristoBrat]

I've been using one for a few weeks now. First thoughts are posted on our weblog. http://weblogs.jupiterresearch.com/analysts/gartenberg/archives/003897.html

Wow, I like this quote from your 'first thoughts':
Well, since WM 10 transcodes intelligently, I was able to fit four episodes of the West Wing on my phone and was able to watch them while I waited for my MRI one evening last week.
w00t

[Mike Temporale]

One said to check back after 2:00pm when they get their shipments in.

Shippments at 2:00pm? Sounds odd to me.

I would check SPT @ 2:00pm and then go to your local store. :D :wink:

[encece]

Very odd....but I'll trust him on that one. I'll post around 2:30 to give what will probably be bad news (for me) Then I'll order one online and see if I can get FedEx shipment. I dont know the meaning of the word patience.

[aristoBrat]

One said to check back after 2:00pm when they get their shipments in.

Shippments at 2:00pm? Sounds odd to me.

I would check SPT @ 2:00pm and then go to your local store. :D :wink:
Not out of the question if they arrive via UPS or FedEx. I've never seen an AT&T 18-wheeler like I have Best Buy, etc... :)

[encece]

HighBimmin posted this on MSMobiles site:

I called 7 stores in the Orlando FL area and no one has the phone. I called ATT support and they said I can only buy the phone online. So I go online but you cannot buy just the phone, you must add a contract or it wants to go to upgrade which doesnt list the phone for sale. I am pissed that they put it on the site yet I can't actually buy it. I guess I'll have to wait.....

[bugsy]

I just ordered one and was told I would have it by thursday at the latest. In regards to unlocking, the unlocking service at http://www.c500-unlock.com/ is supposed to work for all variants of this phone. I'll let everyone know how it works.

[encece]

Sample phones are out in both of the Deptford, NJ stores but no phones yet for sale. I may take a ride over later today.

[encece]

Philadelphia stores have their demos out as well...but cant confirm sellable product yet until they open their early arrival boxes...and late arriving boxes. Call back after 2:00 (AT&T's magic number!)

[mbranscum]

OK...can someone who buys this thing try the unlocking code that work with the other model??? I'm with Cingular as I suppose many others are. I want this phone!!! Any info will be appreciated.

[Bacco]

Ok guys...sorry for this goofy Q. I am concerned about the tri-band vs. a quad- band in the MPx220. Using ATT or Cingular, does it matter? I am under the impression that T-Mobile uses 900 while ATT & Cingular use 850.

Anyone with thoughts on this?

Thanks.

[encece]

The unlocking method will work on the phone as it is carrier independant.

ATT is on 1900.
Cingular is on 850 and 1900 but is dropping 1900.
After the merge they will probaqbly use both again...at least for awhile.
Quad band covers all the bases including european bands as well.

[Bacco]

Thanks encece...then this phone should not have any reception issues here in the states. Cool!!

[Mike Temporale]

Thanks encece...then this phone should not have any reception issues here in the states. Cool!!

Correct. You shouldn't have any problems.

[brianchris]

This is the one *I've* been waiting for....whoohooo!

One question: How is this unit's RF performance, compared to the MPx200, or the MPx220? TIA!!

[jkovacs]

The unlocking method will work on the phone as it is carrier independant.

ATT is on 1900.
Cingular is on 850 and 1900 but is dropping 1900.


Correction, AT&T is on 850 and 1900.

[encece]

wasnt aware they were using 850 now....well, I dont think they are in my area.

[JoshB]

The unlocking method will work on the phone as it is carrier independant.

ATT is on 1900.
Cingular is on 850 and 1900 but is dropping 1900.
After the merge they will probaqbly use both again...at least for awhile.
Quad band covers all the bases including european bands as well.Actually, ATTWS uses 850 in many areas, too, though they still have 1900 coverage. They're trying to move towards 850 since that's what their towers are spaced for (and running 1900 radios on towers spaced for 850 means coverage problems).

Also, T-Mobile uses 1900. I don't know of any U.S. provider that uses 900 - that's mostly overseas.

I'm very much interested in getting an SMT5600 and unlocking it for use on T-Mobile. You can't beat unlimited GPRS for $4.99/month on their T-Zones plan. I had my heart set on the MPX220, but with the complaints about the hinge, Bluetooth, and call volume I've been seeing, I might just go for the SMT5600 instead.

Check out my thoughts on the matter at www.tinyscreenfuls.com.

JoshB
--
Editor - www.tinyscreenfuls.com
www.geekblog.org

[Beowulf]

How do you think this stacks up against the mpx220? It has some advantages, but the mpx has the mp camera and quad band. The first releases have some minor issues, but its still possible for the mpx220 to pull way ahead with a good flash upgrade if they ever release one.

--Paul

[mja8105]

Went to the store in Austin, TX and they hadn't even heard of the phone. So I went home and called number on my bill and was able to order it that way. Supposedly they say I will have it in my hands tomorrow!

But the other interesting piece is that the girl I talked to said that the MPx220 was also showing up on her price grid with a launch of "any day now". She couldn't tell me the exact price, but I asked if it was in the same range as the SMT5600 and she said YES. So my guess is $249 also, but not sure if that is before or after a rebate...

[shaskin]

Just checked with Seattle stores. The guy I talked to said they were supposed to be in today but he hasn't seen any yet. They were getting a shipment in the afternoon, so he told me to check back later.

They might make it here first since they are headquartered here (for the moment).

I'll keep y'all posted.

[mbranscum]

I just talked with a ATT rep here in my city and she said she couldn't just sell me the phone. I have to have an account with ATT or set up one. She said they are required to attach a number to the phone. Is that correct???? Im with Cingular.

[aristoBrat]

I just talked with a ATT rep here in my city and she said she couldn't just sell me the phone. I have to have an account with ATT or set up one. She said they are required to attach a number to the phone. Is that correct???? Im with Cingular.
That is probably right.

I think everyone else that's picked up a phone (when they didn't have an account w/ that carrier, or want to create one) picked it up from a 3rd party retailer, like BestBuy or CompUSA (who add ~$150 to the price for doing this)...

[encece]

Just got off the phone with a manager from a Philadelphia store. Says they were shipped out yesterday....via ground. So they should receive them tomorrow or Thursday.

EDIT:
I give up....at least 30 phone calls today to different stores and different levels of customer service and I can not get this phone. Some stores have floor models...but that's it. The phone support people do not even have it in their system and the website does not allow me to but it while in contract. So, reluctantly, I'll have to wait until the stores get them in...which is god-only-knows-when.

[revolution.cx]

I have a shopping cart at attws configured with the phone, the unlimited data plan and a voice plan. $149.99 due today phone delivered by noon tomorrow. Hmmmm.

It was $199.99 with the cheapest voice and data plan ($27.99/month). 1 year contract.

For some reason the good voice plans aren't available with this phone. Nor will they let you configure a multi handset shared account with it either.

Certainly a lot more expensive than T-Mobile but seeing how every place I've visited this year had poor or non-existent Tmo coverage while everyone else talked happily away on their phones, perhaps it is worth it.

[seaflipper]

Yep it's true. I called my local AT&T store after ordering one from NBO and my regular sales rep called me back and said they just got 10 in today. Anyway, I went down and got one and started playing with it right away. Nice phone.

It's well built. RF is excellent so far, voice quality is really really good. Fast menus compared to the old MPx200 which I used to have.

Looking forward to using it.

[mbranscum]

seaflipper...can you give us a mini-review and mayby post a few pics later on??? :lol:

[seaflipper]

seaflipper...can you give us a mini-review and mayby post a few pics later on??? :lol:

I will try to do that for sure. Certainly I will get some pics up as soon as I take the SIM out of the 5600 and put it back in my v600 to snap some shots!

[nikjones]

This is the one *I've* been waiting for....whoohooo!

One question: How is this unit's RF performance, compared to the MPx200, or the MPx220? TIA!!

Do you mean call signal/reception?

I live in rural Wales, UK where reception can be patchy and only once lost a call where I would've been OK with my previous phone. That was a Nokia 6310i which is the best I've ever encountered, so I'd say it is pretty good.

Nik

[aristoBrat]

seaflipper...can you give us a mini-review and mayby post a few pics later on??? :lol:

I will try to do that for sure. Certainly I will get some pics up as soon as I take the SIM out of the 5600 and put it back in my v600 to snap some shots!
Snap some shots FROM the 5600 too! :)

[shaskin]

Just called the Pacific Place store in Seattle. They got 10 in, down to 4 in a couple of hours.

They got one on hold just for me... :D

[apeguero]

Just went to the Downtown Boston AT&T WS Data store and played around with the demo. They don't have it in stock yet - this seems to be the case statewide as no store has them in stock. I must tell you, it is small and comfortable to hold and use. It responded pretty quickly to all my menu commands and the screen looks ausome.

I will definately get this phone over the MPX220 at Cingular. I wanted to get the Moto phone but I think it has too many bugs and a crappy screen. I think Moto rushed to beat Audiovox and therefore made the mortal mistake of launching a faulty product.

Anyway, look at what this phone has to offer, including WMP10, as well as working Bluetooth. All for $199.99. Nice.

Now I just have to decide on what mMode phone to get my wife. They have a nice looking Sony/Ericson candybar phone that looks attractive for $79 bucks. The T637, any comments on it? I may just get her that since the V505 is a bit steep at $199.99 :)

Do you all know of a MS Money compatible program for this Smartphone software that will synch with my Money file?

[mbranscum]

While we're waiitng on the reviews to come pouring in - here's a great in depth review of the Orange SPV version....same phone. Also included in the review is a sameple video clip taken with the phone!!! :lol:

http://www.neowin.net/articles.php?action=more&id=98&perpage=1&pagenum=1

[seaflipper]

What you get in the box:

Phone, battery, belt case with magnetic closure (not bad I might add for an included case), wall charger, MiniUSB sync cable, stereo headset, CD with Outlook 2002 & manual I assume (haven't broken the seal).

*NOTE: No miniSD card is included as appears to come with the other re-branded versions.

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/10-12-04_1330.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/10-12-04_1332.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/10-12-04_1331.jpg

Phyisical quality of phone is very nice. It's solid in your hands. It's small. The keys have a good response to them, if a little bit small. I do find myself hitting the "home" key on accident instead of the "select" soft-key on ocassion, but this will be gotten used to, no big deal in my opinion.

Screen is very good. Perhaps not quite as nice as the MPx200 (at least as I remember it, it's been 6 months since I had it) and not quite as nice in some regards to my current V600 screen, but it's still VERY nice. It's clear to me that the screen has been tuned "down" for the sake of battery life. Screen is also actually readable outside, even in the sun! However, if you have polarized sunglasses like I do, it's hard to read the screen with them, but that is the case with many LCD's, I don't think that's an issue with the screen on this phone.

Call quality is excellent. I give it a 10 out of 10 so far as compared to all the cell phones I have had before. Each generation seems to get better, and this is no exception. Callers hear me loud and clear (one caller told me, and I quote "as good as it gets" about the clarity of the call). Ring tones are nice and loud, even at 4, so I know it goes higher. The vibrate on this phone is very good, it will rattle on your table.

RF seems to be strong as based upon 2 things:

a) bars (I know, not an absolute measure by any means) are often full in places where my MPx200 got 2 or 3, and it appears to get full bars when my v600 does not. As with any GSM phone, the bars are not a perfect measure of RF, but I did notice this. I think it has a better antenna.

b) calls held nice and strong today in my car in place I would expect minor breakup (downtown Seattle to be specific). AT&T has vastly improved coverage in between buildings in Seattle in the past year, but I did have a nice good quality call today in areas that have formerly given me trouble.

The true test will be over a few days and weeks. But out of the box, this beats the MPx200, no question as far as RF & Call quality go.

Speed It's fast. Much faster than the MPx200. I notice it's faster. A few lags here and there, but I don't notice the lags as much, and they are where you expect them: after waking up from sleep mode, or turning on Bluetooth, things like that. The lag is not all gone, but it's much improved so far.

mMode is FANTASTIC on this device. The new mMode stack was one of those things everyone complained about with the MPx200 (if you were an AT&T customer) and I must say it looks FABULOUS on this phone, especially the sites through mMode such as CNN etc that are specifically formatted for mMode. I think I will bump up to the unlimited mMode plan, I might actually use it! And it actually seems faster than my v600 on mMode, and faster certainly than the MPx200. It's not snappy on regular web pages as you would expect with GPRS, but not bad on pocket pages.

Tethering. I tethered this with my iPaq hx4700 with no problems. Once I got the correct dialing string for the phone it connects fast and I had no trouble connecting and checking email. The connection string to use is *99#

Camera: Well...it aint grand. But whad did you expect? :lol: I will say this, I haven't really taken any outdoors yet in good light, so it's probably going to be better in those conditions than in my office at night, but here are some shots from the camera:

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_002.jpg
A little blurry...gotta work at holding my hand really still!

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_003.jpg
Still a little blurry..keep it steady...

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_004.jpg
Ok, that's a little better. Maybe with practice it's high quality? :lol:

And for comparison, here is a shot from my V600 VGA camera of the Smartphone Thoughts website seen in picture #1 above:

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/10-12-04_2058.jpg
The v600 doesn't have a great camera, but this shows you that the SMT5600 is a tad bit worse if you compare them to each other.

Video: Fun. No idea how to convert it to use on my computer, but it will be fun for video MMS's friends who have phones that are compatible. It's actually really fun to use as a way to distract your 3 1/2 year old...

Gripes? Minor at this point. You still can't seem to configure your POP3 email through the phone unless you use AT&T's online configurator (http://www.attwireless.com/smartphone) and even that doesn't have the SMT5600 as an option yet, but the MPx200 option works fine of course for the Audiovox. Also, I can't figure out yet how to make a speed dial for just Bluetooth. I can do it for "settings" and then 2 more key presses to BT, but so far no direct BT "on and off toggle" which is what I would like. Perhaps it's there and I haven't found it yet. Also, I seem to remember a key lock (hold and press the # key?) on the MPx200 to activate key lock. Of course on a flip phone it's not a big deal, but the only way to do it now is to go through the "Quick List" menu. No big deal, but again, a few extra keystrokes.

At this point that is all I have to say. So far, so good. Looking forward to putting this to the test, but I like what I see!

Feel free to ask me questions, I will do my best to answer what I can!

EDIT: I just had to add this...I just downloaded & installed betaplayer for Smartphone:

http://betaplayer.corecodec.org

and then installed the 160x216 24fps 192Kbit/s B-Frame 2-pass XviD of the Matrix preview...all I can say is: where do I get a 1 gb miniSD! HAH, it's really great quality. Sound is very nice through the speakers. I am very impressed with that.

[cmorris]

Thanks seaflipper! Look forward to hearing more about the battery life.

Regarding the lock - try pressing and holding the "End" key...

[jfreiman]

seaflipper,

What BT profiles does the 5600 support out of the box?

[seaflipper]

Regarding the lock - try pressing and holding the "End" key...

I knew it had to be easy! :lol: Thanks!

[seaflipper]

seaflipper,

What BT profiles does the 5600 support out of the box?

I can't find a listing of everything it supports out of the box. I'll put in the CD and see what it says. The quickstart guide doesn't say very much.

But, I know it supports the "Internet" one (not sure the official Bluetooth name for that, "dial up networking" or "network access" I think) but I just now setup my Motorola HS810 BT headset and it supports "handsfree" by default. I didn't see any option to make it "headset" which is a different profile, but it's "handsfree" and I even got voice activated dialing via voice tags working. (And FYI, the voice tags setup on this is so damn easy to use compared to the MPx200...no funky push in button here!!!)

Wasn't this a problem with the MPx220 (the new one)? I don't think people could voice dial with a BT headset, right? Well youtotally can with this. Push the button on you headset, wait for the prompt, and it works. AND, the voice tags I recorded on the phone itself were easily recognized thourgh the BT headset, that's good.

[brntcrsp]

Any word on non-contract price?

[seaflipper]

If you are an AT&T customer you can get it for $249. As far as I know, AT&T doesn't sell the phone for a "non contract" price. Phones & plans or existing customers only I think. A Reseller like Best Buy might be different, but not from AT&T direct

[Mike Temporale]

Camera: Well...it aint grand. But whad did you expect? :lol: I will say this, I haven't really taken any outdoors yet in good light, so it's probably going to be better in those conditions than in my office at night, but here are some shots from the camera:

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_002.jpg
A little blurry...gotta work at holding my hand really still!

And for comparison, here is a shot from my V600 VGA camera of the Smartphone Thoughts website seen in picture #1 above:

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/10-12-04_2058.jpg
The v600 doesn't have a great camera, but this shows you that the SMT5600 is a tad bit worse if you compare them to each other.

I think the 5600 has a closer color match to the site than your v600. Blury-ness aside, the camera looks to be pretty good quality. :D

[Mike Temporale]

Gripes? Minor at this point. You still can't seem to configure your POP3 email through the phone unless you use AT&T's online configurator (http://www.attwireless.com/smartphone) and even that doesn't have the SMT5600 as an option yet, but the MPx200 option works fine of course for the Audiovox.

8O What?! There has to be a way. I know that setting up accounts on WM2003 was a little tricky, but I thought that had been improved with SE. It has to be there. It better be there. :?

Also, I can't figure out yet how to make a speed dial for just Bluetooth. I can do it for "settings" and then 2 more key presses to BT, but so far no direct BT "on and off toggle" which is what I would like. Perhaps it's there and I haven't found it yet.

Try this. Browse to the phone and locate the bluetooth application. Most likey in the windows folder. Create a shortcut to it in the start menu folder. Then you should have no problems adding it to the quick launch menu. :)

[brian_r_baker]

Any word on non-contract price?
When I bought my MPx200 last year I got it from CompUSA. They included a temporary SIM and some information on how to sign up for the service. So since I was already using T-Mobile I just never called the number (and of course never sent for the sign-up rebate).

[impulse82]

He anyone tried unlocking the sim yet and using it on Cingular or T Mobile?

[seaflipper]

Gripes? Minor at this point. You still can't seem to configure your POP3 email through the phone unless you use AT&T's online configurator (http://www.attwireless.com/smartphone) and even that doesn't have the SMT5600 as an option yet, but the MPx200 option works fine of course for the Audiovox.

8O What?! There has to be a way. I know that setting up accounts on WM2003 was a little tricky, but I thought that had been improved with SE. It has to be there. It better be there. :?

Also, I can't figure out yet how to make a speed dial for just Bluetooth. I can do it for "settings" and then 2 more key presses to BT, but so far no direct BT "on and off toggle" which is what I would like. Perhaps it's there and I haven't found it yet.

Try this. Browse to the phone and locate the bluetooth application. Most likey in the windows folder. Create a shortcut to it in the start menu folder. Then you should have no problems adding it to the quick launch menu. :)

Mike, yes, you CAN configure the email through the phone. It's very similar to how I could do it on the MPx200, it is improved, you can even setup ways to have your POP and SMTP authentication different username and passwords and domains (which is important as we all know) but the thing is, it didn't work. It only would work once I went to the AT&T site and had the configuration cab file sent to the phone, then it was fine. This might actually be a problem with AT&T and not the phone though.

Thanks for the BT advice, I will check that out. Not having the MPx200 for 6 months, I have forgotten all the little tips like that!

[encece]

I was duped into going to the AT&T store after a rep told me they had Two in stock. When I got there he apologized saying that they only had a dummy phone and a floor model.

Anyway...a Microsoft rep was there and she let me play with her

phone for a minute. I did look at WMP and along with all the new stuff it probably does, I can confirm that you can now FF and REV songs to different parts of the song.

Other than that...really nice, really small, really cool.
I took some pics with my e200 that came out very bad as I was trying to zoom in on the screen....but I did post 1 or two here on Modaco.
http://www.modaco.com/viewtopic.php?p=458364#458364

[JoshB]

He anyone tried unlocking the sim yet and using it on Cingular or T Mobile?I emailed the folks at http://www.c500-unlock.com/, and they say that since it's based on the HTC Typhoon/C500 hardware, they should be able to unlock it.

You should be able to send them your IMEI number and they can check if it can be unlocked, before you actually purchase the unlock (GBP20, or about $36 US).

[ScottDe]

Long time lurker, first time poster

I've got my FedEx tracking number, so the 5600 should be here tomorrow before 3 PM. I'll post my comments tomorrow night.

Scott

[bugsy]

I got my phone today and what a great device. Tried the online unlocking and the process has put my phone into an unbootable state. I'm currently working with the unlocking team and they're trying to figure out what happened. They've been very responsive and I'm keeping my fingers crossed they can correct it. I'll keep everyone updated.

[Kris Kumar]

Long time lurker, first time poster

Welcome, more the merrier ;-)

Thanks for volunteering to share the first impressions.

We appreciate the feedback the readers have been posting on our site. Its helpful. I can say that because I am haven't been able to buy an MPx220 for myself. And cannot buy the SMT5600 because I can't switch to AT&T. :-( So the feedback will help me decide between the MPx220 or unlocked SMT5600 or SP3i.

[mar2k]

Can someone with the phone tell me how much AT&T customization is on the phone itself? I'm talking splash screens, icons for things like mMode, AT&T specific commands etc. I noticed that the phone comes in an Audiovox box rather than an ATTWS customized box, so I was curious about how much ATTWS software and logos are actually in the phone itself.

I am potentially interested in unlocking this for Cingular, so I am also interested in seeing if the phone can be unlocked, so keep us posted on that front.

I figure if I can get this phone for $149-199, I'll just terminate the contract early for $175 fee and that's still a good price for this phone.

[seaflipper]

Can someone with the phone tell me how much AT&T customization is on the phone itself? I'm talking splash screens, icons for things like mMode, AT&T specific commands etc. I noticed that the phone comes in an Audiovox box rather than an ATTWS customized box, so I was curious about how much ATTWS software and logos are actually in the phone itself.

I am potentially interested in unlocking this for Cingular, so I am also interested in seeing if the phone can be unlocked, so keep us posted on that front.

I figure if I can get this phone for $149-199, I'll just terminate the contract early for $175 fee and that's still a good price for this phone.

There is no AT&T logo on the outside of the phone. I just noticed that.

The branding that is in the software is pretty unobtrusive. It's AT&T color scheme by default, that is easy to change. The home page is AT&T default, but that too is easy to change. The "dial screen" has "AT&T Wireless" stamped across the top, but that too is not difficult to change (there are lots of tools out there now to change this kind of stuff).

mMode is a built in email option, not sure if you can delete that or not, but it's not overly obtrusive.

All in all, it's branded yes, but it's not overwhelming.

[seaflipper]

Here is another sample shot taken out the window of my office. Not half bad, in fact, when I got my v600 I took this same shot for the same reason (testing) and I would say that in this case the SMT5600 has produced a better picture, more accurate colors, sharper focus on far away objects. I think I will leave my opinion on the quality of this until after I have taken more outdoor and "real life" use shots instead of just test shots. This is for sure though, this certainly will be good quality for MMS & picture caller ID, which is it's purpose after all.

http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_005.jpg

And another one for fun:
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_006.jpg[/img]

[rvacha]

Here is another sample shot taken out the window of my office.

Is that where seaflipper, ummm.... goes flipping?

[seaflipper]

Here is another sample shot taken out the window of my office.

Is that where seaflipper, ummm.... goes flipping?

Yeah, that's my 124' Delta Marine in the front...going to go for a spin on the lake right now :lol:

[Mike Temporale]

Here is another sample shot taken out the window of my office. Not half bad,

Nice. I'm liking this camera more and more.

[seaflipper]

I also just realized that there are 4 settings of quality with the camera. The pictures I have taken so are are "fine". I am going to take some "Super Fine" and some of the lower quality ones and post them here later tonight.

[gcherian]

Can any check if this phone app locked? I believe mpx200 was not but can anyone check by installing an unsigned application ? Or any other method - which you are comfortable with ?

Thanks,

George

[choo_choo]

It seems that the max SD card size is 256MB. Can anyone confirm this?

I just ordered a 5600 and a 512MB mini-SD card. :-(

Also, I'd be interested to know if anyone has succesfully unlocked their 5600.

thanks.

[seaflipper]

Can any check if this phone app locked? I believe mpx200 was not but can anyone check by installing an unsigned application ? Or any other method - which you are comfortable with ?

Thanks,

George

I don't think it's app locked. I installed Betaplayer, and it asked if I was sure I wanted to install it, i think the message was something about it it being an unsigned app. The only difference on install I have had with this and the MPx200 is that confirmation message. I guess it's good to warn you that it's an unsigned app, but kind of annying when the cab files that the ATTWS site sends you to configure your phone (and that site is run by Microsoft) draw the message!

[seaflipper]

Here are some more shots from today, outside shots. Taken around 6:30 PM or so. There are 4 quality settings:

Basic, Normal, Fine, SuperFine. I tried to take 4 shots of my son in the same position, same background etc, but he wanted to play baseball so it was tough to get him to cooperate 100%, but oh well..I think you get the idea:

"Basic" Quality
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_017.jpg

"Normal" Quality
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_016.jpg

"Fine" Quality (the default when you get the phone)
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_015.jpg

"SuperFine" Quality
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_014.jpg

I personally think these pics look pretty good. I think that they are much better than my v600 shots now, especially at the superfine setting. It's not a huge difference between the low and high quality, but the superfine is certainly sharper and more color accurate I think.

The key I think with this camera is to have good lighting. While of course always paramount with any type of camera, the optics of camera phone camera's in particular are very touchy.

In addition to quality settings, the camera also includes an "Ambience" menu which includes these items:

1 Auto
2 Daylight
3 Incadescent
4 Fluorescent
5 Night

6 Grayscale
7 Sepia
8 Cool

9 Adjust View

The "adjust view" option lets you micro adjust the Brightness, Saturation, Hue, and Gamma and includes a 1 button "restore default" which resets ALL "adjust view" settings back to default, not just the view you are adjusting on your screen. Nice touch.

Here is a shot I took with the "Night" mode. (I wish I would have done a "auto" and "night" comparison, but I didn't think of it until just now!
http://home.comcast.net/~tfitchw/IMAGE_018.jpg

In this shot, when I viewed my daughter thorugh the camera in auto mode, I could hardly see her. It wasn't dark yet but it was approaching twilight, I think this turned out pretty good for a camera phone![/u]

[karlth]

Just bought the I-Mate SP3 and must say that I'm very pleased with it.

So if you have any questions about the device then fire away.

[Mike Temporale]

It seems that the max SD card size is 256MB. Can anyone confirm this?

I just ordered a 5600 and a 512MB mini-SD card. :-(

Also, I'd be interested to know if anyone has succesfully unlocked their 5600.

thanks.

I don't think you'll have any problems. At the time the manual was written, 256 was the largest card, and manufacturers tend to just put that value in. You'll be fine. Don't worry.

Where did you order the Mini SD from?

[Mike Temporale]

Just bought the I-Mate SP3 and must say that I'm very pleased with it.

So if you have any questions about the device then fire away.

I got one... Where did you buy that from?

[choo_choo]

It seems that the max SD card size is 256MB. Can anyone confirm this?

I just ordered a 5600 and a 512MB mini-SD card. :-(

Also, I'd be interested to know if anyone has succesfully unlocked their 5600.

thanks.

I don't think you'll have any problems. At the time the manual was written, 256 was the largest card, and manufacturers tend to just put that value in. You'll be fine. Don't worry.

Where did you order the Mini SD from?

I got the 512 mini-SD from newegg.com for $53 & $3.99 shipping. What a deal! :P

[Mike Temporale]

I think this turned out pretty good for a camera phone!

NICE! I think all of those pictures turned out pretty good. I will agree with your comments on lighting. It seems to take much better pictures outdoors or under good strong light sources. (based on the pictures you've shared).

I'm starting to get really excited about this phone... :D

[vactor]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

[choo_choo]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

Here's the link: http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-219-205&depa=0

They're out of stock! :cry: They were in stock last night!

[Mike Temporale]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

Here's the link: http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-219-205&depa=0

They're out of stock! :cry: They were in stock last night!

Um, choo_choo... That's a regular SD card. They just used the name "Mobile Mini" on the card. It's not actually a mini SD card. If you can, I would cancel that order asap.

[Mike Temporale]

Check out this thread (http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6171) for a picture of a miniSD card. There is even a couple links to cheap mini sd cards in that thread too.

:)

[seaflipper]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

Yeah, Newegg doesn't sell any miniSD's right now.

I bought a 256 miniSD from ZipZoomFly for $38 including free 2nd day air shipping:

http://www.zipzoomfly.com/jsp/ProductDetail.jsp?ProductCode=82412

I will have it tommorrow

[choo_choo]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

Here's the link: http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-219-205&depa=0

They're out of stock! :cry: They were in stock last night!

Um, choo_choo... That's a regular SD card. They just used the name "Mobile Mini" on the card. It's not actually a mini SD card. If you can, I would cancel that order asap.

oooohhhh! duh! In my rush to place the order I didn't notice the difference. What a bummer! Gotta call newegg right away...

[seaflipper]

Quick update on battery life.

So far, so very good.

I got this phone on Tuesday. The battery was almost full when I got it, it only took about 20 minutes to fully charge. Since then I have played with the phone quite a bit obviously.

Since that initial charge I have yet to pull the wall charger back out of the box!! And right now I am at 3 out of 4 bars of battery life.

However, before you get too excited about that, I must say that I haven't had the phone on continually for nearly 48 hours and it's only gone down 1 out of 4 bars :lol: (that would be TOO good) but here's the deal

a) I have turned the phone off each night, so knock off 7 hours a night off (14 hours total) so it has been on for 34 hours.

b) And I have had the phone synced up for probably about 1 to 1 1/2 hours total, during which time it was charging of course.

Last night the battery meter did get down to 2 bars, but on syncing up it went right back up to 3 bars and it has stayed there since last night and turning it on again this morning.

Having gone through 3 different MPx200's because of battery issues, I can tell you that so far the battery life on the SMT5600 is miles ahead. At this point with and MPx200 I would have probably charged it fully twice. I haven't kept BT on continuously, only for periods of time while I use it. I probably will try just keeping it on full time for a couple of days to see how much that eats battery life, but so far so good!

[karlth]

Just bought the I-Mate SP3 and must say that I'm very pleased with it.

So if you have any questions about the device then fire away.

I got one... Where did you buy that from?

I'm Icelandic so doubt it will help you much but I got it from MPhone.co.uk, an UK online retailer.

[aristoBrat]

Seaflipper, thanks for taking the time to post your pictures (cute kids!) and 5600 observations!

[porbe]

Here's a 512 minisd. It's the only one I could find.

http://www.computerhq.com/ATP_512MB_Mini_Secure_AF512MD/hardware/partinfo-id-501048.html

Found another one.

http://www.flash-memory-store.com/toshiba-512mb-mini-secure-digital.html

[ric0chet]

Hey all -

Anybody successfully unlocked an SMT5600 yet? I'm eager to pick one up, but until I know it's been unlocked successfully, it seems pointless, since I'm not about to drop T-Mobile for AT&T.

Also ... any other locations where people have found the phones in stock @ AT&T stores? I'm not sure if I want to call around to all the stores again today ... they're probably getting sick of me :oops: calling every day.

-Steve

[porbe]

I'm leaving now to get mine here in Alpharetta, GA.

[pattywatty]

I just received the smt5600 and am currently a TMo customer. I have gone to the link for the unlock code that was listed on page 6 of this thread. It states that billing will be initiated when clicking on the link to the phone you are attempting to unlock. The next screen prompts you to enter your imei number which i did and I hit continue. It appears to just reload the same page. I then downloaded the unlock .exe file and save it to my computer. I followed the instructions (i.e., turning phone off, holding the camera button and pluging in the usb cable. This did give me the 3 color screen shown on the website. I then clicked on the .exe file I downloaded and it recognized the phone as "Typhoon" and then prompted me for the key which goes with the imei number. Problem is I don't see where to send payment or anything to get the key. I have sent 3 emails to the support address without any reply.

Anyone else have any ideas?

[aristoBrat]

I don't know when you sent your emails, but AFAIK, that's a UK-based website, so they may have already left for the day.

How did you get the phone as a T-Mobile customer? Did you have to sign up for AT&T service and plan on cancelling it later?

[ScottDe]

I received my 5600 from AT&T today. I ordered it on Tuesday and they shipped it overnight yesterday.

This device is so small! It's smaller than my Nokia 3390... shorter, thinner and much lighter.

The screen is plenty big for what I want... a Microsoft synch device that I can occasionaly do an email or browse with.

I'll post more comments after I get home and get a chance to play with it.

Scott

[pattywatty]

Aristobrat - I sent the first one around noon so you're right, they may have already left for the day. I bought as a new ATT customer. I was able to sign up for just one year on the unlimited plan and a 39.99 voice plan and they only charged me $149.99 with fedex shipping included. I thought I would try their service and coverage for a week or so and maybe switch over. BUT, if I can unlock and use Tmo's unlimited Tzones for $4.99 than I would much rather do that and just pay the $175 early term fee. Even with the early term fee of $175 and cost of phone for $150 and prorated service for 1/4 of a month, I am still at about $350 instead of $450 for the sp3 via expansys-usa.

Hopefully they will get back to me tomorrow and I can see if the unlock process works...

[chop69]

i cannot find ANY minsd cards on the newegg.com site. can you link me? i am ready and raring to buy a 512mb minisd card for my to-be-delivered-today 'Vox 5600 !!! thanks!!

Here's the link: http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-219-205&depa=0

They're out of stock! :cry: They were in stock last night!

Um, choo_choo... That's a regular SD card. They just used the name "Mobile Mini" on the card. It's not actually a mini SD card. If you can, I would cancel that order asap.


oooohhhh! duh! In my rush to place the order I didn't notice the difference. What a bummer! Gotta call newegg right away...

Don't worry, you aren't the only one who made that mistake, luckily I got mine canceled in time. I sent NewEgg an Email saying they probably should redo the title on those.

[wi_vet_rider]

I just got my SMT5600 and I already have a major issue.

If you lock the keypad by holding 'end', then try to initiate a voice dialing command via pressing the button on your bluetooth headset (I have the Moto HS810) it does not work!

Any suggestions???

[ric0chet]

Ok, I found an SMT at the Citrus Heights store after making a handful of calls. interestingly, it was one of the few stores that *didn't* have a demo phone out on the floor, but they had 3 or 4 in stock. Another store (Fair Oaks Blvd.) I called had gotten them on tuesday but sold out almost immediately.

This is a nice phone. Feels really solid, nice weight, looks good. It's charging now. My MPX200 looks kinda tacky and unfinished next to it.

I've tried the www.c500unlock.com site and am having the same issue that pattywatty is having. Grrr ... well, I guess that gives it time to charge and to sync it and for me to learn some of the features and all of that.

FYI, it's definitely cheaper to get it online than at the retail store - the last $50 of that $120 discount is online-only. I *was* told that I can cancel within 30 days with no ETF. That's what I did with my MPX200, and I was never charged the difference between the contract & retail price...

-Steve

[bsic]

Im a current ATT cust, and see the offer for $199 on thier website... when I go to order, it lets me choose between a 1 or 2 yr commit, with no difference in price. ?!?!!? What am i missing? Who would voluntarily grab a 2 yr handcuff when a 1yr gives the same price for the upgrade?


Im reading all of these posts and reviews and drooooooling!!! Ive had an mpx200 for about 1.5yrs, and am ready to dump it as this is the 3rd warranty exchange Ive had for it. Was looking the last few weeks at a replacement and nothing caught my eye- and the thought of dumping WM was killing me- I love the OS. And voila- here's the best replacement I can think of!

[bigneeker]

ric0chet: are you sure that you can cancel your account with no etf before 30 days?
if that is true then it would be a sweet deal to get it online.
how did you configure it to receive the -$50 off.

thanks

[JoshB]

The www.c500-unlock.com site is having issues because they use PayPal for their payment system, and PayPal has been having system outages for going on 5 days now. It should be resolved soon (at least, according to a notice on the site I saw yesterday).

Also, I emailed them asking if they will be able to unlock this phone, and they said yes, since it's based on the HTC Typhoon/C500.

[encece]

Got my phone today at ATT in Cherry Hill, NJ.
LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT! :D

[vactor]

damnit. SO mad that i did not get the phone delivered today. seems i have no recourse either. damn, will have to wait until tomorrow. can't wait

[cmorris]

I have gone to the link for the unlock code that was listed on page 6 of this thread. [...]

I would HIGHLY not recommend trying to unlock the Audiovox using C500 unlocking sites. Of course they are going to tell you that it will work!

There are several reports of people having their phones rendered unusable by trying this. :!:

[jspear]

I am really excited and looking forward to hearing live user feedback from this device. Would love to know how to unlock and use it with cingular. I am going to get it as soon as I can get my hands on one.
Since it's basically a rebadged C500, I wonder if the C500 unlocking will work on it?

Currently, the c500 unlock tool will cause your device to report 'Data Crashes' and will require a return to the manufacturer for repair.

The tool appears to put Orange valid unlock codes onto the device, which are incompatible with the AWS image.

John Spear

[cmorris]

I just got my SMT5600 and I already have a major issue.

If you lock the keypad by holding 'end', then try to initiate a voice dialing command via pressing the button on your bluetooth headset (I have the Moto HS810) it does not work!

Any suggestions???

Unfortunately this is a known issue. I haven't heard of any way around it. Oh well, it can't be perfect! :P

[cmorris]

Im a current ATT cust, and see the offer for $199 on thier website... when I go to order, it lets me choose between a 1 or 2 yr commit, with no difference in price. ?!?!!? What am i missing? Who would voluntarily grab a 2 yr handcuff when a 1yr gives the same price for the upgrade?


I had the same question... :roll:

I doubt we're missing anything. AT&T has so many oddities and contradictions in its ordering process (web vs. store, etc.) that I'll bet they're just hoping you won't change the default.

Any word on when it ships? Mine is still "processing"...

[JoshB]

I am really excited and looking forward to hearing live user feedback from this device. Would love to know how to unlock and use it with cingular. I am going to get it as soon as I can get my hands on one.
Since it's basically a rebadged C500, I wonder if the C500 unlocking will work on it?

Currently, the c500 unlock tool will cause your device to report 'Data Crashes' and will require a return to the manufacturer for repair.

The tool appears to put Orange valid unlock codes onto the device, which are incompatible with the AWS image.

John SpearOuch.

Make sure you post here if you find a way of successfully unlocking your SMT5600!

[encece]

They're at the stores now...I bought mine today.

Some quickies:

Makes my e200 seem like a brick.
For some reason I thought it had a flash....must have been thinking of the Mpx220.

WMP10 is nice...I'll try it out at home tonight.

GAPI issue that is present on the C500 is not present here as far as I can tell as the game Eclipse works just fine.

No extra software on disk added.

Switching between T9, 123, abc is different.
Tapping the * key now scroll thru abc, Abc, ABC, t9, T9, T9, 123
Holding the * key will pop up options for sybmols, 123, Abc, T9 English, German, French or Spanish.

When typing a word and pausing a popup box appears with choices for the whole word or the option to add a word.

Under Inbox...
There seems to be a new plugin for Email/MMS combined
SMS is now called Text Messages
ActiveSync mail is now called Outlook E-Mail
MMS
There is also something called mMode Mail which seems to be IMAP mail at ATTWIRELESS.com

You can request text message delivery notifications when sending mail. (Not sure if that was an option before.)

[karlth]

Anyone having problems with the phone's incall volume dropping to a minimum during a call(especially during the beginning) before restoring to normal levels?

[jfreiman]

Anyone having problems with the phone's incall volume dropping to a minimum during a call(especially during the beginning) before restoring to normal levels?

I just got my 5600 today (att wireless internet) and while I haven't had the problem you are describing, I am getting fluctuating signal strength where calls come in and out - kinda choppy.

These are areas where my Nokia (8290) and Sony/Eriksson (614) had no problems.

Really strange and I hope it's temporary.

[apeguero]

Im a current ATT cust, and see the offer for $199 on thier website... when I go to order, it lets me choose between a 1 or 2 yr commit, with no difference in price. ?!?!!? What am i missing? Who would voluntarily grab a 2 yr handcuff when a 1yr gives the same price for the upgrade?


I had the same question... :roll:

I doubt we're missing anything. AT&T has so many oddities and contradictions in its ordering process (web vs. store, etc.) that I'll bet they're just hoping you won't change the default.

Any word on when it ships? Mine is still "processing"...

You get Unlimited National Mobile to Mobile with the 2 Year, plus if you get a 59.99 and higher plan your nights start at 7PM instead of 9PM. I just decided to go 2 years and GSM 800 with unlimited data. The unlimited data reduces the price of the phone to $149.99 from $199.99.

I got my wife a V505 with the Local GSM 600 and mMode Mega for 10.99. Adding all this stuff up I'm looking at paying around $150.00 per month before my Military benies kick in which should lower it. But, being that we don't have a land line and I use my phone constantly for everything in the world, I think this would do for now.

This should work really nice too after Cingular joins AT&T. Please don't tell me I can go cheaper :) BTW, I love this phone and don't regret getting it before the MPX220. I got the V505 for free too from www.letstalkwireless.com. What do you all think of the V505?

Also, Can any of you please suggest a good smartphone program I can use to synch my MS Money file with? It doesn't look as if MS has Money for Smartphone yet. I used the PPC version with my old HP 2200 and it worked great.

Thanks.

[apeguero]

Here's a 512 minisd. It's the only one I could find.

http://www.computerhq.com/ATP_512MB_Mini_Secure_AF512MD/hardware/partinfo-id-501048.html

Found another one.

http://www.flash-memory-store.com/toshiba-512mb-mini-secure-digital.html

Look at what I found:

http://www.pricegrabber.com/search_gen_top.php?topcat_search=1&form_keyword=mini+secure&found=

Here too:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=SASDM256MB&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=331282

[apeguero]

Here's a 512 minisd. It's the only one I could find.

http://www.computerhq.com/ATP_512MB_Mini_Secure_AF512MD/hardware/partinfo-id-501048.html

Found another one.

http://www.flash-memory-store.com/toshiba-512mb-mini-secure-digital.html

I thought 256mb was the top ceiling for this device as far as memory was concerned. Can it read a 512mb card? Or will it only read 256mb of that 512mb card?

[pattywatty]

I finally received response from the folks at unlock-c500. They said at this time it is unsafe to unlock as they have had to downgrade one they recently tried. I don't know exactly what that means. They said I would need at least a 64Mb minisd card and card reader to read the firmware in order to help them work faster. Again, I am not sure what that means. I am now a little tempted to just cancel this phone and buy the unlocked version through expansys-usa.

What do you guys think?

[seven]

Hi I'm kind of new to this so forgive me if this doesn't make any sense. :D

I've got AT&T and am considering getting the 5600 but I have a few questions about the whole wireless internet thing since I've never used it.

1. If I get the $24.95 unlimited data plan, the minutes won't count against my voice plan will they? (I'm a little scared because I read on another board of someone getting a Treo 600 and getting their first bill and it being $1,600 8O )

2. I can't really imagine doing lots of web browsing or anything on such a tiny screen. Since it has Bluetooth, could my Bluetooth PDA connect to the internet through it?

Thanks in advance,
Seven

[karlth]

I just got my 5600 today (att wireless internet) and while I haven't had the problem you are describing, I am getting fluctuating signal strength where calls come in and out - kinda choppy.


It could well be the signal strength that is fluctuating and not the volume on my phone as well. The effect though is that the voice level decreases sometimes for a few seconds.

[Mike Temporale]

Look at what I found:

http://www.pricegrabber.com/search_gen_top.php?topcat_search=1&form_keyword=mini+secure&found=

Here too:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=SASDM256MB&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=331282

First link is not MiniSD. Not sure about the second as it won't load for me.

[porbe]

I'm not sure if it will read a 512 card but I don't imagine that it would be a problem. I ordered a 256 because it was less than half the price of the 512 ($40 vs. $110). Once the 512 drops I'll grab one.

If someone has a 512 could you let us know if it can be read properly?

BTW - I was told I have a one year contract instead of a two year one. I also got the phone for $150 at the ATT store here which is supposed to be an online only price (w/rebate). He wanted to give it to me for $200 and I said that I'd just order it online to save the $50. He gladly adjusted the price. :D

This is my first smartphone and I absolutely love it. I came from a V60t which I liked but was very feature poor. My antenna broke so I had to get a new phone.

Likes
- Sound quality nice and loud
- Reception seems better than my V60t
- Media player sound and image is excellent (mp3s play flawlessly)
- Expandable storage is a must have IMHO (miniSD is amazingly small for the storage)
- Screen is bright
- USB charging (no carrying around a power cord anymore!)
- Interface is pretty fast
- All the other stuff that smartphones have

Dislikes
- Joystick thing is cumbersome to scroll sideways but very usable
- Camera is a little jerky (when in night mode but that's not a huge deal since I have a digital camera for when I want real pictures)
- miniSD card is under the battery (no hot swapping???)

[bugsy]

Ok folks here is the latest on unlocking on C500. I was the person who had the phone rendered unusable. I've been working with the developer to fix the issue, but he needed to have a copy of the rom image from a phone from before the problem occurred. I've got a replacement phone and will be working with him to extract the rom image so he can determine the problem. Although there is no solution at the moment I can say the developer has been exceptional in his responsiveness. I worked with him until 2AM his time the day the problem occurred. Truly exceptional customer support. Given his track record and reputation on other forum boards I would expect he will determine a way to unlock this phone shortly. Anyway truly a first class individual.

[rvacha]

I'm not sure if it will read a 512 card but I don't imagine that it would be a problem. I ordered a 256 because it was less than half the price of the 512 ($40 vs. $110). Once the 512 drops I'll grab one.

If someone has a 512 could you let us know if it can be read properly?



Yes, it will definitely read a 512MB card. The one I bought was marketed by ATP and manufactured by Toshiba. It came with a little carrier/adapter that allows you to use it a normal SD slot - very cool.

The phone is great. For those of you that have WMP10 for XP, I recommend using that to dump music onto the phone. Doing so will automatically dump album art onto the phone, which is automatically displayed when you play the associated music. Other nice touches: FF and rewind (finally!) and the backlight turns on momentarily every time a new song starts so you can see what's playing. Very nice

BTW the 5600's USB is 1.1 so filling a 512MB card is SLOW.

[apeguero]

I finally received response from the folks at unlock-c500. They said at this time it is unsafe to unlock as they have had to downgrade one they recently tried. I don't know exactly what that means. They said I would need at least a 64Mb minisd card and card reader to read the firmware in order to help them work faster. Again, I am not sure what that means. I am now a little tempted to just cancel this phone and buy the unlocked version through expansys-usa.

What do you guys think?

I spoke to an AT&T rep last night and asked him exactly that question. He was very confident in his answer when he said the data plan is seperate from the voice plan. He said all online activity goes torwards the data plan. if you have an unlimited data plan ($24.99), then online access won't count against your voice minutes, and vice-versa. Makes sence to me. Anyone out there disagree with this? I'm going to call AT&T again today and ask to speak to a Supervisor to make sure I get the absolute answer on this as I want to make sure I don't get a $500.00 bill for surfing too much :)

[aristoBrat]

I finally received response from the folks at unlock-c500. They said at this time it is unsafe to unlock as they have had to downgrade one they recently tried. I don't know exactly what that means. They said I would need at least a 64Mb minisd card and card reader to read the firmware in order to help them work faster. Again, I am not sure what that means. I am now a little tempted to just cancel this phone and buy the unlocked version through expansys-usa.

What do you guys think?
I think what the other guy said -- it's just a matter of a few more days before they've got it 100%.

By "downgrade", they mean that if the AT&T firmware image on the SMT5600 gets hosed, you can put on firmware from IMATE (who makes the same model phone, just call it something different). It's a downgrade in that it's not AT&T customized, and doesn't have Windows Media 10.

[apeguero]

Look at what I found:

http://www.pricegrabber.com/search_gen_top.php?topcat_search=1&form_keyword=mini+secure&found=

Here too:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=SASDM256MB&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=331282

First link is not MiniSD. Not sure about the second as it won't load for me.

First link is for a pricegrabber.com hit on a mini SD search. It lists 3 cards of which the first and third are SD while the second is Mini SD and shows a bunch of prices in the $30-$40 range from different retailers.

The second link is what I found to be the best deal of the search result from the first link which is a 256mb mini SD card from B&H in NY for $39.95.

[Mike Temporale]

First link is for a pricegrabber.com hit on a mini SD search. It lists 3 cards of which the first and third are SD while the second is Mini SD and shows a bunch of prices in the $30-$40 range from different retailers.

The second link is what I found to be the best deal of the search result from the first link which is a 256mb mini SD card from B&H in NY for $39.95.

Sorry, you're right. I didn't notice the second one since it's missing a thumbnail image.

[efliv]

Hey,

I went to the ATT store yesterday to check out the phone, and I have to admit it's pretty sweet, but I was wondering if those who already have the phone could breakdown the benefits of it.

I've got a t610 on T-mobile right now and I'm interested in the phone but not really in switching to ATT. My concern is that basically other than web browsing and multimedia, what does the phone offer? I've got an ipod for music and I don't see myself writing a lot of email with out a QWERTY keyboard. Also, when I tested the device the browser seemed awfully slow. I recently tested out the Sidekick II (too big and too much of a closed system) and it's web browser was significantly faster (although that may be due to the proxy servers t-mobile sets up to configure the pages to the device).

So basically can anyone with the device give me some info on what added functionality they like in the device and if anyone in the NYC area has any comments on ATT's data speeds or services that would be cool too.

FYI, I'm thinking about waiting for the Treo 650 but the 5600 or maybe the nokia 6670 would be a better call for size reasons (just have to figure out whether to go with windows or symbian).

Thanks,

Eddie

[pattywatty]

Bugsy - do you already have a card and reader? I didn't have either and just ordered today (figuring I would need both eventualy anyway). I am just curious if you will be first in getting him the ROM image.

Thanks

[jfreiman]

Does anyone have any recommendations on a replacement headset for the 5600? The one which comes with the unit is kinda cheap/light feeling, the cables are not rubberized and slip out of my ears easily.

I'd like a corded one for stereo output.

Any suggestions?

[aristoBrat]

Bugsy - do you already have a card and reader? I didn't have either and just ordered today (figuring I would need both eventualy anyway). I am just curious if you will be first in getting him the ROM image.

Thanks
LOL -- same question here. I was bummed out that none of the local retailers (Best Buy/Circuit City/etc) carry any on the miniSD cards. :(

I broke down and bought a 5600 from AT&T -- should be delivered shortly. I'll have to unlock it to use w/ T-Mobile.

[pattywatty]

AristoBrat - are you just going to terminate and pay the $175? Are you locked into T-Mo? I am month to month right now and the coverage here in the DC area has been pretty good. My only gripe is that the cost of the data @$24.99. And if you want Corp Email, you pay extra. With TMo, you can get TZones pro for $9.99 and this allows you to get Corp Email by downloading the secure mail connector and syncing via internet. Oh well...

[pattywatty]

FYI - I also found out that if you add the SMT5600 to your cart and chose only the $12.99 data plan and one year voice plan, you still get the phone for $150. I'm not sure how much 'light browsing' adds up on MMode or internet...

[aristoBrat]

AristoBrat - are you just going to terminate and pay the $175? Are you locked into T-Mo? I am month to month right now and the coverage here in the DC area has been pretty good. My only gripe is that the cost of the data @$24.99. And if you want Corp Email, you pay extra. With TMo, you can get TZones pro for $9.99 and this allows you to get Corp Email by downloading the secure mail connector and syncing via internet. Oh well...
My plan is to cancel AT&T within the 30-day window (which doesn't involve the $175 EFT) and see if they go back and charge me extra for the phone.

I'm locked into T-Mo for two more months on my contact. The only other GSM provider in my area is SunCom (which has no SmartPhone selection), so I'm "locked in" for other reasons too. LOL I heard that SunCom is switching to Cingular in this area. I really do love T-Mobile, but it'll be nice to have a nationwide competitor in the area.

[cmorris]

So basically can anyone with the device give me some info on what added functionality they like in the device

To get the full value out of this device, you really need to use its PIM features and sync w/ Outlook (particularly nice if your company uses Exchange). Even without that though, it is nice to have sync'ed contacts, calendar, tasks, notes between your PC and phone.

Writing mail is not fun for sure but it is nice for quick replies, and I find it useful to be able to read the mail for example if someone e-mails you directions.

It gets even better if you start installing 3rd party programs on it through ActiveSync. For example:

- CodeWallet Pro: lets me carry around all my various ID info, not to mention usernames/passwords that I always forget

- ListPro: handy list making app

- Weather: get the weather forecast anytime

- Pocket Streets: full maps of my local area, find addresses, restaurants, etc.

[revolution.cx]

(re Treo)So basically can anyone with the device give me some info on what added functionality they like in the device and if anyone in the NYC area has any comments on ATT's data speeds or services that would be cool too.

Eddie

When I leave the house it's wallet, keys, sunglasses, phone. And, cool, my phone does all sorts of useful things.

Every other PDA type device I've had (wireless or not) I've always thought of as an additional thing to bring and many times it gets left at home.

So my Smartphone is always with me which basically puts a 5x or 10x in front of any feature it has. Does that make sense?

The one thing you aren't going to be doing with it is writing any messages longer than a short SMS. You can in a pinch but T9 only goes so far, IMO.

[JoshB]

For those wondering if data usage will take up voice minutes, the answer is absolutely not. This phone uses GPRS for wireless data, which is packet switched, not circuit switched. What this means is that it's always on, and is metered by how many packets/bytes get sent. That's why GPRS data plans are either unlimited, or 1MB/5MB/10MB etc.

If you get an unlimited GPRS data plan, you will never have to worry about surfing too much and getting charged extra. If you get a MB-based plan, you might get charged if you use too many MB, but it doesn't matter how many "minutes" you're connected.

[choo_choo]

Hey,

I went to the ATT store yesterday to check out the phone, and I have to admit it's pretty sweet, but I was wondering if those who already have the phone could breakdown the benefits of it.

I've got a t610 on T-mobile right now and I'm interested in the phone but not really in switching to ATT. My concern is that basically other than web browsing and multimedia, what does the phone offer? I've got an ipod for music and I don't see myself writing a lot of email with out a QWERTY keyboard. Also, when I tested the device the browser seemed awfully slow. I recently tested out the Sidekick II (too big and too much of a closed system) and it's web browser was significantly faster (although that may be due to the proxy servers t-mobile sets up to configure the pages to the device).

So basically can anyone with the device give me some info on what added functionality they like in the device and if anyone in the NYC area has any comments on ATT's data speeds or services that would be cool too.

FYI, I'm thinking about waiting for the Treo 650 but the 5600 or maybe the nokia 6670 would be a better call for size reasons (just have to figure out whether to go with windows or symbian).

Thanks,

Eddie

I've heard the Opera web browser is much faster than IE.
http://my.opera.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=69630
Can't say anything about the relative speed of the AT&T GPRS network.

[iJITSU]

If you are an AT&T customer you can get it for $249. As far as I know, AT&T doesn't sell the phone for a "non contract" price. Phones & plans or existing customers only I think. A Reseller like Best Buy might be different, but not from AT&T direct

Actually, I walked into an AT&T store and bought one outright for $346.39 with tax. I just told them I wanted to pay full retail and try it out and that if it fit my needs I'd re-activate an old ATT account I had. I did have an account before, so it was mostly true. In reality, I'll first be looking to unlock it and if I can't then I'll consider reactivating the account. BTW, if you really want to just buy it from ATT, you can catch a customer going in and offer them $20 to use your credit card and buy it for you. Done deal. I LOVE THIS PHONE. Hope I can get it unlocked.

[iJITSU]

Bugsy - do you already have a card and reader? I didn't have either and just ordered today (figuring I would need both eventualy anyway). I am just curious if you will be first in getting him the ROM image.

Thanks
LOL -- same question here. I was bummed out that none of the local retailers (Best Buy/Circuit City/etc) carry any on the miniSD cards. :(

I broke down and bought a 5600 from AT&T -- should be delivered shortly. I'll have to unlock it to use w/ T-Mobile.

Hey, FYI- I picked up a 256 mini SD card with adapter for SD slots for $50 at Best Buy.

[aristoBrat]

Hey, FYI- I picked up a 256 mini SD card with adapter for SD slots for $50 at Best Buy.
Thanks, I'll go look for myself. I called earlier and they were a bit confused about what miniSD was at my local store...

[iJITSU]

Hey, FYI- I picked up a 256 mini SD card with adapter for SD slots for $50 at Best Buy.
Thanks, I'll go look for myself. I called earlier and they were a bit confused about what miniSD was at my local store...

Yep, I was there looking at the mpx220 and the guy mentioned that they had a memory card that "went with it" and tada!

Works fine with the 5600 BTW

[Gaddie30]

Does anyone know how to use the speakerphone option on the 5600? I have selected it through the home screen and the quick list but i can not get it to work. :( Do I need to be on a call first? Can anyone help? Thanks.

[aristoBrat]

Does anyone know how to use the speakerphone option on the 5600? I have selected it through the home screen and the quick list but i can not get it to work. :( Do I need to be on a call first? Can anyone help? Thanks.
While in a call, press and hold the green phone button. That'll turn on speakerphone. :)

[seven]

I noticed this on the front page re: teh SP3i (which is the same phone, right?):


"UPDATE: The band switch is done via software in the phone. So the phones being sold are actually quad-band phones, but in the settings of the phone you have to select which band you want it to be - European or North American. My original SPV was like this (or was it the E200?) - it wouldn't work until I selected "PCS" as the band. "

If that's true does that mean you can switch over to make it work on 900Mhz also? If so I'll definitely get it as the 1 feature I was missing was it being quad band so I could use it on 900Mhz when I visit The Philippines.

Thanks again,
Seven

[aristoBrat]

Bugsy - do you already have a card and reader? I didn't have either and just ordered today (figuring I would need both eventualy anyway). I am just curious if you will be first in getting him the ROM image.

Thanks
He got the image around 7pm EST tonight (Fri 10/15). He said he hopes to have it done by the end of the weekend.

Thanks to iJITSU for pointing out that Best Buy does have miniSDs even though they dont' appear to on their website. I snagged a 256MB SanDisk for $49.99 .. not the cheapest, but the instant gratification factor was nice.

[pattywatty]

aritobrat - thanks for the update. That's great if they can get it done over the weekend because I don't think my orders would have come in until mid next week.

I'll keep my fingers crossed. Hopefully he will post something on the website to indicate that they have it doene for the smt5600..

[aristoBrat]

I'll keep my fingers crossed. Hopefully he will post something on the website to indicate that they have it doene for the smt5600..
I'll suggest that to him. Sounds like a great idea (and easy to do, too!)

[TJohn]

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Picked up my 5600 at a local ATTWS yesterday(I'm a new customer). I knew that the more attractive, promotional rate plans weren't available with this handset but I tried playing dumb about it (wasn't too difficult :? ). First I told the salesman I saw the phone online for $150, he verified the web price then matched it!

He asked what plan I'd like so I pointed to a big poster promoting a local plan w/700 anytime minutes+unlimited n&w for $39.95. He had some "trouble" getting his computer to accept this plan (I kept my mouth shut) but after a few dozen more keystrokes it worked! I also signed up for the unlimited data plan(1 year).

Checked my account online today, so far everything is correct. Hope it sticks.
The store was on Lakeshore in Oakland, CA. The salesmans name was Marion. May be worth the drive for some Bay Area folks.

[MikeZQ]

I got my 5600 last night. I like the phone ... but the reception is worse then my Moto 505. I would like to know if anyone has compared signal strength with the MPX220 and would comment please. BTW I'm with ATT. Can anyone tell me what phone has the Highest signal reception regardless of the OS? I would really like to be able to use a cell phone at my house.

[jfreiman]

I got my 5600 last night. I like the phone ... but the reception is worse then my Moto 505. I would like to know if anyone has compared signal strength with the MPX220 and would comment please. BTW I'm with ATT. Can anyone tell me what phone has the Highest signal reception regardless of the OS? I would really like to be able to use a cell phone at my house.
Well, I can't comment directly on what you are noticing, regarding the 505 and the like, but at first I was getting terrible reception on my ATT as compared to my Cingular service.
Here in the SF Bay Area ATT customers roam in and out of ATT and into Cingular every few blocks or so.
Somehow at home my phone was sticking to ATT with terrible signal strength and horrable voice quaility and was dropping calls.
I then went around the corner (literally) found a Cingular location, used the Phone Settings to manaully find the carrier.
Went home, and now I have full bars at home with Cingular as my carrier.
I don't know if that was a coincedence or what, but I am now happy with my phone and it's reception.

[jfreiman]

Has anyone looked into getting insurance for the Audiovox SMT 5600?

I checked with ATT and they don't offer insurance for PDAs and Smartphones.

What other options have people here tried?

[TJohn]

Has anyone looked into getting insurance for the Audiovox SMT 5600?

I checked with ATT and they don't offer insurance for PDAs and Smartphones.

What other options have people here tried?


I picked up a 5600 yesterday at an ATTW store and was offered (and accepted) the insurance for $5 a month with a $35 deductable.

Seems like each rep gives different info.

[jfreiman]

Has anyone looked into getting insurance for the Audiovox SMT 5600?

I checked with ATT and they don't offer insurance for PDAs and Smartphones.

What other options have people here tried?


I picked up a 5600 yesterday at an ATTW store and was offered (and accepted) the insurance for $5 a month with a $35 deductable.

Seems like each rep gives different info.

Not to bring you down or anything, but the Audiovox SMT 5600 and other smartphones and PPC Phones are NOT covered by the insurance.

I just got off the line with ATT and confirmed it. I'd look into another insurance plan.

If you keep the one you just got and your phone does break, your going to be a very unhappy camper.

[seven]

[quote=jfreiman] Seems like each rep gives different info.

Tell me about it. I tried calling cutomer care yesterday to order this phone. 1st time everything was going well, she was matching the $199.95 web price, but I was at work and she left me on hold too long and I had to hang up.

2nd try, the lady couldn't find the phone and kept trying to sell me the Audiovox PPC4*00 (I forget the model #) so I hung up and tried again.

3rd time they were reluctantly giving me the same price... sort of... she said she had to sell it to me for $319.95 and then give me a credit on my bill for the $120. By now I was getting tired of this so I said ok, then she said I had to sign for a 2 year plan and I said no, just 1 year like on the web. She said, "Well this isn't the web, it's different." so I said forget it and tried again later.

4th time, the girl was very nice and was matching the web price and letting me keep my current voice plan and only do a 1 year contract. However while she was working on it and I was on hold I got disconnected.

She tried to call me back, but I was calling them back at the same time so she got a busy signal.

So, 5th time, I told the girl that I was in the middle of the order and got disconnected and she found a partial order in place for me but it wasn't completed. She said, the order system had just shut down and that the girl would probably call me back to complete the order when it was back up. And, that she didn't want to start a new order for me since the partial one was already there because that would "royally screw things up." and besides, the order system was down anyway. :(

So, I have no idea if I have one on order or not, but I'm guessing not.

I wish I could've just done it over the web, but it's a little unclear on some things. For instance, I chose the $24.95 "Unlimited Mobile Internet" and then it gives you the option of choosing a voice plan too. But, I just want to keep my current voice plan and I'm afraid that if I don't choose one that I'll end up with no voice plan at all.

Another weird thing, she said the partial order had me signing up for "Unlimited mMode" instead of "Unlimited Mobile Internet." I read on this forum or another that those are 2 separate things and you specifically need the "Unlimited Mobile Internet" with this phone, but the girl had never heard that before.

Anyway, sorry to right a novel but I'm very frustrated. :(

Seven

[bsic]

what software comes with the 5600? The mpx200 had a CD with some apps on it- dont know if they are following suit on this phone.

BTW- i found the diff between signing up for 1 or 2 yrs on the att web site- if you sign a 2yr contract, you get unlimited mobile2mobile minutes.

[jfreiman]

what software comes with the 5600? The mpx200 had a CD with some apps on it- dont know if they are following suit on this phone.

BTW- i found the diff between signing up for 1 or 2 yrs on the att web site- if you sign a 2yr contract, you get unlimited mobile2mobile minutes.

The CD only comes with Outlook 2002 and pdf of the manual.

[bsic]

what software comes with the 5600? The mpx200 had a CD with some apps on it- dont know if they are following suit on this phone.

BTW- i found the diff between signing up for 1 or 2 yrs on the att web site- if you sign a 2yr contract, you get unlimited mobile2mobile minutes.

The CD only comes with Outlook 2002 and pdf of the manual.

How bout photo caller id? Is that standard with the prepackaged software?

[jfreiman]

The 5600 has the following programs listed under the Start menu and it's sub-menus:

START -->
Messaging
Contacts
Calculator
mMode
Internet Explorer
ActiveSync
Call History
MSN Messenger
More...
Settings [folder]
Phone
Sounds
Profiles
Home Screen
About
Accessibility
Beam
Bluetooth
More...
Certificates
Data Connections
Date and Time
Owner Information
Power Management
Regional Settings
Remove Programs (non listed)
Security
Camera
Windows Media
PhotoAlbum
Pocket MSN
Camcorder
Tasks
File Manager
More...
Photo Contacts
Speed Dial
Voice Recorder
Accessories [folder]
Calculator
Clear Storage
Java
Modem Link
SIM Manager
Configurations [folder]
BT SerialPortSetup
CSD Line Type
GPRS Authentication
MMS Settings
Game Room [folder]
Jaw Breaker
Solitaire
Resource Mgt. [folder]
Favorites Manager
Space Maker
Task Manager

If you are curious as to any of the version number of the programs I can/will post them as requested.

[aristoBrat]

The 5600 has photo caller ID. :)

It has an app called Photo Contacts that lets you assign an existing photo, or take a new one from the camera. In addition to a photo, you can assign a theme (animated background).

[Kris Kumar]

Now that we know that SP3i has a software switch (http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=42830#42830) to change it from European (900/1800/1900) to American (850/1800/1900) bands. Wondering if the same is possible with the SMT5600? Has anyone found any interesting GSM band switch setting :?:

[aristoBrat]

Now that we know that SP3i has a software switch (http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=42830#42830) to change it from European (900/1800/1900) to American (850/1800/1900) bands. Wondering if the same is possible with the SMT5600? Has anyone found any interesting GSM band switch setting :?:
I hope it's possible because I didn't see a way to manually set it. Wonder how it picks 850 or 1900 when both are available?

[choo_choo]

Has anyone looked into getting insurance for the Audiovox SMT 5600?

I checked with ATT and they don't offer insurance for PDAs and Smartphones.

What other options have people here tried?


I picked up a 5600 yesterday at an ATTW store and was offered (and accepted) the insurance for $5 a month with a $35 deductable.

Seems like each rep gives different info.

Not to bring you down or anything, but the Audiovox SMT 5600 and other smartphones and PPC Phones are NOT covered by the insurance.

I just got off the line with ATT and confirmed it. I'd look into another insurance plan.

If you keep the one you just got and your phone does break, your going to be a very unhappy camper.

When purchasing the 5600 from the online AT&T store, insurance is not offered, but I was able to call 611 this morning and request insurance ($3.99/mo with $35 deductible). I won't bother with the warranty insurance for at least until the 1 yr mfr warranty runs out.

[choo_choo]

Has anyone been able to ActiveSync their 5600 via bluetooth? When I "discover" services on the phone, I only get Bluetooth Voice Gateway and Dial-up Networking. Any suggestions?

[aristoBrat]

Has anyone been able to ActiveSync their 5600 via bluetooth? When I "discover" services on the phone, I only get Bluetooth Voice Gateway and Dial-up Networking. Any suggestions?
I spent about an hour dicking around w/ it last night, but it finally works, and works well (for me, anyways). I've never much messed w/ BT before, so this is kinda fun.

I followed this guide and it worked for me. My BT stuff on the computer was a bit different (I'm just using what came with XP SP2), but not hard to figure out.

http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=2643

[choo_choo]

Has anyone been able to ActiveSync their 5600 via bluetooth? When I "discover" services on the phone, I only get Bluetooth Voice Gateway and Dial-up Networking. Any suggestions?
I spent about an hour dicking around w/ it last night, but it finally works, and works well (for me, anyways). I've never much messed w/ BT before, so this is kinda fun.

I followed this guide and it worked for me. My BT stuff on the computer was a bit different (I'm just using what came with XP SP2), but not hard to figure out.

http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=2643

Thanks. It appears my problem is that the com ports don't align. The phone expects com 8 and my computer only supports com 4 (and I can't change it on my winXP pc.

[aristoBrat]

Hmmmm. On my computer, the BT serial port is COM7. When I went into ActiveSync and pulled down the list of serial ports, it showed. I definately don't have 7 physical COM ports -- these are virtual.

[jfreiman]

Has anyone looked into getting insurance for the Audiovox SMT 5600?

I checked with ATT and they don't offer insurance for PDAs and Smartphones.

What other options have people here tried?


I picked up a 5600 yesterday at an ATTW store and was offered (and accepted) the insurance for $5 a month with a $35 deductable.

Seems like each rep gives different info.

Not to bring you down or anything, but the Audiovox SMT 5600 and other smartphones and PPC Phones are NOT covered by the insurance.

I just got off the line with ATT and confirmed it. I'd look into another insurance plan.

If you keep the one you just got and your phone does break, your going to be a very unhappy camper.

When purchasing the 5600 from the online AT&T store, insurance is not offered, but I was able to call 611 this morning and request insurance ($3.99/mo with $35 deductible). I won't bother with the warranty insurance for at least until the 1 yr mfr warranty runs out.

Well, according to ATT and the company that provides the insurance, you *are* paying the money, but your phone is *not* covered.

I wish you and your phone well.

[choo_choo]

When purchasing the 5600 from the online AT&T store, insurance is not offered, but I was able to call 611 this morning and request insurance ($3.99/mo with $35 deductible). I won't bother with the warranty insurance for at least until the 1 yr mfr warranty runs out.

Well, according to ATT and the company that provides the insurance, you *are* paying the money, but your phone is *not* covered.

I wish you and your phone well.

Good point. I'll have to read the fine print. I'm sure, though, that I'd have a pretty good case with the Attorney General of my state that AT&T would have to cover my phone if they've charged me for insurance.

[BillMSTI]

I looked at the Jabra and Bluetake line. Any preferences/experience with these devices? I guess there isn't much specific info on these phones cause the're so new.TIA... Bill

[Gator5000e]

I got the 5600 from ATT here in Orlando this weekend. The sales guys told me I needed a data plan which went in tiers of $29, $39 and $49. $49 is for unlimited data. I said I heard there was a $25 unlimited internet plan but he said that is not what I needed with this phone. Am I getting ripped here?

What is the difference between the internet plan and the data plan as far as what they do?

Thanks for any thoughts.

[aristoBrat]

I'm not sure what the difference between AT&T's plans are, but if you go to their website and start the process of buying the SMT 5600, it makes you select from four data plans, with the unlimited being $24.99

I think the $49.99 the guy is talking about is for PDAs, not Smartphones.

[choo_choo]

Has anyone noticed any dust under their SMT5600 screen. You can't see it when it's turned on, but it's quite visible when turned off. My phone has dust in the upper right portion of the screen (closest to the camera button).

Other forums have reported similar problems with the c500. I've only had my phone for 3 days.

[jfreiman]

When purchasing the 5600 from the online AT&T store, insurance is not offered, but I was able to call 611 this morning and request insurance ($3.99/mo with $35 deductible). I won't bother with the warranty insurance for at least until the 1 yr mfr warranty runs out.

Well, according to ATT and the company that provides the insurance, you *are* paying the money, but your phone is *not* covered.

I wish you and your phone well.

Good point. I'll have to read the fine print. I'm sure, though, that I'd have a pretty good case with the Attorney General of my state that AT&T would have to cover my phone if they've charged me for insurance.

I think you would have a decent case, but they may only be required to replace you Smartphone with a "phone."

[jfreiman]

Has anyone noticed any dust under their SMT5600 screen. You can't see it when it's turned on, but it's quite visible when turned off. My phone has dust in the upper right portion of the screen (closest to the camera button).

Other forums have reported similar problems with the c500. I've only had my phone for 3 days.

Looking... Looking... Not there... Yet.

[Gator5000e]

Well, I spoke with AT&T re the data/internet plan. The $24.95 plan is for unlimited mMode only. If you are going to surf HTML sites, then you will be charged for excess (whatever that is) KB downloads. The data plans, $29,$39, $49 (unlimited) respectively allows surfing regular HTML sites.

If anyone has any different information, pleae let me know.

Thanks.

[ric0chet]

Hey all -

Anybody heard any word on unlocking the SMT5600 yet? I just sent a note to the c500-unlock.com folks to see how they are proceeding. Last I heard they did have an Audiovox firmware image and were working on it. I'm eager to get this phone working on T-Mobile!

-Steve

[jfreiman]

Well, I spoke with AT&T re the data/internet plan. The $24.95 plan is for unlimited mMode only. If you are going to surf HTML sites, then you will be charged for excess (whatever that is) KB downloads. The data plans, $29,$39, $49 (unlimited) respectively allows surfing regular HTML sites.

If anyone has any different information, pleae let me know.

Thanks.

Well, I haven't talked to anyone about this, but from what I read, and looked up just now on the internet (ATT Wireless) my unlimited rate if for my phone's data access period. If I tether it to my notebook or other devices then those charges will be seperate and not included in my flat fee.

[seaflipper]

Well, I spoke with AT&T re the data/internet plan. The $24.95 plan is for unlimited mMode only. If you are going to surf HTML sites, then you will be charged for excess (whatever that is) KB downloads. The data plans, $29,$39, $49 (unlimited) respectively allows surfing regular HTML sites.

If anyone has any different information, pleae let me know.

Thanks.

Well, I haven't talked to anyone about this, but from what I read, and looked up just now on the internet (ATT Wireless) my unlimited rate if for my phone's data access period. If I tether it to my notebook or other devices then those charges will be seperate and not included in my flat fee.

jfreiman is correct from what I have been told by my sales rep (in store) and by the resps on the phone. The unlimited 24.95 plan is just that - unlimited anything on the phone. The other plans are for tethering to a device. If you chose the 24.95 plan only and tether you will be charged $.001 per KB, or $1 per MB of data, it's a "pay as you go plan". Personally, I find that to be acceptable.

[pattywatty]

Hey all -

Anybody heard any word on unlocking the SMT5600 yet? I just sent a note to the c500-unlock.com folks to see how they are proceeding. Last I heard they did have an Audiovox firmware image and were working on it. I'm eager to get this phone working on T-Mobile!

-Steve

Steve - I too received an email back from those guys and they confirmed they had the ROM image and were actively working on the unlock code. I sent an email back to ensure that those of us who have contacted them would be emailed to know when the unlock code is available. Hopefully soon as I too am with TMobile and the the $9.99 TZones which also allows for sync with corporate email is much better than the $24.99 plus $9.99 for Corporate email...

Pat

[pattywatty]

Regarding unlocking the SMT5600: The folks over at imei-check.co.uk/ that have unlock codes for the similar C500 have updated their website with a message that they are currently working on the unlock code for the SMT5600 and wish for owners/potential owners to discontine emailing their site about the status of the unlock code as it will only slow down their work in obtaining the code. I have been guilty of several emails to them and just noticed this posting to the front of their webpage and thought I would pass it on... The best thing to do at this point is to just keep checking back to their site until they have added the SMT5600 to the list...

:!: :!:

[choo_choo]

Has anyone been able to ActiveSync their 5600 via bluetooth? When I "discover" services on the phone, I only get Bluetooth Voice Gateway and Dial-up Networking. Any suggestions?
I spent about an hour dicking around w/ it last night, but it finally works, and works well (for me, anyways). I've never much messed w/ BT before, so this is kinda fun.

I followed this guide and it worked for me. My BT stuff on the computer was a bit different (I'm just using what came with XP SP2), but not hard to figure out.

http://www.geekzone.co.nz/content.asp?contentid=2643

Thanks. It appears my problem is that the com ports don't align. The phone expects com 8 and my computer only supports com 4 (and I can't change it on my winXP pc.

Success! I finally got Bluetooth ActiveSync working!

My config: Dell 600m laptop with built-in USB bluetooth module (using Widcomm drivers).

I downloaded & installed the latest Dell Bluetooth s/w, checked to make sure the Bluetooth config & the ActiveSync connection used the same Com port, re-paired the devices and authorized all services for my phone.

[Gaddie30]

Has anybody had luck getting MSN or Hotmail e-mail on there 5600? I have tried everyting but it never connects to hotmail. :cry: I went through ATTWS website but nothing. I want it to be in my outlook mailbox on the phone or even a personal e-mail box. Any ideas would be greatful. :lol:

[Kris Kumar]

Has anybody had luck getting MSN or Hotmail e-mail on there 5600? I have tried everyting but it never connects to hotmail. :cry: I went through ATTWS website but nothing. I want it to be in my outlook mailbox on the phone or even a personal e-mail box. Any ideas would be greatful. :lol:

The Outlook Inbox can be configured for only the following emails:
- POP3
- IMAP
- Exchange/ActiveSync/WirelessSync (none these supports Hotmail or other web based mail). :-(

There is program called Pocket MSN. I haven't tried it, but there should be a menu item in the Start Menu on your phone. That should let you get to Hotmail. But I believe you have to pay for it.

I use the Pocket Internet Explorer to point to Mobile MSN URL and access my Hotmail using the web browser. Works okay, but having it in the inbox would be cool.

[jumpinj]

I downloaded and tried to install the PocketMSN client. However, when I ran the installer, it gave me a message stating that "This program does not have sufficient permissions to install", or something to that effect. I used the PPC version on my XDAII and it worked great.

It would be nice to have the same type of "auto notification" with my MSN account as I do with my E2k3 ActiveSync.

Regards,

JC

[Mike Temporale]

I think PocketMSN will only work on application unlocked phones.

[bsic]

Just got my smt5600 and man its great. A GIANT improvement over my old mpx200.

One question for the guru's---- There seems to be very few useful home screen layouts. The mpx200 came with more useful ones- right now the AWS Home screen is close to what I want- but its got too much on it (mainly the hard coded internet links).

I heard with WM2003 this was more customizable- is this true? Can anyone point me to how to change this?

[Mike Temporale]

One question for the guru's---- There seems to be very few useful home screen layouts. The mpx200 came with more useful ones- right now the AWS Home screen is close to what I want- but its got too much on it (mainly the hard coded internet links).

I heard with WM2003 this was more customizable- is this true? Can anyone point me to how to change this?

Here's two things for you to look at:

Best Home Screens On The Net (http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=5131) and

Homescreen Designer (http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6381)

[seven]

Mine finally came today! It's charging now and I was going through the "Getting Started" guide and it says to use the new SIM which comes with the phone. I was under the impression that since it's an upgrade I'd use my use the SIM in my old phone. Can someone please verify which is correct?

Thanks,
Seven

[bsic]

Mine finally came today! It's charging now and I was going through the "Getting Started" guide and it says to use the new SIM which comes with the phone. I was under the impression that since it's an upgrade I'd use my use the SIM in my old phone. Can someone please verify which is correct?

Thanks,
Seven

I didnt get a SIM card with my upgrade order either- i just plugged in my old one and no problem! Called AT&T, and they verified no new sim card is needed.

[NTzeke]

So assuming that the Audiovox is unlockable soon, what is the cheapest price one could get the phone without having to sign a contract with ATT.

I am completly new to this..........will unlocking the phone make it useable with Cingular?

[seven]

Mine finally came today! It's charging now and I was going through the "Getting Started" guide and it says to use the new SIM which comes with the phone. I was under the impression that since it's an upgrade I'd use my use the SIM in my old phone. Can someone please verify which is correct?

Thanks,
Seven

I didnt get a SIM card with my upgrade order either- i just plugged in my old one and no problem! Called AT&T, and they verified no new sim card is needed.

Thanks. I just tried it a few minutes after I posted and it worked (after a few more minutes.)

Then I figured out you have to change network to "Internet" to get to web sites. Anything else I need to know? ;)

I can't get BT to work between this and my Sony T610. :(

7

[Mike Temporale]

So assuming that the Audiovox is unlockable soon, what is the cheapest price one could get the phone without having to sign a contract with ATT.

I am completly new to this..........will unlocking the phone make it useable with Cingular?

It looks like Amazon has the cheapest price for the phone - without signing a contract with AT&T. http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=6498

As for working with Cingular, it shouldn't be a problem.

[bsic]

Then I figured out you have to change network to "Internet" to get to web sites. Anything else I need to know? ;)
:(

7

Ha!

Actually i guess i got lucky- just popped in my sim, the phone was already 95% charged, and thats it... up and going with internet, everything. Enjoy!

[seven]

Then I figured out you have to change network to "Internet" to get to web sites. Anything else I need to know? ;)
:(

7

Ha!

Actually i guess i got lucky- just popped in my sim, the phone was already 95% charged, and thats it... up and going with internet, everything. Enjoy!

My battery must've been mostly charged already too. But, my "Network" setting was to WAP so I couldn't get to any "real" websites.

FYI I think I figured out my BT problem by (gasp!) reading the manual. :P When I turned BT on I saw the "Beam" setting above it and just assumed that was for IR, but you have to have it enable to receive stuff over BT as well.

7

[pattywatty]

I purchased my 5600 from the web, selected a one-year contact (national 39.99 plan for 350 mins) and one year unlimited data plan @ $24.99. I have had the phone for almost a week and made several calls but have used the web probably more than calls. I went online to check my usage and to review my plan/etc. and it only shows the GMS National plan with 350 anytime minutes and a separate line for unlimited nights and weekends. There is no indication regarding data plan or amount of data used. It does indicate the number of minutes peak and off-peak. I looked back at the sheets that shipped with the phone (letter from ATT with phone number and receipt indicating price paid - $149.99. There is only an indication regarding the voice plan selected and again no indication as to data plan. I am planning on unlocking and using with my current Tmobile account. However, I am curious as to whether I'm actually getting the data with ATT at no cost. My statement cuts the 27th of this month (still inside the 30 day trial) so I am anxious to see what it says. Can anyone else who is either a Cingular or Tmobile customer who activated w/ATT just to get the phone check and see what the web site indicates with regard to the voice and data plans ordered vs actually listed....

THanks.

[bsic]

I purchased my 5600 from the web, selected a one-year contact (national 39.99 plan for 350 mins) and one year unlimited data plan @ $24.99. I have had the phone for almost a week and made several calls but have used the web probably more than calls. I went online to check my usage and to review my plan/etc. and it only shows the GMS National plan with 350 anytime minutes and a separate line for unlimited nights and weekends. There is no indication regarding data plan or amount of data used. It does indicate the number of minutes peak and off-peak. I looked back at the sheets that shipped with the phone (letter from ATT with phone number and receipt indicating price paid - $149.99. There is only an indication regarding the voice plan selected and again no indication as to data plan. I am planning on unlocking and using with my current Tmobile account. However, I am curious as to whether I'm actually getting the data with ATT at no cost. My statement cuts the 27th of this month (still inside the 30 day trial) so I am anxious to see what it says. Can anyone else who is either a Cingular or Tmobile customer who activated w/ATT just to get the phone check and see what the web site indicates with regard to the voice and data plans ordered vs actually listed....

THanks.

Id check www.attws.com, and click "Check Minutes". When I do this, it tells me my allowed KB usage and how much Ive used. IF you dont see it, might be worth giving them a call to verify.

[AlexY]

It looks like Amazon has the cheapest price for the phone - without signing a contract with AT&T. http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/f...opic.php?t=6498


Does that mean that the phone with out a contract is not SIM locked?

-Alex

[Mike Temporale]

It looks like Amazon has the cheapest price for the phone - without signing a contract with AT&T. http://www.smartphonethoughts.com/f...opic.php?t=6498


Does that mean that the phone with out a contract is not SIM locked?

-Alex

It's hard to say without buying one. However I would expect it to be SIM locked regardless of a contract being purchased with it or not. There are a number of people working on unlocking these phones. Keep an eye on the forums here. I'm sure someone will post when it's done.

[aghaffar]

I just got my SMT5600 two days ago and have been using it for a few hours a day. Last night I started having trouble with the scroll wheel/navigation joystick. While it was working great with good response before, unfortunately now it does not always respond when I scroll down. However, when scrolling up it never gives me any trouble. Only when scrolling down. Needless to say I'm not happy to experience this on a brand new device. Has anyone else noticed a lack of response from the directional navigation key or any other keys on this device? Shall I go back to AT&T and ask for a replacement? Any suggestions?

[bsic]

I just got my SMT5600 two days ago and have been using it for a few hours a day. Last night I started having trouble with the scroll wheel/navigation joystick. While it was working great with good response before, unfortunately now it does not always respond when I scroll down. However, when scrolling up it never gives me any trouble. Only when scrolling down. Needless to say I'm not happy to experience this on a brand new device. Has anyone else noticed a lack of response from the directional navigation key or any other keys on this device? Shall I go back to AT&T and ask for a replacement? Any suggestions?

Go ask them for a replacement. Mine is working fine with the scroll up/dn.

[choo_choo]

When purchasing the 5600 from the online AT&T store, insurance is not offered, but I was able to call 611 this morning and request insurance ($3.99/mo with $35 deductible). I won't bother with the warranty insurance for at least until the 1 yr mfr warranty runs out.

Well, according to ATT and the company that provides the insurance, you *are* paying the money, but your phone is *not* covered.

I wish you and your phone well.

Good point. I'll have to read the fine print. I'm sure, though, that I'd have a pretty good case with the Attorney General of my state that AT&T would have to cover my phone if they've charged me for insurance.

I think you would have a decent case, but they may only be required to replace you Smartphone with a "phone."

When you order the SMT5600 from Amazon.com you're offered the choice of insurance from lockline.

[Bobby115]

Awsome phone so far....!!! Only thing bothering me is the volume.....Seems way toooo LOW......I was just watching a video and listening to MP3's in media player and it said is was at 100%. Anyway to make it louder?? Am I doing something wrong??

[seaflipper]

Awsome phone so far....!!! Only thing bothering me is the volume.....Seems way toooo LOW......I was just watching a video and listening to MP3's in media player and it said is was at 100%. Anyway to make it louder?? Am I doing something wrong??

I have had mine since it came out, volume has been awesome on this thing. That's through the speaker though.

If you use the included earbud stereo headset, it stinks! I replaced mine with a $3 3.5mm to 2.5mm adapter from Radio Shack and use some nice Sony headphones. End result is songs and movies that I had at 100% with the included earbuds I can listen to at 40 to 45% with the Sony's, so the included earbud is really crappy