ASUS P527. Low-cost GPS-solution to the keyboard

As has been repeatedly mentioned, the production of devices based on Windows Mobile is not a priority for the ASUS. Recently, however, the company makes more bold steps now and then forcing competitors pretty nervous. The flagship model, ASUS P750, released just a couple of days before the 2008 due to a rare combination of price and performance are still sold as a stable pace. After her company produced models P527 and P550. The latter has been visiting us (see the review of ASUS P550). If you remember, he has no numeric keypad, but boasts an unusually wide screen display (3.5 "). This unit is absolutely not fit into the range of P525, P526 and P750 and is conceptually closer to the P535. Today's guest, ASUS P527 keyboard extends the family of ASUS, succeeding P526 and settled in the model number under the flagship model of ASUS P750. It's small yet representative of the class of one-piece GPS-communicator with a numeric keypad. Right in the eye catches a modified keyboard, the design of which was a bit easier than the P526 and is called, Apparently, to make use of the keys is more convenient. In addition, attention is drawn to five-way navigation joystick, absent in ASUS P526. As for the specifications, here the difference from the previous model are minimal, and perceive them to be none other than work on the bugs. The device was built on the same hardware platform. With all the attendant. At the beginning of sales ASUS P750 no competitors in the market was not. They began to catch up with closer to spring. But the P527 will have more difficult - the competition is now sufficient. This glofiish X600, and the newly-born HTC P3470, and Gigabyte GSmart MW700, and Mitac Mio A702. By the way, out of this group, only A702 has a digital keyboard. Well, among other things, the new ASUS was sold at a very affordable price. All of this allows us to consider the model as a replacement phone . And now look at the main technical parameters. Specifications

• Operating System: Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 Professional
• Processor: Texas Instruments OMAP850, 200 MHz
• Memory: 64 MB RAM and 128 MB Flash ROM
• Screen: 2.6 "transflective TFT, 240x320, 65536 colors
• Memory Expansion: microSD (support SDHC, maps of any size)
• Communication capabilities: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, GRPS / EDGE (Class 10), Bluetooth (2.0 + EDR), Wi-Fi 802.11b / g, USB 1.1
• Camera: 2 megapixel, autofocus, video recording
• GPS-receiver: 20 channel, SiRF Star III
• Battery: Li-Pol, 1300 mAh, removable
• Audio: microphone, speaker, 2.5-mm headset jack
• Dimensions and weight: 113 x 58 x 15.4 mm and 130 g.
• Claimed battery life: up to 150-200 hours of standby time, up to 4-5 hours talk time

Agree, is not the most impressive painting by the standards of 2008. This hardware platform look obsolete a year ago, at the time of occurrence of ASUS P526. OMAP850 processor from Texas Instruments, however, continues to be used. And mostly in low-end models, which can be attributed ASUS P527. Therefore, the modest performance, mediocre amount of internal memory and a slow USB-connection is quite possible to turn a blind eye. Differences from the ASUS P526, as we have said, not much. First, and most importantly, introduced a module Wi-Fi, which is not applicable in the previous model, significantly reduced the range of its potential buyers. Second, the updated module Bluetooth (was 1.2, was 2.0 + EDR). On the list of supported profiles is almost unaffected, but increased the data rate. But more on that below. And finally, the third difference in the hardware - Support for flash cards large volume (SDHC). P527 will work correctly with any card, while the owners of the P526 had to be limited to two gigabytes. Navigation chip here is the same screen, apparently, too. Dimensions and weight are very close. Almost identical even claimed battery life. But it is in theory. As is the case in practice, will test. And now - open the box and estimate a complete set.

Supplied

The model is already available, so for us to test an engineering sample did not come, and selling a version is included.Inside the box is exactly the set of accessories, who accompanied ASUS P750. This set is quite solid, however, no frills and no nice bonuses. So, together with the communicator is available:

• stylus;
• leatherette cover;
• wired stereo;
• battery;
• Car mount;
• charger from the 220V;
• charger from the cigarette lighter socket;
• USB / mini USB sync cable;
• user manual, warranty card;
• 2 CD-ROM with accompanying software.

Stay long there will not - accessories that came with ASUS P527 is almost identical to what we saw in the P750. The changes are purely decorative. Stylus, for example, retained the same shape and size, but now he's not metal, and plastic. This made it a little easier, but the convenience of virtually does not affect. Headset, carrying case, car mount, Synchronization Cable and both chargers have not undergone any changes. The headset is still made under the jack 2.5 mm, and the case has no belt clip, and is only suitable for carrying in a bag or pocket. Complete ample, quality accessories is acceptable. Why reinvent the wheel, if there is a proven solution?

Design and Ergonomics

Design, as is known, should be easy. Anyway, this insists the notorious Artemy Lebedev. Designers ASUS, obviously followed this rule. P527 and actually looks like a rustic. This is due to the company's commitment to create a mass communicator, the main highlight of which would be the highest comfort. And I must say, they succeeded. Novelty really convenient for all previous models, although the difference is not so striking. As for visual appeal, it is inferior to P527 and P750 and even P526. This is purely a subjective aspect. Many exterior innovations really fell in love. In addition, the novelty of the ASUS looks very harmonious in the women's hands, which can not be said of many other models. The hull shape has remained a classic, rectangular. All corners are smoothly rounded, and the color scheme consists of dark gray, silver and black. In this case, P527 in accuracy copies of his younger brother. Other options of color performance is not provided. The front side of the case is made from metal plating, engraved, and finished back soft-touch finish. It is unusual to observe it in gray, and at first does seem that the body is all metal. However, in reality it is plastic. Extremely durable and high quality but the plastic. Painted surfaces do not (except for a small box on the back of the body), so that carry a cloth to remove fingerprints you do not have. Along with the P527 is our guest was the communicator LG KS20, executed in black lacquered case which had to wipe naturally several times a day. So that the practicality of P527 assessed in full.With regard to size, they do not disagree strongly with the parameters of the previous models ASUS. At P527, they are 113 x 58 x 15.4. Communicator 3 millimeters longer than its predecessor and 2 millimeters thinner than the flagship model. The device is extremely convenient and fits in your hand firmly held by soft-touch covering the rear panel. A weight of 130 grams can easily carry the device in any pocket, and long to keep your ear when talking. And now look at the location of the major elements. On the front side, as always, is the screen (with a diagonal of 2.6 inches) and above it - a stylish grille voice dynamics, hiding multicolored LED. It performs the standard functions: red lights when reminders and while charging, blue - with active Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or GPS-module, and blinks green when in the area of ​​GSM-coverage and lights at the end of charging. In the dormant state indicator is invisible and completely spoils the form and in operation becomes visible quite well. Just below the screen - one of the main highlights of the model: the numeric keypad. It is definitely worth looking in more detail. Sacrificing the appeal, the designers have achieved extraordinary comfort. While no secret here. The keys just a little increased in size, compared to ASUS P526 and P750, a slightly stronger stand out above the surface and slightly wider spaced. As a result, a set of SMS-messages or short messages to become faster and more convenient. All operations with the keys can easily be done blindly. In general, the hardware buttons at P527 a lot, twenty-one piece just on the front side. Two extreme columns of buttons take shortcuts applications (mail, wireless communications, navigation, radio, etc.). Part of them are rarely used, it would be logical if the manufacturer allowed to reassign them at its discretion. However, the standard means you can change the destination of only three buttons. Which, of course, does no credit to the communicator. However, this is mere trivia. If desired, you can reassign the buttons with the help of additional software. In general, the implementation of these keys deserves the highest rating. Among other things, the keyboard boasts a power reserve and a soft touch with a characteristic response. But the top row of buttons, which are buttons for call / hang up, "start", "OS" navigational joystick and soft keys, not pleased. Firstly, all the buttons are rather small and located flush with the body. Pushing their average male fingers are not too comfortable. Secondly, the soft keys are paired with the start button and "OK." Needless to say, that instead of one are often pressed another? .. Joystick as a whole is not bad: he has a tight course, but this can be used. The only thing that upsets - too small depression in which it is located. Therefore, it is necessary not to press with your fingertip and fingernail. That is such an ambiguous impression. The highly successful keyboard neighbors with poorly thought-out functional block keys. Well at least highlighting done without embarrassing blunders: shining brightly and evenly; white. True, to disable it, as in most analogues, it is impossible. The backlight turns off automatically when not to touch the keyboard for a few seconds, as well as in low battery level. We now turn to the side faces. On the right is a switch Hold, which has already become a tradition ASUS, as well as a memory card slot is not covered by any cap, rocker chamber (mild depression - focusing, a complete survey); opening with a hidden button "soft reset" and the stylus holder. The latter is on the corner (just under the right arm), and the pen is removed from his habitual movement, quick and easy. Left sidewall includes wheel (jog dial), which is present in all the latest models from ASUS and duplicated "OK" button that is located just below. Need is, you guessed it, in order to operate with Communicator can be using only one index finger. Clicking on the wheel acts as a confirmation, and the downstream button closes the window. Quite robust, though not quite logical at first glance the decision. The bottom end is represented connector mini USB, which connects and Synchronization cable, and both chargers, as well as a jack for headset, microphone and a slot for the strap eyelet. And on top is one single key "On / Off". And finally, the back side. It is, as we have noted, fully lined fashionable now soft-touch coating, no stamps and pleasant to the touch. At the top is inset in black, on which the lattice dynamics of the system, camera lens and a connector for remote GPS-antenna, hidden behind a plastic flap. Battery cover is two-thirds of the entire back side and is removed in one easy motion. She herself was quite thin, but it fits tightly enough backlash is observed. But under the hood - a standard pattern: the battery and the SIM-card. Nothing unusual here could not be found.

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Build quality as always from ASUS, just on top. On this parameter P527 worth a maximum estimate. Despite the seeming simplicity of design, the body is made from high quality plastic, and all the parts fit perfectly. Excellent ergonomics, so only the top row of keys slightly spoils the overall impression. But in general it is very positive.

Screen

ASUS P527 has a diagonal screen - 2.6 inches. Previously, as you remember, the most common screens were 2.8 inches. But now the situation is changing - the screens are reduced for the sake of reducing the size of the device. Other parameters of the local matrix do not differ from the majority of analogues: a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, 65536 colors. The viewing angles are quite good, and is approximately 175 degrees. This, of course, determined by eye, the exact value of the documentation is not mentioned. Backlight brightness adjustable in 8 steps, as well as all the latest PDA ASUS. This is more than enough for the selection of brightness under any lighting conditions. The maximum level lets you read from the screen in bright sunlight. The picture, however, fades, but still readable. The minimum level is comfortable to work in complete darkness. Nothing new, alas, here we can not say. And, of course, it is worth noting the location of the screen. He is in recess, so treat them with your fingers will not be too comfortable. This device is designed to control the stylus and / or hardware buttons. Touch-mania ASUS picked up later than others, so to implement it until the deal is not reached. The first device designed to work with your fingers will be the communicator-branded Lamborghini.

Speed ​​and memory

Role of the central processor in ASUS P527 performs repeatedly mentioned in our reviews Processor Texas Instruments OMAP850 200 MHz, which looked obsolete a year ago. However, for many of today's problems its performance is enough. Economical and inexpensive, this chip is just perfect for budget models. It was used in the last two communicators from Mio Technology (including those in competing with the P527 Mio A702), and lined with a number of recent models from HTC. So that by the end of this year OMAP850 still endure. By the way, at the end of the year we will have a very interesting match platforms. HTC will provide a number of models based on the Qualcomm MSM7200 with modified graphics part, and will be released a few devices that use the latest developments of Texas Instruments. And, of course, do not discount the company Marvell, which has launched a new generation of mobile processors, and NVIDIA with its multimedia solutions. But in the future, but for now let us return to P527. And, before proceeding to the test results, we note that the work with the interface of the operating system on subjective impressions, goes quite quickly, with no visible delays and slow downs. However, at the opening of large lists of files (or contacts), the communicator is running slowly. The same can be said for working with graphics, pdf-books and tables. To clarify the overall system performance, we, as always, used Spb Benchmark test package from the company Spb Software House. For comparison, we chose the model glofiish X600, HTC P3470 and Mitac Mio A702, the nearest competitor and close on technical parameters communicators. The results fully consistent with expectations. And by tradition to remember that paying attention should be primarily on the points of CPU Index (CPU), Graphics Index (the speed of the graphics subsystem) and the File System index (the speed of the file system).

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As you can see, glofiish X600, thanks to a processor beat everyone. It is true, oddly enough, ASUS P527 proved to be more productive on the part of the graphics than all the other participants. But in reality, if we compare the subjective impressions of the work - machine on E-Ten is faster. Otherwise, there is nothing strange. Performance Communicator ASUS rests on a par with HTC P3470 and Mio A702. Small differences in individual test items may well be attributed to the error. Perhaps more to comment on something. We proceed to the next stage. Player The Core Pocket Media Player (TCPMP) version 0.072 RC1, as you recall, shows the average speed of video playback. Therefore, when evaluating the results have to take a small margin, taking a sufficient indicator of the value of 120% to prevent loss of personnel in dynamic scenes. Test clips downloaded from the official website of the program and encoded with DivX and XviD codecs at different resolutions. Continue to compare the P527 c glofiish X600, HTC P3470 and Mitac Mio A702 and look at the results table. It is also quite the expected results. Roller 320 x 240 as a whole played back, so in theory at ASUS P527 you can watch video at this resolution, but in action freezes will be visible. It is unlikely that this represents a much bigger problem. And that's not converted video communicator that is too tough. So your favorite movies have to encode separately before recording on a memory card. As to the rest of the test, they go along with the P527. HTC P3470 and completely showed identical results, except for differences in 0,5-1,5%. The third and final test performance - VSBenchmark 2007 - showed the same pattern to be expected. The results consistently low, but quite acceptable. Below is a visual form the results of ASUS P527 compared with HP iPAQ 1940 (standard values ​​from a database benchmark) and the HTC P3470, which in this test proved to be a little worse than the P527. Well, with regard to memory, here we observe the standard pattern: the communicator is equipped with 128 MB ROM and 64 MB of RAM. From the area of memory allocated for the user's needs around 24 MB, and from the ROM - 45 MB. The expansion slot supports microSD cards of more than 4 gigabytes (SDHC). At that time, as the previous ASUS P526 only supports 2 GB cards. Small but very nice step forward.

Sound and vibrate

Sound capabilities ASUS P527 is not bad. We can not say that the plan gives device to another, if not to rush to extremes. Maximum volume of external speaker is quite high. The call is clearly heard in almost any location, whether it be subway or a busy street, even if the device is in a bag or pocket. For most cases, the maximum volume level is not required, it will be quite average. Voice speaker has enough volume, the maximum level just grates on the ear. For everyday use, suitable average. In an extreme case, the sound can easily adjust during a call. Deficiency, which had a ASUS P526 (sound characteristic hue) with P527 is not observed: in a reliable reception of the signal sound is very clean, and the caller's voice is recognizable.Headset, as we have already noted, was done under the 2.5-mm jack. It sounds quite good and quite suitable for conversation. However, listening to music is better to acquire more advanced earphones with an adapter. Or use a Bluetooth-headset, good communicator supports it. Voice recorder is capable of fairly high quality recording sound from a distance of 4-5 meters from the source. However, this is true only if the entry is made in a quiet room. If, for example, include an entry on the street, we have to hold the device very close to her lips, then to the voice was legible. In general, anything new to say can not be at all desire. Vibrating alert is average. Slightly weaker than the P526 and P750. But no difficulty is not deliver, due to size and shape of the body, the vibration felt fine out of his pocket. Wake will be hard to miss, even when walking, or if the unit is in a shirt pocket.

Communication capabilities

As before us is not the flagship model, 3G-functional is completely absent. Telephone module works only GSM-coating (Bands 850/900/1800/1900 MHz) and supports data transfer protocols GRPS and EDGE. Well, because support novopokolennyh standards for residents of Russia and the CIS is not relevant, we assume this dignity - do not have to overpay for unclaimed functions. For those who need a UMTS and HSDPA - a P750, which will be released later this year. And there, apparently, will receive full replacement. Calls meets standard application Phone, as well as the device has a numeric keypad, on-screen keyboard when calls are not displayed. As a result, the screen holds a lot more numbers or names of your address book. Of the wireless interfaces present as Bluetooth (2.0 + EDR), and Wi-Fi (802.11b / g). "Blue Tooth" has evolved since the ASUS P526. There, you'll remember was the specification 1.2, which differs from the more modest 2.0 data transfer rate and a smaller list of supported profiles. As the shell for managing connections P527 offers a standard application of Windows Mobile 6 Professional. And among the available profiles contains the following:

• Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP),
• Audio Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP),
• Serial Port Profile (SPP),
• Object Push Profile (OPP),
• Hands-Free Profile (HFP)
• Personal Area Network Profile (PAN), which can be used just as well as pushed into oblivion Profile DUN (Dial-Up Networking).

To test the functionality using Bluetooth fairly solid set of technology: Communicator ASUS P750, PDA Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox C550, wireless headsets Jabbra and Nokia, as well as phone Sony Ericsson K790i. In all cases, the module has demonstrated good speed and stable operation. In addition to A2DP support many more profiles, including SPP (Serial Port Profile), SAP (SIM Access Profile), OPP (Object Push Profile), PAN (Personal Area Network Profile), HID (Human Interface Device Profile) and AVRCP (Audio Video Remote Control Profile). It also supports the ability to send files to print to a Bluetooth-compatible printer. Wi-Fi works just as regularly and consistently. Standard application Wi-Fi Manager allows to operate only basic settings, but most users will be enough. And all the wireless modules are controlled through the application of Wireless Manager. But the wired connection is possible only by a slow protocol USB 1.1. The same sin and previous communicators companies, including even the P750. Why is this really do not understand. However, unless it is critical when buying? Obviously not. But provided the opportunity to work in the communicator mode USB Mass Storage, which lets you copy files onto a flash card or memory device without having to install ActiveSync.

GPS and FM-tuner

Navigation on the part of P527 is identical to its predecessor, if not take into account the slightly enlarged set of programs. Himself GPS-receiver is based on the chipset SIRF Star III, which hardly needs any introduction. Recall that the stated time hot-start for him is 1 second, warm - 35 seconds, the cold - 42 seconds. In fact, the launch takes place a little longer for 3-4 seconds, but it is not critical. No complaints during the test have not arisen. Navigator was used without an external antenna, showing excellent positioning accuracy and assertive communication with satellites. True, the manufacturer did not bother turning in a set of navigation software. Communicator can be purchased at all without him, or be content with what is put into a box distributors. We tested the GPS programs Autosputnik, iGO, OziExplorer and TomTom Navigator. SiRF Star III perfectly compatible with all such applications. In addition, a set of preinstalled software contains several small programs designed to better use GPS. This is primarily Location Courier, which allows you to send SMS-message with the current position as a SMS-message. Then, GPS Catcher, designed for regular updates GPS-data and accelerate the incorporation of the receiver. Finally, the utility Travelog, which combines a compass, speedometer and altimeter. Very nice gentleman set.

Location Courier

GPS Catcher

Travelog

And one more feature P527 - built-in FM-tuner. Oddly enough, but this is the first device from ASUS with the radio function. It is unlikely that this fact will be crucial when choosing a device, but for some it may be a little nice bonus. Tuner works quite well, acts as an antenna headset, and the current program allows you to store up to 20 stations and has 6 buttons for quick switching.

Capabilities built-in camera

Chamber compared to ASUS P526 has undergone little improvement. The main novelty here, of course, auto focus, through which the quality of the images went up markedly. In general, the predecessor of P527 was hateful black sheep of the family of communicators ASUS. This is the only device company, equipped with neavtofokusnoy camera. Now he can safely be forgotten, appeared in time replacement. The camera lens, as always, is back. This has already been mentioned. The lens does not cover up and lies in a place where often gets the thumb while holding your device near your ear. Producers WM-communicators stubbornly do not want to pay attention to this point, although it is not without significance. Sometimes you have to wipe the lens, because of its pollution picture quality noticeably worse. Interface for camera control migrated straight from the P750: a very simple, intuitive and easy to use. To access the main settings used by the navigation joystick and soft keys, a stylus to get is not necessary. And, as we face the navigation device, the camera features present in the preservation of the current coordinates EXIF-data of each photo. By itself, this feature works only when the receiver. Otherwise the coordinates are not specified. For photography are six resolutions: 1600 x 1200 1280 x 960 640 x 480 320 x 240 160 x 120 and 80 x 60. And when choosing a low resolution it is possible to digital zoom. From others may be noted timer (5 or 10 seconds), an adjustable degree of JPG-compression (three stops), special effects, overlays while shooting (a black and white, negative and sepia), the function of shooting a burst (4 or 9 frames) and PE white balance (Daylight, Shade, Tungsten and Fluorescent). Resort to the latter in most cases it is not necessary, because the balance is correct is determined automatically. Where automation is wrong - does not help, and presets. In the end, it should be understood that this is not DSLR-camera and even Consumer Digicam. The quality of photos worse than P750, but it is much better than the P526. It would not be logical if the flagship model in the inferior communicator, which is located below the product line. Flash did not, but there is an opportunity to increases or decrease the brightness. In the dark, it just adds noise to an already unpleasant, but with too bright lights, this adjustment has come in handy, sometimes pictures taken in automatic mode, look crossed. In confirmation of the above, give examples, which were made at the maximum resolution and maximum quality settings.

ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 472.6 KB)

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ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 401.1 KB)

ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 158.1 KB)

ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 230.2 KB)

ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 374.8 KB)

ASUS P527: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600 x 1200, 207.8 KB)

Video capabilities frankly rather weak. The local chamber can not even write the videos in QVGA-resolution. The maximum resolution is 176 x 144 in 3gp format and 160 x 120 in mp4. Also available another 128 x 96 x 60 and 80. Video Preferences repeat exactly the parameters when working with photos. But amid all this mediocrity revealed a remarkable detail - to zoom can be directly during the shooting, but did not advance as in other communicators. The following are examples of the camera in video mode with the highest quality settings. Findings suggest to make your own.

ASUS P527: Video sample (3gp, 176 x 144, 178Kb, 12 sec)

ASUS P527: Video sample (3gp, 176 x 144, 248.2 kB, 15 sec)

Runtime

Gauging the battery life occurred on a standard procedure, not undergone any changes since the publication of the last review. But before you look at the results, recall that the capacity of the battery pack is 1300 mAh and the manufacturer's battery life - up to 200 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours of talk time. Maximum load. The brightness set to maximum, the speaker volume too, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules, and through Windows Media Player in a loop in the loop play "hard" video. Battery life in this mode was 5 hours 41 min. Normal operation. All wireless modules are disabled. The brightness set to minimum level. On the PDA started reading the text in AlReader with automatic scrolling. Time work was 22 hours 18 minutes. MP3 Playback. Wireless modules and the screen backlight turned off. Listening to music through headphones at maximum volume. We used a Pocket Media Player and files with a bitrate 192 kbps. Hours - 16 hours 13 minutes. Well, good. Not a record, of course, but clearly above average. We would like to mention the maximum load, in which the device is held over five and a half hours. ASUS P750 in this regard looks worse. Affects power consumption when operating at maximum frequency. But in other modes flagship has proved little better than the P527. When using the navigation with the disconnected communication modules (including telephone) and a minimum illumination device worked six hours, which is also pretty good. A reduced diagram clearly shows how the ASUS P527 looks in comparison with the communicators of competitors. If we speak about normal use, which includes about 20 minutes of telephone conversations, short sessions Bluetooth-sync work with a headset, as well as reading, a brief period of GPS, then on a single charge communicator rabotet two days. And if you only use it in phone mode - it is quite able to hold out for almost three days. Claimed battery life: talk mode roughly corresponds to reality, the reality is just obtained 4-5 hours. In short, ASUS keeps the brand manufacturer of some of the most "survivable" devices.

Software stuffing

Software suite is traditionally very rich. The main part of the program repeats the ASUS P750. Some programs should already be known to you. Nevertheless, a brief rundown on the main points. ASUS Status. Simple little utility that displays a small window that shows CPU usage, free memory as that of the device itself and not the memory card. Hence, also provides access to a number of settings. For its quick launch icon is provided in the lower right corner of the main screen. AutoCleaner. A program for reordering close button. By default, the button "X" to minimize the window. However, with this AutoCleaner can be made that this button closes the program. Similar applications have met on devices from other manufacturers (HTC, in particular), now supported the initiative and ASUS. Mode Switcher. Another familiar application. It lets you quickly switch between running applications by acting similar to a keyboard combination "ALT + TAB". However, the program lets you quickly return to the main screen and one touch to change the screen orientation. It comes on every Pocket PC or PDA from ASUS. Java. Shell to run applications written in Java. The program comes on almost all modern communicators. About her repeatedly stated, we will not be repeated.

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WorldCard Mobile. Program to recognize business cards and quickly export your contact list. Thanks to high-quality camera it works very well. And for better recognition accuracy can be specified languages ​​in the list are present, and Russian. ASUS Launcher. The shell that imitates the mobile phone menu. Exactly the same as the ASUS P526 and P750. Quick launch is carried out with the Today screen by pressing the left soft-key, but you can assign it to another button. Initially, the menu is displayed as a matrix of 3 x 4 icons, but the display option is available in a vertical list. In addition, the possibility of self-configuration menu sections. Very convenient. Streaming Player. Player for streaming multimedia. It only works with fast Internet connection. For GPRS fully utilize the program will not succeed. Top Wi-Fi. ASUS Zip. The name speaks for itself. Program to create archives in the most popular format. It also allows you to extract compressed files or edit content already prepared files. Newstation. Simple and easy to use RSS-reader. To save bandwidth, by default downloads only the headlines. A further view is already implemented using the browser. For added convenience, it is possible to automatically update the feeds at a specified time or with specified interval. Absolutely indispensable thing, for example, for journalists. In addition, provides a convenient filter calls, allowing you to create the ignore list, manage call forwarding, as well as the manager ring tones, giving the chance to use the tunes of popular formats. Also prisustvet program for backup and recovery, and easy add-in Calendar. A disk that came with you to find another popular plugin Spb Pocket Plus. In short, an unusually good set of programs. Actually, this explains why so little memory is allocated for the needs of the user.

Price issue

At the time of writing the retail price of ASUS P527 in the shops MakTsentr - Computer in the Hand is 14,760 rubles. That, in our opinion, not very much, given a sufficiently broad functional model.

Conclusions

So what we have in the end? Neither more nor less, and very inexpensive Mighty navigation device. Competitors abound, they cost roughly the same level. ASUS P527 should like the look primarily to those seeking a convenient replacement phone. The presence of the keyboard and its implementation makes dialing and text messaging extremely convenient. None of the competing devices, this offer can not.The only keyboard device that can be countered P527 - Mio A702. However, his keys in terms of ease of use does not pale in comparison with those that offer the new product by ASUS. In addition, it is more expensive. The top row of keys, coupled with the navigation joystick is not filled with the most successful way, but the presence of the side scroller to close our eyes to this. A rather inexpensive, but extremely comfortable and functional device. Should I change him P526? If the presence of Wi-Fi is an essential condition if the time of the P526 does not suit you and you are willing to sacrifice visual appeal for the sake of ergonomics, then yes. If not - it is definitely not worth it. New uses the same hardware platform and boasts a better performance. The choice, as always, is yours. And we, for the ultimate clarity, we present the main advantages and disadvantages of the model in the form of two conventional speakers: Pros:

• compact size and low weight;
• comfortable keyboard;
• the presence of a scroll wheel;
• excellent set of preinstalled software;
• low cost;
• solid battery life.

Cons:

• inconvenient feature buttons.

The authors, translation: