Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Company E-Ten continues to delight us advanced devices, traditionally, offering the user a complete set of wireless technologies, coupled with an interesting design and good programming filling. The hero of our today's review - a recently submitted formal glofiish X800 - a worthy successor to the genus and the first 3G-device company. Since the first mention of the X800 was a long time and now, finally, a test instance of the device was in the lab HPCru. Let's see what has changed since the emergence X500 +, X800 because it is a direct sequel. Despite the apparent continuity, we dare to assure you of changes happened much more than in the case of the X500 and X500 +.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
With the specs you can see in the table, well, the company glofiish X800 will be the younger brother glofiish X500 +, VGA-communicator Gigabyte - GSmart i350, and a representative from the company's ASUS - GPS-communicator P535.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Comparison of characteristics: ASUS P535, Gigabyte GSmart i350, glofiish X500 + glofiish X800 and

Supplied

Like most pre-sale samples to test glofiish X800 was not fully complete, and we were able to personally assess the charger, sync cable, headset and bag on the belt.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
As for the headset and charger, here we will not see anything new, these accessories are the same ones that came bundled with previous models. Well, a handbag once again transformed. In form and quality of execution, it repeats the one that comes with the X500 +, a somewhat changed the design of this, of course, useful accessories. The holster is made of leather in black, and adorned on the front of a dark brown paste with a logo glofiish. Follow hard to find fault, a rare case when a complete enhancement of quality at least not inferior to the proposals from third parties. There are two holes in the bottom of the holster that was comfortable headset connected, no matter which side we put a communicator. The situation is similar with holes for the speakerphone, in any case, the walls of the holster will not drown out the sound of the call.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
True, these facilities are relevant only when we put the communicator back wall to itself.As well as in the case of the X500 +, two variants of fastening handbags: belt fasteners duplicated tough enough clip. Well, the communicator will be sold in a few richer set. According to official information, X800 will ship with the following set of accessories:
    Set
  • glofiish X800
  • pen (stylus)
  • sync cable mini-USB
  • charger
  • wired stereo headset
  • Leather Case
  • Quick Start Guide
  • CD-ROM with software and user manual synchronization
  • storage battery
  • complete User's Manual

Ergonomics and Design

Design of the device rather strongly changed in comparison with the X500 +. Correct severe forms were replaced by softer contours. Rounded corners shell, smooth hardware keys. Changed and the colors of the body, this time it is executed in silver and black colors with rare, but very showy splashes of red.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
The front part of the all-metal device, the space around the display is colored black, well, edging the case - silver.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
At the bottom of the block is the control keys, submitted the call button and hang up, respectively, combined with pressing the menu «Start» and click "OK". In the center is the joystick, and on the sides of his keys context menus, buttons and navigation program and return to Today. By the way, the last two "moved" from the top of the device, and joined to the main control unit, which is extremely positive impact on the ergonomics of the device.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Joystick glofiish X800 is strong enough rises above the device, which, however, rather good than bad. It's easy to find by touch, when running with the joystick, do not touch adjacent keys. The only thing to which one can find fault, so it is theoretically low reliability of such controls, but this is only possible drawback, which may or may not touch the device. Anyway, during testing, the joystick is not given a single failure.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
The main control buttons are a little progress, however, their depression is accompanied by snaps, to work with them comfortably. Inconvenience caused but the buttons are too close to the bottom of the device and too small size of the keys «Start» and «OK», but all this might well be used for a few days to communicate with the communicator. The upper part of the front panel is decorated with voice speaker, two status LEDs and a frequent attribute of 3G-devices - a camera for video calls. Edging the chamber is in red and stands out strongly enough against the background of the classic color scheme of the device. Now we shall examine the verge of the device. To begin with, they are all made from high quality plastic coated Soft-Touch, which also adds ergonomic device.On the right side of the device can find a small metal key to call the camera a few protruding above the surface of the communicator and the on / off button, located on one level with the body. Both keys have a small move, however, clicking on them are quite visible, although at first intuitively pressing the Power button is not always turned out.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Left of them are "rocker" volume control and a button that activates the voice recorder by default. At the bottom you can find the headset jack, having a cross section of 2.5 mm. Around the middle of the hole is "soft reset your device.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
On the upper side, we did not find anything but a relief inscription «GPS», well, the lower end of the device contains a microphone hole, a standard connector MiniUSB and a slot for memory cards MicroSD. Slot tightly closed plastic plug, installing a memory card does not cause too much difficulty, can not be said about the extraction thereof. Mechanism itself "pushes" the card on a relatively small distance from the building, and users who do not have long nails, require some dexterity to remove the memory card from the device.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
At the rear of the glofiish X800 is possible to find hands-free speaker and the main window, 2-megapixel camera, equipped with a self-portrait mirror and a small LED flash. Outlining the main chamber, as well as an extra, done in red.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
As in previous models, the stylus is located in the lower right corner, and he still has a telescopic design. Housing stylus is made of metal with plastic inserts in the top and bottom. When folded, its length is very small, so that, in most cases, the stylus will decompose. Removing the stylus of the foam is too much difficulty, thanks to highly visible ledge at the top.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
In general, the ergonomics of the device deserves evaluation "4 +" particularly pleased that the E-Ten has finally moved the buttons and navigation software to the Today screen on the bottom of the device. The quality of housing also raises no objections. Perhaps the only bad moment - a small backlash battery cover. We hope that this is the problem of our sample.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Screen

glofiish X800 is the second communicator E-Ten with a VGA-screen. screen size remains unchanged, its diagonal is 2.8.'' Picture quality is excellent, as is the case with its predecessor. Drawing is faster, affecting availability of the new processor, although some delays still occur. Still, the processors Intel / Marvell cope with this problem better. To adjust the backlight is still provided 11 divisions. At a minimum illumination of just noticeable, it is barely sufficient for reading electronic books in the absence of light. For these purposes, is more appropriate second level. Well, for 10-11 backlight level, information on the screen readable even in bright sunlight.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Speed ​​and memory.

glofiish X800 is the first communicator E-Ten processor equipped with a Samsung SC32442 500 MHz. More precisely, the architecture is the same as in previous models, but here is the clock frequency is increased, that the best way impact on the speed device.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Even at first glance, we see an updated processor to better cope with the VGA-resolution than is the case with the X500 +. Of course, the small delay when scrolling list of files there are, but they do not cause particular discomfort. In fairness, we note that the Gigabyte i350 handles drawing the picture is somewhat better, and basically it is a credit to the processor. In comparison with the X500 +, our today's hero-one wins in any case, it is noticeable when opening large files and run heavy applications. Now check whether the user experience with the indicators of traditional means of assessing performance communicators running Windows Mobile - an application Spb Benchmark.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
As is evident from the results, an updated processor at 500 MHz added communicator glofiish X800 points only in the tests on the calculation, according to other indicators, the novelty of approximately the same level as its predecessor X500 +. However, do not forget that the tests are sometimes not quite give the correct results, as we have repeatedly convinced. And now look at the results of video tests that are traditionally performed by the player TCPMP.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800 handles video playback a bit better than previous models, and still watch movies in high quality "native resolution screen device is problematic in dynamic scenes visible frame skipping and freezes. Therefore it is better to convert movies with pre-medium settings. If the conversion for some reason can not be in the player to set the average quality in the video settings and switch video output to GDI. With these parameters, video playing is acceptable, albeit with some loss of quality - the image loses its sharpness. Assess the quality can be submitted to the following screenshots.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
TCPMP: high quality
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
TCPMP: medium quality
Naturally, the on-screen 2.8-inch difference is not as evident, but nevertheless noticeable. With rollers the lower resolution of 320x240 glofiish X800 handles confidently, they can recommend to see, besides these movies have a distinct advantage, their small size.

Memory

Another nice improvement concerns the amount of memory for data storage. Compared with the X500 +, he doubled and is 256 MB, of which the user can use a little more than 170 MB. The figure is very nice, especially considering that Windows Mobile 6 Professional «weighs" a lot, and if the standard 128 MB memory balance is hardly enough to store a gentleman's set of programs, which often do not want to install to your memory card. Suffice it to recall the same X500 +, where the 128 MB had only 50 MB or HTC Touch, in which the user of the total pie gets only 35 MB. Decision is correct and no doubt it can be inscribed in the column strengths device. RAM size remained unchanged at the standard 64 MB. After rebooting, the user has at its disposal about 20 MB.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
It is worth to pay attention to the numerous software additions included in the kit may be someone they are not needed. If you get rid of all add-ins can be released yet about 4-5 MB of RAM. Subtotal get about 25MB of RAM, for most everyday tasks such volume is sufficient, but sometimes there is a shortage of memory. During testing, this occurred, for example, in a route navigation software iGO, if before running out of memory were not unloaded unnecessary programs. Recall that an increase in user memory, you can use memory cards microSD, the maximum amount which at present is 2 GB.

Sound

Pleased to note that the new communicator E-Ten offers traditional high quality of sound, of course, in its class. Subjective, even better than X500/M700/X500 +. True, the volume while listening to music in conjunction Media Player Mobile plus standard headset leaves something to be desired.But if you acquire a quality headset, adapter for 3.5 mm and change the software player, the X800 in a position to replace its owner inexpensive MP3-Player. By volume the basic dynamics of no claims, it is nice that the sound is not only loud, but quite clean, even at maximum volume levels. Vibrate is not very strong when compared with other devices, but in any case, duplicating their audible warning to miss an incoming call will not be easy.

Sociability

Phone

For GSM - module capable to work in networks GSM 850/900/1800/1900, added support for the work in the networks HSDPA / UMTS. Recall that the X800 is the first 3G-smartphone from E-Ten. Given the proactive actions of the Russian operators to introduce new high-speed networks, this is an obvious plus. Now, support for 3G mobile devices from useless function gradually turns into a nice complement conventional capabilities phones and communicators, as once happened with the technology of EDGE. In the phone menu you can choose from 3 modes:
  • UMTS
  • GSM
  • AUTO
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Of course, not without support EDGE. Thus, glofiish X800 with the HTC P3600 comes out ahead according to the telephone capabilities by providing high-speed transmission as in GSM, and the networks third generation.

Bluetooth

Module Bluetooth, built-in glofiish X800, is no different from what we saw in X500/M700/X500 + and has a maximum capacity today. There is support for EDR-technology in order to transfer files at speeds over 1 Mbps, implemented the A2DP profile for listening to music through the stereo-Bluetooth headset. The module is running drivers from the company from Microsoft, but, traditionally, E-Ten offers its superstructure called Bluetooth Manager, which greatly simplifies the interaction with not too friendly a standard interface. During testing, Bluetooth has worked steadily, without interruption interact with a smartphone Nokia N-GAGE QD, communicator ASUS P525, and Sony Ericsson headsets and Jabra.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Wi-Fi

And here too, all unchanged, still has the support not only 802.11b, but 802.11g, which can transmit data at speeds up to 54 Mbps. If we compare with previous models, the process of testing X800 behaved slightly worse in weak reception, when the same X500 still finds the network and allows data transfer, X800 connected, but here, for example, open a Web-page is not allowed , citing the weak signal. Most likely, this is a feature of our sample, because the "iron" filling the new device did not change compared with previous models. In any case, the work of Wi-Fi can be evaluated "above average" in terms of the normal reception device to easily find wireless networks and quickly connected to them. Connection stability also remains on top.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
All wireless interfaces are managed by a standard program of Wireless Manager.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Multimedia

Luggage

glofiish X800 is equipped with a camera with 2 megapixel resolution, as well as previous models. The camera interface has not undergone any special changes, all the same great icon-oriented management of a finger. Subjectively, one of the most successful solutions. Appeared auto-focus function, through which images are received better. Recall that in the X500 + has autofocus software, designed exclusively for macro mode. The new model is no longer a separate mode for shooting objects at close range, while auto-focus works well in all modes. If we compare the quality of the photos from the "leaders» Samsung i710 or ASUS P525/P535, then our hero is somewhat inferior. Images are more blurred, with lots of digital noise and distortion. Plus, the autofocus does not work too fast. In order to get a blurry photo does not need to tightly hold the device in their hands, since, by clicking on the camera before capturing a fragment of the world is a significant amount of time, which is quite enough to turn a potentially great shot in a bunch of colorful shapeless spots. Not be ruled out that this is a feature of the current firmware, and commercial examples camera will work better. The main options available in camera mode as follows:
  • Shooting Mode: Normal, Portrait and shooting with the timer
  • File format: BMP, JPG, JPG + Exif
  • Picture Size: 1600x1200, 1280x960, 640x480, 320x240, 176x144
  • White Balance: Auto, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Cloudy, Shade, Cloudy, Evening
  • Effects: Negative, Grayscale, Retrospection, reflection
  • Enable or disable the "print" the date of the picture
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
We note that, format, save JPG + EXIF ​​as well as in the X500 + allows you to save the coordinates where the picture was taken. Of course, if the catch, we're in the area of ​​signal reception GPS. As you can see, the biggest changes to the camera with respect to low-end models - the emergence of AF. In fairness, we note that the glofiish X800 allows you to capture not only the main camera, but on the outside. True, in the second case, the maximum image resolution will not exceed 640x480. Communicator allows you to shoot movies in the format 3GP. The maximum resolution - 320x240, no matter what camera we use - primary or subsidiary. C examples of photos and video you can see below.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 444,7 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 607,7 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 647,6 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 712,7 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 491,5 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 457,8 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: example photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 455,3 Kb)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: the example video (3gp, 320x240, 20 sec, 1,8 MB)
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
glofiish X800: the example video (3gp, 320x240, 18 sec, 589.6 MB)

Radio

Radio - another business card communicators glofiish. And another feature in which nothing has changed from previous models. The reception quality is very confident, have the soft key the lights. Still no playback through the speakerphone and radio recordings. The memory can store up to 50 radio stations for the regions of Europe (87,5-108 MHz), Japan (76,0-90 MHz) and USA (87,5-107,9 MHz).
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Runtime

In the device installed battery with 1530 mAh. Capacity is the same as in X500/M700/X500 +. Given the functional similarity of the models, we can assume that the battery life X800 will not differ greatly from that of the same X500 +. To test our hypothesis, we have traditionally subjected X800 tested for the duration of work in 3 main modes: the maximum load. Vykruchena the brightness to maximum volume of the speaker - also included Wi-Fi network in the search mode, and Bluetooth, the Windows Media Player in the cycle is played a "heavy" video, match for the screen resolution. Battery life in this mode was 3 hours and 32 minutes. Normal operation. All wireless modules are disabled. The brightness set to minimum. On the PDA was started reading the text in Haali Reader with automatic scrolling. Time work was 11 hours 42 minutes. MP3 Playback. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned off, the backlight set to minimum. Listening through headphones at maximum volume. We used a Pocket Media Player and files with bitrates 192 KB / c. Time work 8 hours 44 minutes.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Indicators are not the most prominent, the novelty, even a bit less glofiish X500 +, tested in similar conditions. Presumably, the presence of a faster processor. In the everyday use, which includes 10-15 minutes of calls, about half an hour reading e-books, and 20-30 minutes of wireless interfaces glofiish X800 to work a little less than two days. This figure can be considered average for communicators.

Module for GPS-navigation

To implement the navigation functions, the X800 uses one of the most popular GPS-chips SiRFStar III. This 24-channel module has proved to be the best hand, because it provides reliable communication with the satellites and in most cases it does not require an external antenna, connectivity, which, incidentally, our today's hero is deprived, in contrast to the glofiish X500 +. Evaluation of the GPS was held in conjunction with the popular navigation software iGO. At first start, X800 told us your location in about a minute. Time hot-start in most cases did not exceed 5 seconds. During testing, no failures in the GPS was not observed, the communicator is stably kept in touch with satellites and quickly recalculates the route if necessary. True, we must remember that before starting the navigation is better to close all unnecessary programs that otherwise might fail due to lack of memory, as we mentioned just above.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten

Soft

glofiish X800 is the second communicator E-Ten preloaded with Windows Mobile 6 Professional. Recall that, for low-end models of the company - X500 and M700 - the official updates available, which can be downloaded for free on our site http://www.etencorp.com/Support/WM6/. The main differences of the new operating system from Windows Mobile 5.0 PE can be found in the survey glofiish X500 +, and therefore, in this section, we will pay attention to the additional software is preinstalled on a new device. First, we list the traditional glofiish programs that you might encounter in the previous communicators issued under this brand. M-Desk. The program, separating the functions of the communicator in several categories.Some kind of alternative to the standard menu «Start».
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Battery Meter. A small program that displays charge status in the upper right corner of the screen. Location SMS. The program, which creates a message to our coordinates, of course, not without the help of built-in GPS receiver.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Sattelite Data Update - a utility is able to load data on the location of satellites using GPRS, thereby reducing the time required for the definition of our coordinates when running GPS.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
GPS Viewer - a program designed to define our coordinates with the integrated GPS. A sort of GPS-compass.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Backup Utility. Backup and recovery
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Multimedia Manager - a small, fairly easy and fast browser for multimedia files stored in the memory of our device.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Quick Bar - familiar brand launcher in a new guise.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Namecard Manager - utility to recognize business cards. By default, the program has provided support for the Russian language. Recognition quality is average. Quite often, the program substitutes the Cyrillic characters similar to writing in Latin.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Also remained unchanged and the program block for easy management of telephone functions of the communicator: Add Ringtone - a program for easy installation of the bell ringing in various formats
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Call Filter - a means to filter incoming calls
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Scenarios - a program that adds sound profiles in Windows Mobile, in the manner of conventional phones or Symbian-smartphones
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Sim Manager - utility for working with contacts stored on the Sim-card.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Speed ​​Dial - alternative to the standard speed dial.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
In addition, the list of additional software had some very interesting and useful new recruits: Task Manager - a program with the telling name. A small task manager that allows you to switch between different applications or close them selectively or all at once. By default, the program is not tied to any of the hardware buttons, but personal experience has shown that setting it to press the recorder, the need for third-party applications may fall away.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Spb Mobile Shell - multifunction suspension of the operating system, we wrote about in one of the materials HPCru. Included with the glofiish X800 comes unlimited in time, but a few stripped-down version of the popular shell from Spb Software House. Available display functions weather, the speed dial list with the ability to assign photos, imaging time in three time zones, as well as a list of most frequently used programs. Present and battery indicator.
Glofiish X800: the first 3G-smartphone from the company E-Ten
Excellent set of additional programs - one of business cards communicators glofiish, in the case with the new model manufacturers, as always, do not hit the face in the dirt, giving the user a large number of diverse and, most importantly, useful programs, thereby freeing him from immediately after purchase surf the global network to bring your communicator "to mind." Particularly pleased that, along with proprietary applications, E-Ten has included a set of programs from third-party vendor. Let's hope for further fruitful cooperation with the E-Ten Spb Software House.

Price

At the time of review was published retail price glofiish X800 is about 21,000 rubles.

Conclusions

Before us again advanced device from the company E-Ten. glofiish X800 is the first VGA-communicator with 3G, and this is its main difference from its predecessor X500 +. Among other things, the manufacturer reviewed the shortcomings X500 + and increased the amount of memory for storing data, as well as the CPU clock. The result is a flagship model that combines all of the latest wireless technology, high-quality screen with a resolution of 640x480, good processor and interesting design. Fact, competitors are not very realistic. Repeats the situation with X500 +, which at the time, he is the most functional Windows Mobile-communicator. In addition, a few days ago in leaked information about the glofiish M800, which will Hotkeys X800. In conclusion, according to tradition, we distinguish the advantages and disadvantages glofiish X800 in the appropriate column.
    Pros:
  • VGA-screen
  • A complete set of wireless interfaces, including 3G support
  • Different set of preinstalled programs
    Cons:
  • Small amount of RAM
  • Slow camera
The authors, translation:

ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad

If something is not enough ASUS P525 communicator full of happiness, because it's GPS-receiver. Compact device with a convenient numeric keypad, productive processor, an impressive battery life and excellent camera as a nice bonus, but without GPS. At the time of occurrence of the first data on the model of ASUS P526 all of the sudden thought that he would be the older brother P525, the decision "all in one." However, the official announcement and announcement of the technical parameters for many has brought only disappointment. And indeed, many points have been simplified in comparison with the previous model. For example, the camera lost the autofocus, a processor from Intel replaced the much less productive TI OMAP850, disappeared Wi-Fi-module, but appeared in GPS-receiver. That's not all the changes, but the above items is enough to understand that the P525 and P526 - a completely different device. There is, however, good news. Compared with the previous model, the new design ASUS has become more compact and significantly lighter, that will be appreciated by users wishing to buy a smartphone as a replacement for an ordinary mobile phone. Well, about that today we will talk in detail. In the meantime, let's see who will compete P526. And, oddly enough, direct competitors of new items from ASUS yet. Among the most similar in features are HTC P3300 (Artemis), who has lost the status of the hot new items, but gained a huge army of fans. P526 distinguishes it from the lack of numeric keypad and the availability of Wi-Fi module and FM-tuner. The other characteristics are very similar, as well as prices, although at the start of Artemis was worth more. So, we proceed to a detailed review.
    Main technical characteristics
  • 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, 240x360, 65536 colors
  • Memory Expansion: microSD (up to 2 GB)
  • Communication capabilities: GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, GRPS / EDGE (Class 10), Bluetooth (1.2)
  • Camera: 2 megapixel camera (without autofocus)
  • Battery: Li-Pol, 1300 mAh, removable
  • Audio: microphone, speaker, 2.5-mm headset jack
  • Dimensions and weight: 110 x 58 x 15.4 mm and 115 g.
  • Claimed battery life: up to 150 hours of standby time, up to 4 hours talk time
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Reduce the size of the body manufacturer was mainly due to reduction of diagonal screen. If the same ASUS P525 offers the standard 2.8 inches, then we see here is 2.6 inches. When working screen does not seem so small, the difference can be noticed only if you hold the device near. Slightly surprised by an outdated version of Bluetooth-module (1.2), in light of the fact that most of the WM-novelties has Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR. And recently, Bluetooth Special Interest Group presented specification 2.1, so that in the near future we should expect widespread dissemination of this standard. However, ASUS P526 supports A2DP and many other popular profiles, so that the complaint here is not particularly matter what. Speak at length about this, we will later, but now vskroem box and familiarize themselves with its contents.

Supplied

Completion is quite good: with the minimum necessary related accessories available yet, and several additional accessories to facilitate the work with the device when using the GPS-functions. Full set as follows:
  • ASPS P526 smartphone
  • stylus
  • Cover leatherette
  • wired headset
  • battery
  • automotive fastener
  • charger from the 220V
  • charger from the cigarette lighter socket
  • USB / mini USB cable for synchronization
  • user manual, warranty card
  • 3 CD with accompanying software
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
The stylus is collapsible. Outwardly, he seems totally plastic, so it seems a bit easier usual. In fact, within the stylus is a metal rod, so for fear of damage to the stylus is not necessary. At the upper end there is a significant overhang, allowing no problem removing the pen from a pencil-box, which is located on the lower right corner of the case. Spare stylus, unfortunately, is not provided.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Case makes a very contradictory impression. On the one hand, it is quite stylish. But on the other - not too comfortable. It's a cross between a handbag to be worn on the belt and the usual "pocket". On the mind - a handbag, in fact - the pocket. The disadvantage lies in the fact that the cover of the communicator can not get quickly - prevents the eyelet for attaching wrist or neck strap, which, incidentally, is not included. The logic of this decision are difficult to understand. Same ASUS P525 comes with the traditional holster to be worn on the belt, which was at times more convenient. But ... it should be noted that with their protective functions of the local Case stravlyaetsya. Thank you and on this one.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
The headset is very ordinary. Exactly the same was included with a model P525. The sound quality is enough in it - you can even listen to music, but the connector has a cross section of 2.5 mm, so that the use of higher quality headphones will have to buy an adapter.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
And finally, car mount and charger. The presence of these accessories are bundled today boasts nearly every modern GPS-communicator. Was no exception, and ASUS P526. Mount consists of a plastic frame in which "sits" bendable tripod apparatus and the suction cup. In our case, sucker several times spontaneously peel off from the windshield and the whole structure fell to the floor. Most likely, this marriage of suckers in the case of one particular kit.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Well, a nice addition to everything listed was 3 disks with the software: one with ActiveSync 4.5, the second - with dictionaries from Paragon Software and third - with additional programs, including popular package Spb Pocket Plus.

Design and Ergonomics

Box with the ASUS P526 is decorated with the logo of the Association of International Forum Design, saying that the novelty has won the prestigious IF Product Design Award. But do not think that the design of the communicator is something extraordinary: the face of the P526 is very similar to its predecessor, and is broadly consistent with expectations.Housing has become significantly smaller (110 x 58 x 15.4 mm versus 117 x 59 x 19 mm) and much lighter (115 g versus 160 g), thus become even more convenient to carry in any pocket device. Generally speaking, ASUS P526 - the most compact smartphone with numeric keypad and a very small device with navigation functions.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Model is only available in gray, other options will not. In general, it looks very strict and kept - no frills design do not. All brilliant, as you know - always very simple. For more expressive facial side of the case is framed by a silver inlay, while the rear has a black strip on which the speaker and camera lens. However, all the same detailed examination of the case we start from the front side, the bulk of which takes the screen. At the top, above the display, you might consider a slot of voice dynamics, and a single LED, which share fell immediately opovestitelnye features (GPS, Bluetooth, reminders, network, and so on).
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Under the screen is a keyboard, which evolved a comparison with the keyboard ASUS P525. Firstly, it was gone way navigation joystick. Secondly, the changed location of keys and their purpose. Soft keys are now of pairwise aligned with buttons and voice control the main menu. However, several injured ergonomics, coupled buttons are very thin, with a small reserve and also located close to the bottom row of the keypad. However, after two or three days of use they can be used. But still, in our view, the implementation of these elements in a model of P525 was better. And finally, the last apparent change, keys slightly decreased in size. They still have a convex shape, a sufficient stock of progress and a clear response when pressed. Use them conveniently. The size of the inscriptions on the keys has not changed - they are perfectly readable, even by people with low vision.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Well, illuminated keyboard is very uniform, bright white color. Turn off the backlight manually is impossible, and ambient light sensors that automatically turn on / off illuminating LEDs to communicators is not reached.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
It is worth saying more about what can be reassigned only three keys of the whole array, or rather two: the start button for the voice application management and lower left, which by default allows you to switch between running programs. For these two buttons can be assigned to the three steps, since the first works in two modes: pressing and long-term retention. As for typing, there is a full order. The keyboard is just as convenient for a set of short messages (SMS-messages, e-mail), as well as the keys of any phone. But, of course, for a set of large texts it is not intended. Let us turn to the left side of the face.Here was discovered the wheel, which is intended to replace the navigation joystick and a small button "OK". Jog-dial functions as the scroll and pressed to confirm the call. On the one hand - this is very convenient, especially when reading. But on the other hand, it is unlikely that element could be a full replacement for the joystick. When the required soft-keys have to use second hand or stylus. Well, the games require push-button controls, as you know, have to forget. If you talk about as a realization of the wheel, it is at altitude - find fault with absolutely no sense.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Right sidewall includes switch Hold, which blocks the hardware buttons and screen, as well as an expansion slot microSD, a small hole, hiding the "soft" reset, and a camera button. Memory card slot is open, it does not provide any screws, not covering the rubber caps. And to start the photo-based applications need to continuously retain the button. Very, in our view, a logical decision. In other models, it often happened involuntary pressing this key and activate the camera at the wrong time. Now, such cases are excluded.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
As for sides with, here we see the painfully standard set of elements. Bottom - connector mini-USB, which connects the two chargers and sync cable, as well as 2,5-millimeter audio jack, microphone slot and the stylus holder (right). As already mentioned - the stylus is removed quite simply thanks to the ledge on top of the pen. Upper end contains only the key on / off device.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Back of the remarkable decorative black inlay, which is located camera lens, the lattice dynamics of the system and hidden under a plug connector for external GPS-antenna. Battery cover takes up three-quarters of the back side and lifted a familiar downward spiral. Under it - the battery, covering the slot for SIM-card.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Summarizing the external examination, we note the good build quality. All elements of the perfect fit, the body is perceived as a monolith, and battery compartment lid, in spite of the small thickness and the apparent fragility fixed almost perfectly still and did not issue any sound when you try to squeeze the very device in his hand. Ergonomics is good, true to the possibility of a full one-handed use so far away - such a peccadillo is found in all modern communicators. However, ASUS, as well as other vendors work in this direction, it shows. So for the design, ergonomics and build quality put the "four-plus" and turn to the display.

Screen

As we noted at the beginning of the review, screen size smaller than the standard P526 and is only 2.6 inches. But other technical parameters of the matrix did not differ from the majority counterparts.It has the usual resolution of 240 x 320 pixels and shows 65536 colors. The viewing angles are quite good, but the local screen picked up a slight drawback P525. When looking at the screen from top to an angle of about 20-30 degrees there is a pale yellow tint, which slightly spoils the overall impression, but by and large does not carry anything terrible. Backlight brightness adjustable in 8 steps, as well as all the latest PDA ASUS. This is quite sufficient for the selection of brightness under any lighting conditions. The maximum level lets you read from the screen in bright sunlight. Vision, of course, have to strain, but the information is readable. While the lowest level is comfortable for reading in the dark. Perhaps that is all we can say. Modern communicators are not too different from each other on display quality. So in this respect, the novelty of the ASUS is no better or worse than any other current model.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad

Speed ​​and memory

Role of the central processor in ASUS P526 performs well familiar to you processor Texas Instruments OMAP850 200 MHz. This means that the function of manual control processor speed, available in communicators P525 and P535, will have to forget. Moreover, we can directly talk about the impossibility of viewing unconverted video and many modern games. Not very good news for those who are considered a novelty, as a potential replacement last keyboard model from ASUS. However, it should be noted that when working with the operating system interface device rather quickly. , There are no delays when opening various items on the menu, or transactions with the settings. True, when displaying a large list of contacts, or the files in Windows Explorer "noticeably slow down your machine-read. The same is observed at the opening of the texts in the format of Word Mobile, pdf-file and when reading large playlists. In order to clarify the overall system performance has been traditionally used Spb Benchmark test package from the company Spb Software House. For comparison, we chose the model ASUS P525 (to assess the performance difference between what "was" and that "was") and HTC P3300 (Artemis) - as the closest competitor and closest to the technical parameters of the communicator.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
The results were at the level of expectations. ASUS P526 is kept roughly on par with the HTC P3300: in some tests, it is a bit behind in others - on the contrary, it behaves much better than its nearest competitor. The difference with the P525 is huge, in principle, is also easily explainable only one mention of the CPU clock speed. Test results for TCPMP player show almost the same as Spb Benchmark. In general, P526 shows performance similar to P3300, yielding only a few percent in each roller. This difference can easily be attributed to testing error. But the overall results, as always, are presented in tabular form.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
All this implies a simple conclusion. On the PDA ASUS P526 comfortably watch can only be a resolution of 320 x 176 pixels or less. Theoretically, you can download and QVGA-movies, but in a particularly dynamic scenes, they will slow down your. Recall that the figure given in the table shows the average speed of play, so that as an indicator of the applicable rate of reproduction rate is taken 120%. As for memory, here we observe a standard pattern: the communicator is equipped with 128 MB ROM and 64 MB of RAM.From the area of ​​memory for the user's needs is given about 44.98 MB of ROM and - 44.28 MB. The expansion slot supports microSD cards up to two gigabytes. Yes, it is worth noting that when you first start your device automatically starts installation of localization, which eats up a couple of megabytes of available area.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad

Sound

On the part of sonic possibilities P526 generally happy. The external speaker sounds loud enough, that lets you hear the call anywhere - even in the subway, even on the street, at least out of the bag. During his stay in the room is enough mid-level volume, otherwise the sound will cut ear. Voice speaker to the sound peculiar tint, which is unusual at first. However, the sound is very high quality, even at maximum volume does not appear any foreign wheeze. But again, in most cases it will suffice to medium volume level, or voice your buddy will be clearly audible to others. Headset, as we have noted, too, sounds very good. However, when you connect other headphones (ear from the iPod nano and more home Koss) the sound was noticeably better, which suggests that the high quality of implementation of the sound path. To reiterate, the device is equipped with an audio jack with a cross section 2.5 mm, so to use other headphones have to acquire appropriate adapter. Although, you could just buy A2DP-headset and listen to music without wires. Benefit, Bluetooth-module device allows 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 short, the recorder P526 can say exactly the same as any other device. Well, here we note vibrate, which is due to the large amplitude of very good feel of his pocket, even when walking. And if your device is on the table, then the sound of the vibration can be heard when no worse than the sound from the speaker.

Communication capabilities

Telephone module P526 supports a quad GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, and supports data transfer protocols GRPS and EDGE. Calls are made through the standard application Phone. For added convenience, a filter calls.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
From wireless modules in the device is present only Bluetooth 1.2. Infrared port there, as well as Wi-Fi. On the one hand - it is clear that engineers have sought to make P526 as accessible as possible (at) navigation solution and a lot of things had to be abandoned in the design process. However, Wi-Fi, in our view, this would come in very handy. In this case the P526 would compete with the HTC P3300 on an equal footing, and the numeric keypad would be an additional argument in favor of purchasing model ASUS. Module Bluetooth, oddly enough, is controlled by the driver from Microsoft, the standard for Windows Mobile. And this moment is not quite clear. The same P525, for example, possessed driver from Broadcomm, much more convenient to use. However, to complain about. The local "Blue tooth" demonstrates a stable job. The tests took place in a classic case. We linked the device with other communicators and PDA (HTC P3300, Fujitsu Siemens Pocket Loox C550, HP iPAQ rw6815), with a wireless headset Jabbra and Nokia 6021 and Sony Ericsson K790i. In all cases, the connection took place without problems.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Supported profile A2DP, allowing play music through wireless headphones, and 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). Can not be silent about the USB-connection, which uses a protocol USB 1.1, resulting in up data on your device is long enough. However, there is the possibility of a small speed (Turbo Mode) and use the device as a card reader that allows you to copy files from your computer without installing ActiveSync.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad

GPS

Integrated GPS-receiver is based on the chipset SiRFStar III, the most popular solution among all of the latest PDAs and smartphones. About him we have to say almost every survey, but still recall its declared characteristics: 20 channels, while hot-start - 1 second, warm - 35 seconds, the cold - 42 seconds. In fact, to run away a little more time. For example, a hot start is unlikely to take you less than five seconds. But anyway, this is a very good indicator. The tests were carried out of the receiver in an urban setting in motion of the car and on foot. And in general, proved to be a good communicator. Connection is lost only where and fitting - in tunnels, under bridges and so on. On the housing provides a connector for an external antenna, but the actual antenna, together with the communicator is not available, and resort to using it you probably do not have to. No navigation software included with the communicator is not available, it will have to buy separately. There are only a small utility GPS Catcher, allows you to update satellite data and a little speed up the process of integrating the navigation module.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad

Capabilities built-in camera

Luggage somewhat simplified compared to the P525 or P535. Matrix resolution remained unchanged (2 megapixels), but the auto focus was eliminated, which greatly affected the quality of received images. Taking into account the fact that the lens of the camera shutter does not cover and is located in a place where often gets the thumb, while keeping the device at the ear and get ready for what the lens would have to be regularly cleaned. Arising from the missing autofocus consequence - the disappearance of the program to recognize business cards. And let the last model of its work aroused serious criticism - it is, however, accelerates the entry of new contacts. Now we have to do it manually. Range of settings is virtually identical with itself in ASUS P525. White balance can be automatically detected (oddly enough, is correct in most cases) or selected from a preset (daylight, cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, and so on). Photos can be done in the following sizes: 1600 x 1200, 1280 x 960 640 x 480 320 x 240 160 x 120 and 80 x 60. There is 2,5-times digital zoom, as well as various effects (black & white, sepia, negative, etc.). Below you can see some examples of photography. On some clearly visible dug the upper left edge. Sometimes pictures are more or less acceptable quality, but they pale in comparison with that demonstrated auto-focus camera ASUS P525/P535.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 214.6Kb)
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 421.1Kb)
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 235.0Kb)
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 254.4Kb)
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 286.7Kb)
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (jpg, 1600x1200, 357.8Kb)
Video recording is available in two formats: MPEG4 and 3GP. The maximum resolution for 3pg-rollers is 176 x 144, but for mp4 - 160 x 120. Quality, of course, is very low. However, evaluate yourself.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: an example of the photo (3gp, 176x144, 623.6Kb)

Runtime

Frankly, we expected from the P526 more impressive results than he has shown in fact. Battery capacity has not changed in comparison with P525, the screen dropped, the processor has become less productive, but the results, contrary to all logic, have become lower. No, you do not think that everything has become really bad. Just the notion of "device from ASUS" has always been associated with us to the term "record-breaking battery life." And now the company is slightly undermined his reputation. Well, our method of testing lately has not undergone any changes, let's look at the results: the maximum load. The brightness set to maximum, the speaker volume is also included Bluetooth, GPS-module, and through Windows Media Player in a loop in the loop play "hard" video.Battery life in this mode was 4 hours 14 minutes. Normal operation. All wireless modules are disabled. The brightness is set to the second division of the account. On the PDA started reading the text in Haali Reader with automatic scrolling. Time work was 20 hours 11 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. Opening hours 13 hours 51 minutes.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
The diagram shows that represent the results of P526 versus P525 and the HTC P3300. As you can see, the novelty markedly inferior to the previous keyboard communicator of the company. When using the device in mixed mode, which means about 20-30 minutes of calls a day, listening to music for a short, short sessions synchronization via Bluetooth, the reading of a half-hour + navigation, then the battery for a half days is almost completely discharged. If using GPS exclusively in the car, connect the charger, then, of course, the term "life" of the battery will be higher. This is quite average. Very unusual to see such numbers in the test device from ASUS. We hope that the release of P750, the next P-series smartphone, which already looks very promising, the company will be able to restore the tattered reputation.

Software stuffing

The communicator runs on Windows Mobile 6, which we have already repeatedly mentioned. Therefore, the detail only on software additions. A set of preinstalled programs traditionally impressive. Since the time of the latest models, it has improved markedly, although the bulk of the application should be familiar to those who enjoyed the R525, or those who read our review of that model. ASUS Status. This program displays a small window that shows CPU usage, free memory as that of the device itself and not the memory card. Along with this it gives you quick access to relevant sections of the settings.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Mode Switcher. It lets you quickly switch between running applications - for this has a separate key (the lowest in the left vertical row) - By analogy with the keyboard combination "ALT + TAB" on your PC. In addition, it allows you to quickly return to the Today screen and my screen orientation.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Voice Commander. A familiar application for configuring voice control. Everything works just as well as on other devices. It is hardly worth talking about it in detail.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Java. This application is designed to open applications written in Java. So you can run applications designed for mobile phones. Not a fact, of course, that they will work correctly, but, for example, with games and software JBenchmark, designed to test the speed of Java there are no problems. ASUS Launcher. Menu, accelerating access to basic functions, programs and settings. Implemented in exactly the same way as me on the communicator Samsung SGH-i710.Differs only in appearance, and many major sections. It is remarkable that you can customize the look of the menu - in the form of a matrix 3 x 4 icons, or in a vertical list. Can you call the menu useless? Of course not! It actually does work better. And for those who use many third-party software provides the ability to add shortcuts to various locations.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
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, and on disk from a kit you can find all the popular plug-in Spb Pocket Plus. In short, the program stuffing ASUS has taken care as well as before. Before us is a very solid set of software.

Price issue

At the time of publication of material retail value Communicator ASUS P526 in the shops of "computer in the palm" is 15,600 rubles. The unit began to be sold not so long ago, so that in the near future we expect a slight reduction in prices.

Conclusions

What is the result? It turns out very controversial device. ASUS P526 is definitely not become a full replacement for P525 - this unit is a completely different class, designed for different user groups. Unique it makes the mere fact that this is the most compact far communicator with GPS-receiver and numeric keypad. Its functionality is slightly weaker than in the same HTC P3300, which has long and very actively for sale. No Wi-Fi, no FM-radio. However, if the opportunity to listen to radio - a mere trifle, and quite unnecessary for many function, the Wi-Fi - that's serious. Look at the models is primarily those who are going to move to a communicator with a mobile phone. You do not have to get used to the size of because they are very close to the phone size. And also to those who need the ability to fast typing without using the stylus. Hardly ASUS P526 will be a bestseller and will be able to compete in terms of circulation with the same HTC P3300, but the buyer, he certainly will.
ASUS P526: GPS with numeric keypad
Well, according to tradition summarize all statements made in the form of a list of advantages and disadvantages:
    Pros:
  • compact size and light weight
  • good set of pre-installed software
  • convenient numeric keypad
  • Wheel
    Cons:
  • mediocre camera
  • no joystick
The authors, translation: