Smartphone Thoughts: Small, Sleek, and WiFi Enabled: The iMate SP5m Smartphone Reviewed

What sets this device apart from other Windows Mobile 5 Smartphones that are expected to hit the streets soon, is the dedicated music and Internet buttons. Just above the keypad and below the softkeys, you'll find four new buttons: three for music (Forward, Back, and Pause/Play) and one for launching Internet Explorer. Pressing any of these buttons will automatically launch the corresponding application. In the case of Media Player, you can control the music regardless of which application you are currently in. For example, if you're looking at the Home Screen and listening to your favourite song blast out of the speakers, if you press the forward button, it will bring Media Player to the front and then advance to the next song. :)


Figure 4: So much power in such a small package. Click on the image for the full size image. (694KB)

The left side of the SP5m has the typical volume button allowing you to control the speaker and in-call volume with a simple press of your thumb. If you press and hold the volume button it will launch the Voice Tags application, allowing you to quickly call anyone that you have already set up a voice tag for.

There is also a new button on this side of the phone. Located right above the volume button is the launch button for the Comm Manager. One touch takes you to a simple screen allowing you to manage your Bluetooth, WiFi, Silent mode, and ActiveSync states. I had actually mapped the Comm Manager to a speed dial location before I found this handy little button. :mrgreen:


Figure 5: And on the left-hand side you'll see the standard volume controls and the new Comm. Manager buttons.

Not shown in this picture of the left side, is the wrist (or neck) strap mount. It's right down at the bottom of the left side, in line with the number four key. If you've been looking for a way to keep your phone close at every moment, then this is your solution! ;)


Figure 6: And on the right-hand side you'll see the same old boring camera button.