This is my second review at Mouthshut. My earlier review was for the Nokia N 72 which did not last long with me.
After testing various models including the E70, I settled for this model. Even though I needed a business phone, I was reluctant to take this and had decided to take either HTC or Motorola handsets but after seeing the features and the design, I have a winner in my hand.
Earlier to this handset, I had Motorokr E6, a low end touch screen phone which was cumbersome to operate without a physical keyboard but the touch screen was good enough to get you hooked. With this exposure, I wanted a touch screen handset with physical keyboard and this P1i fit in.
One feature that made me an addict is the scroll key that makes me go nuts when I try to use other phones and search for it automatically.
You have to get used to the keyboard which is not so easy initially. But once you start using it, it is a pleasure to type.
Though a bit bulky, it is not as heavy as other handsets with similar features.
The menu is simple and the graphics are awesome.
Themes can be downloaded from the Net and changed on the handset easily.
The WIFI is a bonus.
Sound clarity is good enough.
The camera is not professional one but the quality of photographs are not bad.
The MP3 and FM radio is handy when you need entertainment.
The multitasking feature is good for people who utilise the features of the handset to the maximum. Being a touch screen handset, it is advisable to use a bluetooth headset. My earlier handset’s touch panel stopped working as sweat entered the sensitive areas. If you sweat a lot, it is advisable to wear a bluetooth headset to avoid damage to the touch screen panel.
I am not a game addict but my son loves the Golf game in this handset.
One feature that is not found in other handsets is the vibrating menu, when you press the menu options at the bottom of the screen with the stylus, you get a vibrating effect. This is not a default function but has to be enabled manually.
After using other handsets with navigation keys, you get a little upset while using the P1i but once you get used to it, especially the jog wheel on the left, you will never ever go back to the other handsets.
The best part is the stand provided with the handset, it can be used not only for charging but can connect the handsfree kit and use it while it is sitting in front of you on your desk. This stand can also be connected to your PC for transferring of data. There are numerous blogs and web sites for the P1i from where you can learn the operations easily.
We are all used to the menu system and features of other phones, we find it difficult to use this model but once you are familiar with the operation, you will never ever go back to other handsets as the menu and operation in this handset is different from the others.
Overall, an addictive handset for both business and personal use.