Over a year has passed since Motorola introduced its first Windows Mobile-based Smartphone, the critically acclaimed MPx200, an affordable and stylish clam-shell device based on Microsoft's Smartphone 2002 software. Demonstrating their commitment to the Microsoft platform, Motorola has just introduced a successor to this device—the MPx220.
The MPx220 comes with a limited set of accessories. Like the Orange SPV C500, the MPx220 ships with a USB data cable, not a sync cradle. The cradle that came with the MPx200 was a great accessory, and will be sorely missed! Also included in the package are a power charger, the manual, and the Companion CD (featuring ActiveSync and Outlook).
Motorola makes two versions of the MPx220: one with a silver case and the other with a blackish brown exterior. Interestingly, the texture of the phone surface differs between the two models. Unfortunately, you probably won't be able to select the color of your choice—you'll have to go with the version your wireless service provider offers.
Welcome changes to the hardware
The MPx220 weighs less than the original MPx200, and is slightly smaller. But in that smaller footprint it now packs a quad band GSM radio—a great improvement for U.S. Smartphone users!
The MPx220 directly addresses some of the biggest criticisms of the MPx200. First of all, instead of the clip-on camera that came with the earlier model, it has a built-in 1.3 megapixel digital camera with an LED flash. It also has integrated Bluetooth capability—one of the key features lacking in the MPx200, particularly in Bluetooth-savvy Europe. The external screen on the outside of the device is now color. The frustrating volume dial on the MPx200 has been replaced by more conventional up/down buttons. Finally, the glossy black finish of the earlier model has been replaced by silver or black matte finishes, which are far less susceptible to fingerprints.
The screen on the new device is crisp and bright, stunningly so when compared to its predecessor. Unfortunately, the screen on the MPx220 measures only 2", while one of its main rivals, the Audiovox SMT5600, measures 2.2", as does the MPx200.
Opening the handset—accompanied by the trademark "click" of the hinge—reveals a smart keypad with a well laid out directional pad, and very well-placed buttons.
The MPx220 sports a large, well-laid-out directional pad.
However, there are a few hardware changes that aren't as welcome. The SD card slot on the original has been replaced by a Mini-SD slot, which means that you can't use any SD storage cards you now have. In addition, the MPx220 features Motorola's standard connector, as opposed to the Mini USB connector on the MPx200. This is unfortunate, as the ability to sync/charge with a Mini USB cable is a definite plus.
Excellent performance
The MPx220's 200 MHz Texas Instruments OMAP 1611 processor coupled with increased internal memory provides excellent performance. Cell reception is also excellent, outperforming most other Smartphones I've tried. This is a great achievement, especially since there is no antenna nub sticking out of the top of the device to improve reception.
Battery life is decent, but not on a par with the Audiovox SMT 5600—the undisputed king of the battery-life hill. The MPx220's 1000 mAh lithium-ion battery yields several days of moderate to heavy use.
Useable, but somewhat basic camera
The MPx220 is the first Windows Mobile Smartphone to feature a 1.3 megapixel camera, and the first to feature a flash. Unfortunately, the camera is something of a disappointment. Indeed, some users have reported that the pictures do not compare favorably to those taken even on an Audiovox SMT5600, which features only a VGA-resolution camera. The LED flash on the MPx220 is so weak that it makes little noticeable difference for the pictures taken with it. However, having an integrated camera on the Mp220 is a definite plus when compared to its predecessor, provided you're willing to accept its shortcomings.
Second Edition software
The MPx220 incorporates Windows Mobile 2003 for Smartphone Second Edition, the latest iteration of Microsoft's Smartphone software. Subtle improvements rather than radical changes are the order of the day here. Microsoft has taken steps to address issues raised by Smartphone users in this update, saving major changes for a future release. The software will be a pleasant surprise for those coming from a Smartphone 2002 device.
The MPx220 has implemented Motorola's own text input method, which lags behind the T9 engine incorporated into the Audiovox SMT 5600 and other Smartphones developed by HTC. If you are a heavy user of SMS or e-mail, you might want to find a retailer that stocks the MPx220 and test the device to ensure that the idiosyncrasies of the predictive text input method are acceptable to you!
Solid, reliable phone
The MPx220's touted "ground-breaking features" did not break as much ground as I had hoped. The integrated camera was acceptable rather than exceptional and its battery life was underwhelming, especially when compared to the Audiovox SMT 5600. However, my opinion of the MPx220 has changed over time. Both my wife and I have used it for awhile, and the phone does perform well in everyday use, when features such as the camera take second place to stability and usability.
MPx220 open
The MPx220 is a solid, reliable phone from a well respected manufacturer. It may not be ground breaking, but the improvements over the MPx200 make it the king of the clamshell Smartphone hill!
The Motorola MPx220 is available in the U.S. through Cingular/AT&T Wireless (http://www.cingular.com). It is priced at $299 (with 2 year contract). It will be available in Europe through O2 (http://www.mmo2.com) and other vendors.
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