Users of the Orange network have had quite a wait for a handset with a built-in modem and infra-red, but if it's any consolation, it's been worth it. Although other networks should have it by now, Orange was the first to offer the shiny new Motorola L7089 Timeport and it has more than matched expectations.
To begin with, the Timeport is the first UK handset to be tri-band. This is irrelevant for use in the UK, but step into Europe and you'll be able to log on to the much more widespread GSM 900 networks (Orange uses the GSM 1800 network). Better still, head for the US and you can use the phone on the GSM 1900 network.
The handset itself is small without being fiddly and is incredibly light, particularly so considering the number of features it crams in. These include voice dialling, a voice memo recorder, shortcut keys that can be assigned to often-used functions, and a vibrating alert. There are only 11 ring tones but all are tastefully done, although the SMS alert lacks a discrete single 'beep' option.
Of course the Timeport's size, weight and worldwide versatility makes it perfect for mobile computer use, and that's where the built-in modem comes into play. With a Windows device (either notebook PC or handheld CE device) the handset just needs to have its infra-red port pointed at the computer's and you can get online at 9.6Kbit/sec.
Psion Series 5 and Revo owners can do the same, but at the time of writing the Series 5mx wouldn't recognise the Timeport at all. A patch is on the way from Psion that will rectify this, however.
Contact Orange 0500 802080
See also:
All Mobile Phones
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