Model:  SMT5600

Manufacturer:  Audiovox

Reviewed By:  Miguel

Review Date:  12/01/04

    A while back, we showed you the first gen Motorola MPX200 smartphone and demonstrated just how functional these devices can be.  Since its release, many users ditched their pocket pc's as they found one device that does just about everything they need.  However, the MPX200 wasn't without its flaws.  It carried the older Smartphone 2002 operating system and lacked a few key features such as bluetooth capabilities and a camera.  Many were desperately awaiting the release of the new MPX220 smartphone, which promised to incorporate these new features and much more.  Well, the phone is out, however, I've found that many, like myself, are quite disappointed with the end product.  For one, the screen is smaller and the price is a bit steep.  It was also plagued with issues that eventually led to a recall.  This is where the Audiovox SMT5600 comes in.  Based upon the highly popular UK model, the SPV 500, the new Audiovox SMT5600 is the US version of the phone which has gained quite a bit of interest among many here in the states.  Bringing a slew of new features, an appealing price tag and a remarkably small design, many have opted for this model over the new MPX220.  Today, we'll take a thorough look at this excellent new smartphone and show you once again what it is really capable of. 

Packaging & Contents

The box contains a Li-ion battery, stereo headset, AC adapter, mini USB cable, companion CD with manual, illustrated quick start guide, SIM Card and a handy leather belt pouch.  I personally love cradles, however, the SMT5600 does not include one.  This was quite disappointing but then again the port is located on the bottom of the phone so chances are, they will release an optional cradle for the phone in the near future.

**click to enlarge**

Fortunately, the SMT5600 includes a carry pouch to protect your investment.  However, I don't particularly like this case and went online searching for a better alternative.

What I found was the absolute perfect case for the Audiovox SMT5600.  I got this from someone in the UK, as it is specially designed for the UK version, the SPV 500.  The case fits the phone like a glove and gives you access to all functions, while providing maximum protection.  The back even features a two button flap that will expose the camera as well.  Highly recommended!

The Design

The SMT5600 is considered the world's smallest smartphone, measuring in at 4.24 x 1.82 x .69 inches.  Regardless of its small form factor, what I particularly like is that they did not skimp on the screen.  It happens to be slightly larger than the new MPX220.  In fact, it's  exactly 2.2", which happens to be the same size of the older MPX200.  This new candy bar style smartphone is quite thin and features a very appealing two-tone black/silver design.  The keypad is quite small, but they have done a good job with it considering the limited amount of space to work with.  The bottom three keys are a bit smaller and the middle d-pad rocker key takes a bit of practice, but all work very well and you'll quickly get the hang of it and zip through menus easily.  On the back side of the phone is your camera and a small self-portrait mirror.

The phone is quite thin and is just slightly thicker than 1/2 an inch.  On the right side is your camera button and your volume control is on your left side.

On the top, you'll find the IR port and power button.  The headphone jack is awkwardly located on the bottom of the phone.  Next to the jack you'll find the mini USB port for power and syncing with your PC.

**click to enlarge**

For those of you wondering, the keypad on the Audiovox SMT5600 is backlit but the phone does feature an excellent light sensor which only lights the keypad in low light conditions and is designed to conserve battery life.  Most of the keys light up a deep blue in color and the call and end keys light up in green and orange.  For those who have owned an Ericsson T68i in the past, the keypad lighting is very similar in comparison.

Additional Storage Options

The Audiovox SMT5600 allows you to install an optional Mini Secure Digital (SD) card.  For those who are unfamiliar with this new storage standard, you'll be quite amazed at just how small this flash cards are.  If you thought an SD card was tiny, wait till you see one of these beauties.  The new Mini SD cards are approximately 60% smaller than an SD card and just slightly larger than a penny in size.  If you purchase one of these by Sandisk, they conveniently include a mini SD adapter that will allow you to insert and read it in a standard SD slot.  Very practical. 

**click to enlarge**

Now, about one of the only complaints people have made regarding this new Smartphone is the actual location of the mini SD slot.  It is behind the battery and therefore, requires you to power off your phone and remove the battery to gain access.  I personally don't see this as a problem at all as I have never had a need to really remove a flash card from a Smartphone.  In fact, I prefer this to a side mount that usually has a very flimsy plastic cover that is prone to breaking over time.  The Motorola MPX200 is a perfect example.

Battery Life

**click to enlarge**

The Audiovox SMT5600 has a large 1050mAh battery that lasts quite a long time between charges.  Battery life is excellent, especially when compared to the MPX200 we looked at a while back.  I've managed to get a full week of standby time with this phone.  Of course, this will all depend on how much you do use it.

Call Quality

Call quality in the Miami, FL area with AT&T was above average but not excellent.  Like the MPX200, the only issue I found was when indoors.  The addition of the 850MHz band did improve reception indoors, but not dramatically.  Regardless, I did not experience any dropped calls but some calls did get cut off temporarily during a conversation. 

Next: The WM2003 SE OS