LG Quantum Windows Phone (AT&T)
Windows Phone 7 came along with just enough fanfare to catch people's attention. Even with the ill-fated Kin on their recent record, Microsoft managed to raise some excitement and anticipation for their latest foray into handheld computing. And this time, it met and exceeded all expectations.
There were several smart things Microsoft did with Windows Phone. One, they moved as far away from Windows Mobile 6.5 as possible. Windows Phone is a new breed, and has none of the ponderous weight of that operating system. Next, they satisfied their small but loyal handheld fanbase by, essentially, creating the Zune Phone we asked for. Also, they managed to cleverly elude all of the (ignorant) ridicule the Zune brand of electronics has endured by not labeling the device as such. But, as those who've played with the amazingly simple and sexy interface of the Zune HD recognize, this phone's workings are essentially the same, albeit matured and expanded upon. Then, Microsoft successfully implemented what is arguably their best project aside from the computer OS, Xbox Live. Another sure way to gain followers, putting some of the Xbox 360 experience in our pockets, at last!
The other elements of Windows Phone are equally impressive. A mobile version of Office comes with the phone. Whatever your preferred email provider is, it'll interface fully with the phone (I use Gmail). Responsiveness and reliability are a joy. Every aspect of the phone shows careful attention to detail, a great sense of artistry, and a mature understanding of what a mobile device should be.
I went into an AT&T store to check out the available hardware. I was a bit disappointed that Microsoft opted to contract out their hardware instead of going the proprietary route, a la Apple, simply because the Zune HD hardware is so good. But these phones are still impressive. I chose the LG model for its materials and finish, which I found to be the best of the three. The Samsung, while attractive, was simply not on par with the solid, quality finish of the LG, and the HTC's slide-out speaker seemed a little too gimmicky for me. The Quantum's keyboard wasn't strictly a requirement, since the onscreen keyboard is quite good. But it is a bit easier for my fingers, and is very high quality and solid feeling. The 16GB capacity also made it easy to bring all my media from a Zune to the phone, which is now my main device. The LG phone also offers a Play To feature, which is essentially a Windows Media Center extension, allows you to stream media to your Xbox 360 via a wireless home network. Microsoft has included a free game, Ilomilo, which has undeniable charm, and is strongly reminiscent of the excellent original artwork that Zune Originals offers for their custom players. It's a joy to behold.
I can't recommend this phone highly enough. Finally, an alternative to the iCulture not only exists, but harnesses the power of some of the biggest and best established media and productivity entities around. not only that, but the whole experience is pure art, and some of the best work Microsoft has ever produced. The only thing better than this? The sound of an achievement unlocking right there in the palm of your hand :)
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| LG Quantum Windows Phone (AT&T) |
Windows Phone 7 came along with just enough fanfare to catch people's attention. Even with the ill-fated Kin on their recent record, Microsoft managed to raise some excitement and anticipation for their latest foray into handheld computing. And this time, it met and exceeded all expectations. 
There were several smart things Microsoft did with Windows Phone. One, they moved as far away from Windows Mobile 6.5 as possible. Windows Phone is a new breed, and has none of the ponderous weight of that operating system. Next, they satisfied their small but loyal handheld fanbase by, essentially, creating the Zune Phone we asked for. Also, they managed to cleverly elude all of the (ignorant) ridicule the Zune brand of electronics has endured by not labeling the device as such. But, as those who've played with the amazingly simple and sexy interface of the Zune HD recognize, this phone's workings are essentially the same, albeit matured and expanded upon. Then, Microsoft successfully implemented what is arguably their best project aside from the computer OS, Xbox Live. Another sure way to gain followers, putting some of the Xbox 360 experience in our pockets, at last! 
I went into an AT&T store to check out the available hardware. I was a bit disappointed that Microsoft opted to contract out their hardware instead of going the proprietary route, a la Apple, simply because the Zune HD hardware is so good. But these phones are still impressive. I chose the LG model for its materials and finish, which I found to be the best of the three. The Samsung, while attractive, was simply not on par with the solid, quality finish of the LG, and the HTC's slide-out speaker seemed a little too gimmicky for me. The Quantum's keyboard wasn't strictly a requirement, since the onscreen keyboard is quite good. But it is a bit easier for my fingers, and is very high quality and solid feeling. The 16GB capacity also made it easy to bring all my media from a Zune to the phone, which is now my main device. The LG phone also offers a Play To feature, which is essentially a Windows Media Center extension, allows you to stream media to your Xbox 360 via a wireless home network. Microsoft has included a free game, Ilomilo, which has undeniable charm, and is strongly reminiscent of the excellent original artwork that Zune Originals offers for their custom players. It's a joy to behold. 
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