Latest mobiles are small and sophisticated
The trend in mobile phones for the PCN (personal communications network) is small and sophisticated, recent product launches show.
A discreet handset was introduced by Ericsson, perfect to bypass the 'no mobile phone' rule in clubs. Virtually unnoticeable in a pocket or purse, the Supreme 788 is Ericsson's smallest model yet. It is 10.5 centimetres long and weighs just 135 grams.
It offers PCN options such as alternate line service, SMS (short messaging service) and caller identification, and is also GSM (global system for mobile communications) compatible.
Nokia has unleashed a series of handsets for PCN, including models tailored specifically for the Asian market. Its Nokia 8148 sports a curved sliding cover that extends to fit the contour of your face and closes to a compact 14 cm.
The 8148 features 16 different ringing tones and supports numerous PCN features, including call transfer and conference calling.
Charging your phone by the pool or over lunch is now possible with the Nokia 1610. The battery is equipped with solar panels that, when placed in direct sunlight, maintain the charge.
The made-for-Asia Nokia 8110-plus incorporates the qualities of its predecessor, the 8110, but includes an SMS that supports simplified and traditional Chinese and Thai characters.
Nokia also previewed its 3810 model, to be released in July, which features an Asian language user interface and an SMS which supports simple and traditional Chinese, Thai, Bahasa Indonesian, Bahasa Malaysian and English.
A phone that listens for its master's voice was unveiled by Philips. Its voice dial TCD 315 Spark will ring any of 10 programmed numbers upon mention of a name. The model is available only for GSM at the moment.
