Samsung Omnia i910 Phone, Silver (Verizon Wireless)

Almost Perfect December 7, 2008

Reviewer:  Craig Whisenhunt 

Pros: The haptic feedback is very responsive, the business card reader works fantastic (take a picture of a business card and it stores it as a new contact), the etiquette mode (face down the phone doesn't ring) is really nice too. Easy sync with e-mail.

Cons: I really didn't like the widget interface, but thankfully it is easy to change and aftermarket options like SPB are great alternatives. It is pretty crucial to remap the task switcher to a key so you can kill programs, otherwise windows slows down.


Summary: I have been a long time Treo user, and my last one ran windows mobile instead of the palm system. Windows mobile is really very functional but it tends to leave programs running in the background regardless of what phone you use. Dell addressed this in their PDAs with a task switcher, and I'm very glad to see a similar program employed on the Omnia. Remapping the keys on the side is very simple and makes pulling up the task switcher very easy and keeps windows running smoothly.

Before I go into details on some of the various qualities of this phone I want to emphasize a couple of things. First, while this phone is advertised as having GPS abilities, these are strictly tied to Verizon's Navigator Service, if you're looking to replace your stand alone GPS with a phone and don't want to pay $9.95 a month this phone currently locks you from using any other navigation service. Accordingly the "GeoTagging" feature for photos that is available on the unlocked version of this phone isn't currently available on the Verizon version. I say right now because it is always possible that Verizon will release a firmware update down the road that allows some of these features, but you should know before you buy just what you're getting. That said, still a pretty awesome phone!

The size and weight of the phone is great, it isn't heavy, doesn't weigh down your pockets, but it has some heft to it so you don't feel like you're playing with a toy or something easily broken (that said, I don't think this phone would do well being dropped much). It fits comfortably in my pocket, no bulge. There is an available holster case for it, but personally I've never liked having my phone on my waist.

Typing --
This was where I really expected the most trouble with the phone. I'm used to real keys and so the touch screen keyboard worried me. It's not as effective or quick as my Treo, but I think speed will improve with some practice. That said, typing in portrait mode is very difficult and it is almost a requirement to turn the phone to landscape to type any message. You can change the type method from keyboard to a T9 style number pad which does help vertical typing considerably.

Call Quality --
After all, this is a phone. Calls came through very clearly, and the people on the other end had no trouble hearing me. The speaker phone is loud enough to be heard over ambient noise and does a good job of picking up voice too. The listener on the other end did say they could hear a lot of background noise when on speaker phone so it might be better used in an office setting or someplace where you can limit the amount of noise around you. Still, for as often as anyone uses speakerphone it is more than adequate.

The interface --
I have to give credit to Samsung for their widget interface. I personally don't like it, but I am a creature of habit and know where stuff is on my old phone and just wanted to recreate that. My girlfriend loved the widgets, they were simple enough to her to be able to be comfortable navigating the phone in about half an hour. They might not be the first choice for more serious users, but they do a good job making windows mobile a bit more finger friendly.

Battery Life --
Well this depends... I've enjoyed playing with my phone pretty much nonstop since I got it, and that screen does seem to kill the battery pretty quick. I haven't made it all the way through the day without needing to plug it in, but I've found that if I plug it into my computer while at my desk, or into my car while I'm driving it will do very well staying fully charged. Wouldn't wander off without a power source for more than a day though.

The stylus--
I seriously doubt anyone will use this thing, it might have been a nice addition had they been able to build it into the body of the phone instead but putting it on a little leash just makes it impractical.

The Camera--
I haven't fully explored all of the built in options as far as editing goes, but so far it seems pretty good. The flash isn't a flash in the traditional sense you might be used to. It is a very bright LED that does a good job for subjects that aren't more than maybe 4 or 5 feet away, but you're not going to light up a room with it or anything, keep your expectation reasonable and you'll be pleasantly surprised with it's effectiveness. (The flash also doubles as a flashlight which is an interesting feature). The downside to the LED flash is that I'm having trouble with Red Eye, but that is so easy to edit these days that it's hardly worth mentioning.

All in all... If you're looking for a multimedia phone with smart phone abilities this is a great phone. If you're looking primarily for a phone to handle e-mails then you might find the touch keyboard on this a little aggravating. If you're a seasoned windows mobile user the phone is exactly what you're used to but better, if you're a cross over from Blackberry, or this is your first foray into the smart phone world the widget interface is simple enough you should be comfortable within half an hour or so. The phone has put an emphasis on media playback, and if you're looking for a phone that can handle e-mail but really serves as an mp3 player, decent camera, web-browsing, and occasional video watching, this is about as good as they come.

I would absolutely recommend this phone to anyone looking for a good all in one sort of phone, with the caveat that long e-mails aren't as easy as they might be on other devices. It's still windows, it still slows down some, and it is almost impossible to respond to messages one handed (which I suppose you shouldn't be doing anyway) and I kind of wish they had built in a stylus (could have even made it the FM's ant. since to use that feature you have to plug something else in). All those things in mind I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Hope my review helps. Happy Holidays!

Surprisingly pleased with this WinMo device January 25, 2009

Reviewer:  Los Dog  (Los Angeles, CA) -

I am only reviewing Verizon's variant of the Samsung Omnia (i910) because the cost of the data plan is a separate issue from the build quality, usability, and performance of their device offering. If anything, EVDO-Rev A connectivity has allowed me to be more productive and provides hours of entertainment where wifi is not available.

Pros:
-Typical WinMo software (MS Mobile Office Suite, Remote Desktop, Outlook, ability to "cut and paste")
-ActiveSync (Synchronizes Outlook e-mail, calendar, contacts, etc.)
-Highly customizable interface (SPB, S2U2, Winterface, etc.)
-Haptic-feedback keyboard (landscape and portrait)
-5 megapixel camera w/ very good features & settings (timer, continuous, mosaic, smile detect, panoramic, etc.)
-Video capture
-Plays multiple commonly used video formats (including DivX)
-Call Quality (excellent speakerphone)
-Wifi
-EVDO Rev A
-Useful bundled software (Smart Reader, RSS Reader, FM Radio, Podcast, Video Editor, Smart Converter, Opera...)
-8gb onboard storage w/ MicroSDHC expansion slot
-Removable battery
-Solid Feel and Build Quality
-Healthy Dev community for WinMo Apps

Cons:
-WinMo (in general) and the TouchWiz interface are clunky (PointUI, Winterface, or SPB Shell are a must)
-Battery life out of the box (Modifying power settings with a 3rd party app has drastically changed this)
-Must remove the back plate and battery to install and remove the micro sd card
-Awkward screen resolution (240x400 pixels)
-CDMA (Unable to use this phone in Europe and most of Asia)
-GPS is only usable with Verizon's proprietary software (This will either change when the hack is ready or Verizon gives in with a firmware update)
-Multiple vibrate profiles, but I can't feel the phone vibrate in my pocket with any of them
-Volume and availability of good apps are nowhere near what's out there for iPhone

HONEST review of the OMNIA...Yes, the PHONE...not VZW's Data policy February 3, 2009

Reviewer:  P. Moody "Tech Nut"  (CT) -

Wow...I'm appalled at the child-like behaviour being thrown around here. If you don't like the policy, don't get a phone that is under said policy.

As for the Phone itself, it is awesome. Not quite so out of the box, but with a few relatively easy to find apps, it becomes a powerhouse real quick. Details below.

Phone:
Signal...good, not great
Call Quality...excellent

Interface:
TouchWiz is take or leave. I recommend a replacement, such as SPB Shell or Manila 2D
Screen is responsive, sometimes with a little lag
Screen resolution and color depth could be more, but it's still nothing to complain about
Optical mouse input makes the optional (And annoying) dangling stylus an option, instead of a necessity. Works great.

Browsers:
Opera is GREAT
IE is horrible
Testing out Bolt and it looks to be a fast, smooth setup, so far I am impressed with this soon to be released browser.

Camera and Media
5.0 MP and it works well. Better than the Dare, which I was also impressed with
Touch Player works pretty well. Indexes all media for fast viewing

Overall, I would have to say I am very impressed with the phone, and look forward to what else the community of smartphone gurus and users come up with next.

As for the whiners...yes, it requires a data plan. Yes it is more expensive. But I hope if you want to send a message to VZW, and AT&T (Who has the same policy on their favorite kid, the iPhone), you do so in a mature, consumer-like manner and petition either the regulators and/or the companies to change their policies. If you aren't going to do more than whine and complain, just go away. If you are going to DO SOMETHING...go right ahead. But Samsung developed a great phone, and deserves respect for it, not getting bashed for who sells it.

Traded in my BB Storm January 16, 2009

Reviewer:  Heath Pyle  (Gilbert, AZ United States) -

I purchased the Blackberry storm -had it for two weeks. Just traded it in for Omnia! I love this phone. Keyboard much easier to use! ActiveSync blows blackberry away! Push email works better!

Lots of features February 23, 2009

Reviewer:  Chocolove 

Thanks fellow Omnia users for taking the other reviewers to task for trashing Verizon instead of commenting on the phone itself. I just got the Omnia yesterday and am still figuring everything out. What I am noticing is that it has probably more features than I'll likely use. However, it's better to have too much than not enough. For me:

The Pros:
Love the touch screen...no need for silly stylus which doesn't attach anyway. Tried the FM radio using adapter and my iPod phones and the reception was unbelievably good. Web-browser, good. Great camera and video! Has full suite of Microsoft office including Word, Powerpoint, Excell. Active sync allows you to sync up data from your phone to computer and vice versa. I'm addicted to "Bubbles", what can I say?

The Cons:
For me the battery just doesn't last. Perhaps it's because of the features. Also, I'm still working out the phone aspect. It's a bit more complicated than it needs to be. For example, I call my office to check for messages. I have to punch in a code to retrieve them, but to access a phone pad requires "unlocking" that feature while making the call. Retrieving messages left on the phone is a bit roundabout. Downloading VZ Apps is laborious since you keep having to go back and update content. What's up with that? It also doesn't have enough games you can download directly. I'm a Yatzee Queen and I can't get the app. directly. I guess I'll have to go to the website to download it.

Anyway, overall a good phone for the money. I got it for $100 before add-ons and the $70 rebate, so my final cost with 2 year contract will be $80. No bad for a phone with all this. And yes I have the upgrade data package which is required. So what.

Good Phone - Not so great WinMo Interface February 16, 2009

Reviewer:  Ron Lunsford  (Everett, WA) -

Sadly, I was really hoping for a monster WinMo phone when I held the Omnia. What I did find, what a pleasant handset, but somehow a letdown compared to the performance of my Storm.

PROS:

The Omnia's build is 100% solid. Great feel in the hand, wonderful touch response and good performance.

The video/camera quality is nice and has some great adjustability. Saturation, contrast and sharpness controls are all there to dial in your images.

The email interface and messaging system is pretty easy to use once you understand Mobile Outlook.

Mobile Office - the total best way to take your work with you on the road. Email and share your docs from anywhere.

TV-Out with optional cables (OEM cables run about $10) allows you to display your Omnia photos or documents on any RCA TV connection.


CONS:

The battery life when using Wireless Sync (the $44.99 data plan) is about 3-4 hours on a full charge. Pretty underpowered for such a big screen phone.

The screen is very vibrant, but very low resolution compared to other $550 handsets on the market today.

Yes, it is WinMo so all you 'Dare/Voyager' users that are stepping in to smartphones looking for the same interface - look elsewhere, cause this ain't the same.


Now as far as the 'required plans' go...

Not everyone remembers, but when the Iphone was released, people were running up bills with $1000's in charges on them from their data plans. When you use the Dare or Voyager, you are probably subscribing to Vcast which is $15 a month - if not, don't get a smartphone cause it's going to do way more than that.

Verizon used to offer only 1 data plan with their non-Blackberry devices and that plan was $44.99 a month. To combat this and the $1.99 per MB charge they used to run with SmartPhones (and non-Vcast subscribing dumbphone users) they created the $29.99 'device only' web and email.

It's sad that so many people think that this is charge is too high. For $80 a month you can really do everything from the palm of your hand - and that's what this phone is designed for - someone that needs to do everything from the palm of their had. The traveller, the salesperson, the doctor, lawyer or anyone like that.

The Omnia will allow you to send your Word, Excel or Powerpoint presentations in seconds to anyone in the world and will do it very effectively.

I guess my only serious complaint on the device is that the screen's resolution was too low compared to the Storm and the fact that the WinMo interface required a 3rd party program to 'look good and function'...

Very Nice Phone! February 27, 2009

Reviewer:  Concerned One "Thrashfan"  (Clarinda, IA) -

This is the first multifunction phone I have ever purchased, but hands down, there is no competition for it on the market in my eyes. The perks for me are the windows office mobile, 2 web browsers, on board 5mp camera for unexpected photo moments, 8gb on board memory with 16mb additional for tons of storage, video playback, and touch screen that is relatively responsive. The only major con for me is the voice dialing feature. I did not realize how often I use this with my older Motorola's, but this Samsung can not master my names. Barely an issue with other phones, this one has major issues separating 2 syllable names from each other. When I call my wife, anyone from a co-worker, my wife, to my wife's aunt are dialed insead of her. Also, the initial transfer of my phone book took many of my past names and made them last name first, first name last, completely messing up my speed dials and contact list, likely just an interface connection flaw at Verizon, not the phone's fault. Overall, this I see as an I-Phone Slayer. The other thing to boot, this is Verizon, not ATT (or Cingular), which I have had both, and Verizon clearly is superior in coverage in small town areas and customer service. If you have the Cash, get this phone.

Very Nice February 20, 2009

Reviewer:  Jeff  (San Jose, CA) -

I've had it for about a week now, and I love it. I tried the pre-loaded UI's for a day or so, but found them a bit clunky. I loaded SPB Mobile Shell, which is a lot more touch-friendly.

There are a few flaws with the phone. First, the stylus. It's leashed to the phone like some kind of charm. I ended up ditching it, but there are times when a stylus really helps. (It's Windows Mobile, after all, and those little radio buttons can be hard to get to with your thumb) The optical mouse is an acceptable solution, but a built in stylus would have been better.

The battery is sort of a mystery to me. The meter goes in 20% increments. The low battery warning goes off at 40%, which seems early to me. And it beeps at you all the way from 40% to 0 every 5 minutes. At 20% it shuts down WiFi which I didn't like. Would be nice if I could disable that. I was able to find a registry hack for the 40% warning and beeps, but it would've been nice to be able to configure this without messing with the registry. (easy to do, but still...)

Battery life has been great so far, though. Just as a test, when the 40% warning went off, I wanted to see how long it would last, so I started playing an mp4 movie. I ended up watching a 2 hour movie, and probably 30 minutes of a second movie before the thing finally died.

With normal use, the battery lasts quite a while. After a full day of normal use, the meter showed 60% when I finally plugged it in before bed. (45-60min of phone use, some web browsing, texting, email, etc...) I imagine it was closer to 40%, though, and the meter just hadn't dropped yet.

Other than the stylus and the strange battery meter, the phone has been a dream. I upgraded from a Treo 700wx, and I can't imagine ever going back.

Also, I see a lot of people complaining about Verizon's data plan. While I had the data plan on my old phone and was used to the added expense, I can't imagine using a Windows Mobile phone w/o unlimited data. You get a phone like this to sync with an Exchange server, or browse the web. It's a connectivity device. If you just want to talk on the phone and maybe send some text messages, a cheaper, less capable phone would be a better choice.

Good PDA for a phone February 20, 2009

Reviewer:  Sama's29  (McDonald, TN) -

I was looking for a replacement for my HP PDA since I upgraded my computer to Vista. This phone is great! Not only can does it work with my home computer and its software but I can check my email everywhere. Since I don't have Wi-Fi in many places around my area (mostly farm country) the mobile broadband comes in handy when I need it while at my job. As long as I keep an eye on how many programs I am running at once the Omnia does not slow down but I can see how some people's might slow if they opened too many applications at once and did not know how to close them. I am a techi so I don't have a problem with this.

In an upgrade I would like to see the Widgets have a bit more flexibility. It doesn't allow as many applications as I would normally use and can get kind of frustrating at times having to open up the main menu when I need to open up one that was too many for my Widget. Overall I don't think this feature is as poorly designed as others have stated on here.

As far as the "hidden" fees goes, I disagree with giving a poor review based on the service plan. This is a great phone for people like me who are on the go. If you don't like Verizon, buy the unlocked phone. I was told by 3 different sales people when I was asking questions and then buying my phone about the $30 a month package that was required for the phone by Verizon. Maybe some other people have had bad sales experiences.

Great phone! February 25, 2009

Reviewer:  R. Leonard  (Bloomington, IN USA) -

I just bought my Omnia this past weekend and it is such a fantastic phone! I've never owned a smart phone before the Omnia and I'm extremely impressed with the functionality the Omnia offers. It took me a day to get used to the touch screen and all of the features, but it is extremely easy to use now. The camera is very useful and takes excellent photos. The stylus attached to the phone is unnecessary because the interface enables the phone to be used simply by touching the screen. I would highly recommend this product to anyone who is interested in having a phone that works better than the iPhone on a network with far better service. Verizon has made a great decision in offering the Omnia. Hopefully, everyone will have as positive an experience with their Omnia as I have.