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Review: Samsung Instinct S30

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The S30 makes some noteworthy improvements to the original Instinct. The hardware is better all around. It feels like a more fully-realized device. The vast improvements in signal strength and responsiveness of the resistive touch display are the two things that make us happiest.

Other new additions are the ability to send IMs, set an EQ for your music and better access to third-party apps.

These don't make up for the aspects of the S30 that haven't changed at all. Too much of the software (including the bad parts) is carried over almost exactly as-is. I was hoping for better camera software, and there was none to be found. Adding a flash or autofocus to the S30 would have been great, but Samsung skipped it.

What's worst is the poor call quality I experienced. Quite honestly, it had the poorest call performance of any phone I've tested in recent memory.

But, if you're a Samsung fan, and a Sprint lover, the Instinct is a solid, budget, alternative to some of the higher-end touch phones that have flooded the market in the last 15 months.

Bottom line, if you want an inexpensive touch phone that is easy to use, the S30 may be the phone for you.

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Samsung Instinct S30

3.2" display 240 x 432 pixels
1,000 mAh battery
Memory Card Slot, Headphone Jack (3.5mm)

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