3GSM 2006
Between the form factor and the keypad, it's easy to mistake the HTC Monet for a Series 60 phone. It looks like the love child of the Nokia 6600 and 7610. And while the Monet is certainly as fat as the 6600, the keypad is much more usable than the one from the 7610 even though it looks similar. In fact the Monet's keypad is probably the best HTC has to offer for Windows Mobile candybars. The keys, including the navigation keys, are large and well laid out.
The Monet uses yet another mobile TV protocol to stream live feeds of UK and premium networks. It is based on an extension of DAB, the digital radio standard used in Europe and elsewhere. DAB-IP acts just like regular digital TV in the UK, including interactivity. HTC and BT have integrated "red button" interactive services that allow you to interact or download content when the red button icon is displayed during broadcasts. Because it receives DAB transmissions, the Monet can also be used to listen to the 50+ digital radio channels available as well.
Other than the addition of mobile TV, the Monet is exactly like every other Windows Mobile 5 Smartphone. In fact it really is just an HTC Faraday with the DAB-IP receiver and TV button tacked on to one side. It is a bit unfortunate the hardware was not better integrated into the industrial design of the phone. However for a bump sticking out of the side of a phone, it is well designed and does not interfere with normal phone operations.
Review: Nokia 6126
Helio Hero Video Tour
CTIA 2006
CES 2006
Samsung Refreshes Galaxy S Series with S Pen, New Cameras
Pantech Hero / PN-8300
Samsung SGH-i320
Nokia 6126 / 6131 / 6133
