Review: T-Mobile MDA Vario II HSDPA mobile phone

Mobile phones and fast data speeds don't really go hand in hand. That's all set to change with the Vario II from T-Mobile.

It's not just a top of the range handset, it also supports HSDPA (high-speed downlink packet access) – upping the potential speed to a broadband-like 1.8Mbits/sec.

HSDPA isn't new – laptop cards supporting fast data connections have been around since the start of the summer (check out our reviews of the Dell Latitude D420 and Acer Aspire 5652). T-Mobile , however, claims this is the first handset to support the service.

Running it through an online speed test at Bandwidth Place resulted in a 1.1mbps connection – not quite the promised max, but still faster than entry level broadband. It was more than adequate for streaming full-screen movie trailers.

The phones itself runs Microsoft's Windows Mobile 5 OS, providing full PDA functionality as well.

The most distinctive aspect of the design is the full Qwerty keyboard, hidden underneath the display – accessible by sliding the screen across. When open, the screen automatically switches from portrait to landscape mode. The keyboard, although small, is actually very usable – definitely quicker than typing out words using predictive text.

The design is very similar to the original Vario. There's a large 2.9in screen dominating the front of the unit and an arrangement of buttons at the bottom to provide quick access to commonly used functions like making calls and navigation.

It also supports Wifi, so if you're in range of a public hotspot you can jump on a fast internet connection without cutting into your monthly mobile bandwidth allowance.

Battery life is a claimed eight days' standby, four-and-a-half hours' talktime. With intensive use, though, we found this dropped to a couple of days.

As well as high speed data, it's packed with all the standard features you'd expect from a high-end handset. The rear-mounted camera can take pics up to 2megapixels, although it's a bit slow to respond, making spur-of-the-moment snaps difficult.

If you want a feature-packed model, with fast internet on tap, then the Vario II is the model to go for.

Also consider:
Virgin Mobile Lobster 700TV phone
Another attempt at getting people to watch TV on their mobile phone

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