
While Nokia may be far from being the most trusted smartphone name in the US, the Nokia E73 Mode on T-Mobile brings plenty of things that make it a compelling option for business and messaging-heavy users. Not only is it stylish and well-designed, it packs in an impressive range of features too at an affordable price.
Physically, it takes on a QWERTY candybar form factor in the same mold as the E72. This means it's especially sleek, making it as comfortable to hold in your hand as it is to slip in your pocket. Construction and design are really good, with both the look and feel of a high-end business smartphone.
The screen measures 2.4-inches with a 320 x 240 resolution. Display is clear and vibrant, with just enough sharpness to make it easy on the eyes, but does wash out considerably outdoors. The QWERTY keyboard has a comfortable size and curved shape, making it very easy to type up messages.
As a phone, the E73 Mode manages good quality, with a rich sound and barely any interference. Those on the other reported a little less fidelity, although the audio still came out rather well. Speakerphone performed similarly, sounding a bit hollow, but with plenty of volume. Battery life is rated at up to six hours of 3G talk time, which helps it run for a good two days (or more) of normal use.
The capabilities are heavily geared towards business users, with support for quad-band world roaming, VoIP calling and a VPN application. Messaging is especially robust, with support for Exchange and Lotus Notes, apart from the usual POP3, IMAP4 and SMTP. It even adds push delivery, an attachment viewer, a hefty amount of IM clients and social networking apps.
Supporting both 3G and WiFi, it allows for fast internet browsing in most situations. The MiniMap browser renders pages accurately, with a useful host of features, such as multiple windows, RSS and Flash support. It's also got aGPS, with free turn-by-turn navigation via Ovi Maps.
Like all Nokia smartphones, the media player is very good. Plus, the hardware handily runs all supported videos well, albeit the smaller screen might not be the most ideal for viewing. The 5.0 megapixel camera has decent options, but only manages average-quality shots.
Priced at $69.99 on contract with T-Mobile, the Nokia E73 Mode is one of the best phones you can nab at this price range. It's an excellent value.






























