Messaging, Internet & Connectivity
Like other Series 60 devices, the N91 has support for SMS, MMS, and IM messaging. Messaging is available through cellular service as well as WiFi WLAN networks. Use of the pre-installed IM client requires a bit more configuration than what's necessary on your standard T-Mobile or Cingular branded phone, but the third-party Agile Messenger client for S60 provides "off the shelf" support for AOL, Yahoo!, MSN, and ICQ instant messaging.
Composing SMS and MMS messages on the N91 was straightforward, but the somewhat small buttons on the handset's keypad could make for some slippery typing. Nokia's predictive text input system worked well and provides a handy display of how many characters as you're composing a message.
The included Email client supports multiple POP3 and IMAP accounts, though it does not support BlackBerry Connect push email. The messaging application will, however, continuously check for and download new email headers if you leave it running in the background. Several S60-compatible third party email solutions are available for download and installation.
While the N91 is designated as a music-centric device, its 802.11b/g WiFi connectivity and support for EDGE cellular data transfer gives it the speed to handle Internet-related tasks. The Series 60 Web browser is based on Apple's Safari browser, and while it doesn't render as sharply here as on the higher-resolution displays on other Nokia handsets, it's still a joy to use.
The browser displayed most Web pages with ease, handling JavaScript as well as many (but not all) Flash animations. Both a single-column mode in the standard browser and a WAP-only Web browser offer faster, scaled-down browsing options.
A tri-band GSM handset, the N91 supports the GSM 900/1800/1900 bands as well as GPRS and EDGE data transfer. The N91 also features support for UMTS. The phone is suitable for use abroad on T-Mobile and other GSM networks, and comes with a European voltage charger that requires an adapter for use in American households.
The N91 also features integrated WLAN connectivity with support for 802.11b/g networks including WEP encryption and WPA. Connecting to any available network was easy via the Connections Manager application, and WiFi reception was quite good for a mobile device. Note that extended use of the WiFi antenna does put quite a strain on the battery.
Bluetooth includes support for mono audio devices as well as file transfer and syncing. I had no trouble pairing the N91 with a mono headset or my computer. The phone features dedicated AC adapter and USB ports - a welcome change from Nokia's usual PopPort solution.
The phone has 4GB of onboard storage by way of a 3,600 rpm hard drive. The N91 Music Edition handset features an 8GB hard drive.
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