Messaging, Internet & Connectivity
SMS and MMS messaging is supported on the N93, as are video calls if you're on a European 3G network. As mentioned, the N93's imaging software features excellent support for editing and compressing photos and videos for inclusion in messaging. This makes it easy to capture high-resolution images for printing and then export smaller versions of those same images for easier sharing via MMS or Email.
The Series 60 Email client worked quite well with various of my POP3 and IMAP accounts. Email can be sent and received via EDGE/GPRS or WiFi networks, and the Settings Wizard software made configuring email accounts very easy.
Typing messages is accomplished using a standard 12-button dialing keypad and predictive text software. Nokia's predictive text system isn't my favorite, but it's not bad. A dedicated Input Mode key and well-designed contextual process helped the messaging process along. Instant Messaging is also supported.
European N93 users can take advantage of support for 3G CDMA data networks. Here in the states we'll have to make do with support for GRPS and EDGE connectivity, or hop on to an open WLAN network via the handset's integrated support for 802.11b/g WiFi. Connection manager software makes it easy to define and select multiple Net access points, and also to sniff out available WiFi networks.
Once connected to the Net, Nokia's stellar browser provides an excellent mobile Web experience. The browser works especially well in widescreen mode, though navigation can be a bit tricky since the D-Pad becomes a bit cramped when the screen is twisted into a landscape orientation. Most Web pages I visited rendered true to form on the N93, and the browser's excellent management of browsing history and auto-bookmarks made it easy to revisit pages (something I did a few times when looking for restaurants and other points of interest on vacation).
And to say it again, the N93's combination of imagining and Net connectivity makes it an ideal traveling companion. Sending 2 megabyte video files over an EDGE connection isn't ideal, but it works (hit send, stick the phone on the car seat, and drive to the next beach!). Find an open WiFi network, however, and the idea of photo and video blogging really comes to life with this device. There's no need to transfer files from camera to PC and then upload them to the Web as with a regular digital camera - the N93 can do it all. And while many other camera phones can perform the same feat, few can do it with the N93's combination of image quality and ease of use.
Nokia packed a plethora of connectivity options into the N93 to let you get the most out of those beautiful images you're bound to capture with it. USB 2.0 supports speedy file transfers and PC synching with the included data cable. Bluetooth 2.0 supports file transfers, synching, and mono audio devices. PictBridge allows for direct USB printing (I tried it with a Polaroid photo printer and it was a snap).
The N93 also features two unique connectivity options tailored to its multimedia functions. An included TV Out cable connects the handset's PopPort to a TV, monitor, or video recorder with standard RCA inputs (Video/Left/Right) for big screen viewing of movie clips including stereo audio. This was perfect for my (really exciting) vacation home movies. UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) allows for connectivity between the handset and compatible consumer electronics devices - specifically for sharing of content between your N93 and computer and home theater equipment. I did not test the UPnP functionality.
Next: Conclusion »
4.5
