Originally Posted by JeffS
I have an iMate PDA2K and it is a good solid device. If you are looking for a fully converged (phone, PDA, WiFi, WWAN) then you should give it a serious look. Especially since you say you need a real PDA. In my opinion you would not need to carry a second device as a PDA.
What about the keyboard? I've read some reviews where people mentioned they didn't like the buttons. Also, how does the imate feel when you slide the keypad out? Does it feel cheap and plastic or sturdy?
I don't mind carrying two devices. In some ways I prefer it.
I agree with Scott's comments about the HP6500. It is a nice device but they went with a smaller and square screen , 240x240 I think. In my opinion they are going after theBalckberry market with this device. I had a 6315 and Scott is being kind.
The smaller screen isn't an issue with me. The only thing I'll be using the phone for is contacts, calendar and email/messaging.
I suggest you look at the following versions of the HTC Blue Angel iMate PDA 2K):
Verizon XV6600 (CDMA) - No WiFi but you get EVDO which is better unless you are in non-EVDO coverage areas a lot.
Cingular SX66(GSM/GPRS) - Basically the same as the iMate PDA2K. Keep in mind that EDGE and its better successor HSDAP is not supported on this version. Don't expect Cingular to offer an upgrade beyond buy a new device.
Sprint PPC 6600(CDMA) - Same as the Verizon version but I don't think they offer EVDO on this device.
I would need an unlocked GSM phone for intl travel so that eliminates all the CDMA carriers.
The one on the horizon I would also keep an eye on is the Samsung i730. I think it may be an HTC device as it looks suspiciously like the Blue Angel. Verizon says it will be available soon.
Wow. That i730 looks awesome, but I see no mention of GSM.
