Siemens CT66 Phone (Cingular)

With a built-in camera and support for advanced messaging and wireless Internet features, the CT66 is a great little companion. Plus, a vibrant color screen and infrared data transfer capability make this phone more than just another entry-level phone.

Design
The CT66's sleek candybar form factor sports a large, 130 x 130, 65,000-color display. An internal antenna means there's nothing to break off or snag on your pants pocket. Most of the phone's features and on-screen menus are controlled by a five-way center button above the handset's dial pad. In addition to infrared connectivity, a USB-compatible data port is also provided. The phone's CIF-resolution (352 x 288) camera unit resides on the back of unit. Lastly, you can dress up the CT66 with changeable faceplates.

Calling Features
The phone's built-in address book, which supports up to three numbers per entry, can store up to 1000 contacts for quick and easy management of your friends, family and associates. Twenty-five polyphonic ringtones, plus a vibrating alert, are built in and more ringtones can be downloaded from Cingular's MEdia service. Picture ID and ringer ID allow you to set graphics and ringtones for specific groups of callers. There's also a built-in speakerphone so you can have handsfree conversations.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
Support for basic text messaging and robust picture messaging are built into the CT66. Also, AOL Instant Messenger ships with the phone, so you can chat with your friends anywhere. There's also a built-in web browser for Cingular MEdia downloads and mobile web browsing. Cingular's MEdia service lets you receive and send emails, read news headlines, get weather updates, download games and ringtones, and more. Traditional text messaging, as well as picture and sound messaging are also supported by the phone. T9 text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile email and text messaging users.

The CT66 supports the SyncML standard, meaning your data and contacts can be easily synchronized with your PC via infrared or USB. Other handy tools that ship with the CT66 include an alarm, a calculator, a calendar, and a to-do list. There's also a voice memo application for recording quick notes and reminders.

Imaging and Entertainment
Use the CT66's CIF camera to send photos to your friends while you're on the go. You can also customize the phone's wallpapers and screensavers to suit your tastes. Three games ship with the CT66, and more are available via the Cingular MEdia service.

Vital Statistics
The Siemens CT66 weighs 3.00 ounces and measures 4.10 x 1.80 x .70 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 4.5 hours of digital talk time, and up to 220 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the 800/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS frequencies. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.

What's in the Box
CT66 handset, lithium-ion battery, AC charger, user's manual.

1 Unnecessarily complex!
I was really excited about getting this phone especially since I'm not happy using a flip phone. Sadly, trying to figure out this phone is almost impossible. Common things like Address Book seem to be buried under several layers of menu. It's weirdly complex to try and figure out how to work it. In addition, it shut itself off in the middle of calls. I'm returning mine.

2 A- performance but complicated
I have use so many cel phone brands. LG is the best so far. This siemens phone has all features you can imagine. However, the built-in speaker isn't lond enough. There are also some operating difficulties as well. I have to carry the manual around in the first week. Usually, with other brands, you can just play with the phone and go from there. For example, when using speed dial, firstly you have to push 5 and hold, the speed dial list shows up, then push the speed dial number you assigned. Unfortunately, the manual which comes in its box isn't the most recently released. [...] It's just complicated to look in Siemens website and find the CT66 manual because it's already discontinued. enjoy...