BenQ Siemens AL26 Hello Kitty review
Network and connections
BenQ Siemens AL26 is a "Tri-band" cell phone, able to operate on GSM frequencies of 900, 1800 and 1900 Mhz and equipped with GPRS type data connection. This model is not equipped with Bluetooth wireless technology nor infrared (IrDa). It is instead possible to connect to a computer through the use of the dedicated USB cable. BenQ Siemens AL26 features a fairly large active matrix (TFT) display, with a size of 130x130 pixels and 65536 colors.
Design and features
BenQ Siemens AL26 is a well-finished model, with a "slide up" type opening. It is a compact and lightweight device, whose weight is about 80 grams, including the included battery. The antenna is internal to the body of the cell phone and therefore does not increase its overall dimensions. It is available in pink color with "Hello Kitty" branded decorations. By pressing a side button, a numeric keypad is revealed, with medium-small sized keys; the shape is slightly curved and rounded at the bottom.
Main features
With BenQ Siemens AL26 you can make "multi-conference" calls with multiple users. The cell phone is also equipped with an integrated speakerphone that can be used during conversations. Unfortunately it is not possible to record short voice memos, nor make calls through voice command. As for messaging, this model supports many of the main formats: Sms, Ems, Mms, while it does not allow email management. The T9 predictive text input system makes writing messages easier and speeds up the use of the main functions. The WAP connection (v. 1.2.1), moreover, allows the internal software to access internet resources and at the same time to download and save content (for example wallpapers, ringtones, screensavers etc.) in the internal memory, which is only 1.5 MB and cannot be expanded through additional cards. The phone is also equipped with an alarm clock function and an organizer with internal agenda.
Entertainment and multimedia
BenQ Siemens AL26 offers various preinstalled ringtones, both monophonic and polyphonic, 32-voice, with the possibility of associating each one to the different contacts present in the phonebook. Many contents are dedicated to "Hello Kitty". Unfortunately the use of melodies in MP3 format is not supported. As for functions dedicated to free time, instead, this model is not equipped with an AM/FM radio, while support for Java technology (J2ME) allows you to install new games, in addition to the preinstalled ones, also by downloading them from the network. The cell phone finally has calculator, countdown timer and stopwatch functions. AL26 is unfortunately not equipped with any type of digital camera.