Samsung A837 Rugby review
Network and connections
Samsung is bringing to the 2008 market, in collaboration with AT&T, a rugged device suited to an audience looking for resistance and reliability in a portable device. Starting with the technical features, we can say that this Samsung A837 Rugby is a GSM Quadband, capable of guaranteeing truly optimal signal coverage. UMTS support amplifies the network potential. To browse the Web you can count on the fast integrated HSDPA modem, which allows the HTML browser to correctly display every Internet page. There's also Bluetooth, handy for exchanging files with other devices, as well as the USB 2.0 data cable.
Design and features
The design immediately hints at the resistance capabilities of the Samsung Rugby. It is in fact capable of withstanding violent shocks and extreme temperatures, thanks to the insulating materials used in its construction. The fairly compact dimensions are the right compromise for the sturdiness it guarantees: 23 mm thick for a weight of 132 grams with a clamshell body. The front part is occupied by an auxiliary monochrome 96x96 pixel CSTN screen. Inside, on the other hand, is the main display, a TFT at 176x220 pixels capable of displaying up to 262,000 colors. Just below is the alphanumeric keypad, as well as a few function keys for managing the device.
Main features
The Samsung A837 Rugby is equipped with a proprietary platform, complete and functional from every point of view. With Java support, it is possible to install additional compatible software, to better customize your device. Support for predictive text input allows you to quickly compose SMS and multimedia messages, as well as E-mails complete with attachments in Office and PDF format. As for the telephone side, there's a built-in speakerphone, voice recorder, conference call support, and voice calling in videoconference.
Entertainment and multimedia
In addition to being a perfect work tool, the Rugby also shows good qualities for leisure use. Here's the 1.3 megapixel digital camera, sufficient for taking acceptable quality photographs when needed. You can also record videos, to be saved directly to the 20 MB internal memory, also expandable with microSD cards. You can therefore carry plenty of audio and video files with you, to be played back with the dedicated multimedia player. During breaks you can use the fun pre-installed games. Battery life is a bit limited, guaranteeing operation of only up to 250 hours in Stand-by.