Samsung S5550 Shark 2 review
Network and connections
This S5550 Shark 2 has many features in common with its sibling S5350 Shark, from which it mainly differs in the exterior design. Network operation is GSM Quadband, on frequencies of 850, 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz. This allows optimal coverage in any condition, also thanks to UMTS support. To browse the Internet, just use the dedicated HTML browser. The internal modem with HSDPA technology will handle data traffic, guaranteeing a high speed as if it were your home ADSL. Also present is the handy Bluetooth for exchanging files with other devices.
Design and features
As already mentioned, the difference between the two models lies in the body. The S5550 Shark 2 is in fact a Slider Phone, with a vertical sliding opening. The dimensions are 14.8 mm in thickness and 99 grams in weight. The front houses the screen, a 2.2-inch TFT capable of displaying up to 256,000 colors. Just below it stands out the clickable directional pad with the function keys. The keyboard, on the other hand, is found inside, with keys joined on a curved-line surface, comfortable to use without any problems.
Main features
The proprietary platform offers, right from the basic configuration, complete and practical functions. Phonebook, organizer, calculator, stopwatch and alarm clock are just a few. Java support also allows the installation of additional compatible software, so as to best personalize the device according to one's needs. Support for easy writing is really handy for quickly composing texts, for SMS, multimedia messages and E-mail. It is also possible to correctly view Office and PDF files with the Document Viewer. Also interesting is the Instant Messaging program, to stay always in touch with friends on the network. Or again the management of profiles for Social Networks such as Facebook. For phone functions there is speakerphone, voice recorder and support for video calling.
Entertainment and multimedia
The equipment dedicated to entertainment on this S5550 is slightly better compared to its relative. It in fact integrates a 5 megapixel digital camera, capable of taking excellent quality photographs but also recording short videos. The dedicated functions range from Zoom, to LED Flash up to Smile and Face Detection. The available memory is 110 MB, expandable up to 16 GB via microSD cards. In this way you can always have your favorite music and videos with you, to be played with the dedicated multimedia player. The audio quality is excellent, thanks to the Digital Natural Sound Engine DNSe system. Or again the AM/FM antenna for radio broadcasts, with RDS function. Lastly, the battery life is good, lasting up to 412 hours in Stand-by.