T-Mobile Shadow 2 review

From the collaboration between T-Mobile and HTC comes the new Shadow 2. It offers quality in its technical solutions and complete functionality. The network receiver is a GSM Quadband on frequencies of 850, 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz. However, it lacks UMTS support for 3G networks. The internal modem allows Web browsing in GPRS, through the dedicated HTML browser for viewing pages. It is also possible to take advantage of networks distributed through the integrated Wi-Fi antenna. Convenient Bluetooth is also present, as is the USB data cable output.

Design and features
At first glance, the essential and clean lines of this Shadow 2 stand out. The edges are rounded to provide greater ergonomics in the grip. The body is not a single block, but opens with a vertical Slider movement. This allows the QWERTY alphanumeric keyboard to remain hidden when not needed. On the front remains the screen, a 2.6 inch TFT capable of displaying up to 65,000 colors. The dimensions are in line with the main competitors on the market: 15.2 mm thick for 150.3 grams of weight.

Main features
The platform with which this device is equipped is Windows Mobile 6.1 Standard. Its ease of use and configuration is now widely known. Also important is compatibility with additional software, thanks to Java support. In short, the Shadow 2 has all the tools needed to be properly customized, according to the needs of any user. The standard applications are nevertheless complete, with address book, organizer, alarm clock, calculator and stopwatch. It is possible to use tools for Instant Messaging, as well as quickly compose SMS, MMS and E-mail with attachments in Office and PDF formats. As for the telephone aspect, it is possible to use the speakerphone and the voice recorder.

Entertainment and multimedia
Complete offering also for the features dedicated to leisure. The integrated 2 megapixel camera allows you to take photographs when needed, complete with Flash and Zoom, as well as autofocus and dedicated functions. It is also possible to record short videos, to be saved later on expandable memory via microSD cards. The Windows Media Player allows you to play audio and video files in various formats. Battery life is a bit scarce, however, with only 168 hours of operation in Stand-by.