Mobile Software

Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about iPhone clones / Chinese knock offs that support Java. In terms of iClones, the best selling models are the CECT i9 and the SciPhone i68. However, both of these are flat, touch screen models. Some folks really like phones (like the Blackberry productivity models) that allow you to text and enter information with a full keyboard.

For those consumers, the T68 or HiTune can fit this bill. This phone is sometimes called a Chinese knock off of a blackberry as it’s a true smart phone that allows you to compose, read, and edit documents away from your home and office.

The T68 is also one of the few clones that contains windows mobile, WiFi, and Java 2.0. This allows you to download and run thousands of third party software applications and gaming options. (Gaming can get you in big trouble though if you mainly want this phone for productivity. You can download NES Nintendo and Windows PPC games on this phone. This can be a big distraction if you are not disciplined.)

To even out productivity with gaming, the HiTune runs and comes with Word, MSN, Excel, and PowerPoint. Outlook express and GPS are also included.

You transfer data from the phone to your computer via ActiveSync and USB cable. This makes working away from your computer and on the phone extremely easy. The e book reader allows you to read and edit PDF documents as well.

The bonus gaming and productivity features do not cut into your typical standard clone features, like: web browsing; messaging; texting; MP3 / MP4; a 2.0 mega pixel built in camera; and Bluetooth.

The Chinese T68 mobile phone has a sleek, streamlined appearance with full keyboard and scroll bar which should appeal to a wide variety of consumers. On first glance, it reminds me a blackberry curve.

This true smart phone is an interesting mix of the Chinese clone “everything in one phone” business model combined with the productivity and messaging functioning of the Blackberry. It is quick and high performing. If you like the thought of an unlocked clone, but would prefer a model not based on the flat, touch screen on the iPhone and want more productivity options like windows mobile, GPS, and Java, the HiTune may be worth a look.

Usually priced somewhere around $150-$175, there’s a lot to like about this fully loaded PDA. Although most people think of flat, touch screens when they think of clones, there are many additional options that include full keyboards and other high end options. The T68 is among the nicest examples of this.

By: Rae Edwards