Motorola Rapture-VU30
Overview
A phone that strikes by its design and wide array of features.
Design
The design is the clamshell usually associated with Motorola. Smooth and rounded, jewel-toned glossy, the Rapture-VU30 features a vanishing external display that is touch sensitive and allows easy access to music and the camera without having to flip the phone open.
Features
Usage/Standby Time: (up to approx.) 270 minutes/ 470 hours
Dimensions: 1.9 x 3.9 x .67 inches
Size: 96 g
Display: 2.2” 240x320 262k TFT, 1.6” 120x160 CLI
Band: CDMA 800/1900, CDMA EVDO Release 0
Camera: 2.0 megapixel with enhanced imaging capabilities, Digital zoom, QVGA (320x240) video capture
Audio: MP3, AAC, AAC+, WMA
Memory: Supports up to 8GB of microSD optional removable memory
Bluetooth: Stereo Bluetooth® wireless technology
Connectivity: CDMA2000 1xRTT/1xEVDO rev.0
USB: microUSB, USB 2.0
Additional features: Verizon-linked apps, including:
– V CAST Music with Rhapsody®
– Built-in MP3 player
– VZ NavigatorSM Capable
– Verizon text, MMS and email services
Overall
The Rapture-VU30 is hailed as a good phone that combines lots of features with very good reception, which isn't what can be said of many phones.
The front face of the phone, a touch sensitive display, is innovative and impresses with its large and clear, color display. However the surface is reflective and shows smudges and fingerprints easily.
The inside of the flip phone sports a good positioning of the keys. Keys are delineated by color grouping and are well spaced. It is very difficult to hit multiple keys at the same time, thus improving the typing experience. Small silver bumps on the keys allow for a tactile experience. This layout is different from other Motorola models though, and may prove to be a love/hate factor with users.
Available through Verizon, this 3G phone allows access to almost all of the network's extra features. V CAST Music with Rhapsody allows access to more than 5 million songs, and users can buy tracks and download the master copy to a PC. It is easy to sync favourite tracks, playlists and albums with the PC using a USB cable (optional, sold separately).
Music can be accessed through compatible Bluetooth-enabled stereo headsets or a 2.5mm headset jack. The placement of the headset jack at the bottom of the phone may hinder the experience, for example if the phone is in the pocket.
The placement of the camera on the rear also does not allow for shooting self-portraits.
Availability of access to the VZ Navigator for GPS allows for audible pinpointing of directions, very helpful when on the move.
Pros
- Touch sensitive external display, allows for easy control of music and pictures
- Light weight (when the average phone weighs over 100g)
- Includes 3G
- Good reception and call quality
Cons
- Camera lacks flash, which is somewhat expected for a 2 MP camera
- Uneven multimedia performance
- The body is completely made of plastic
Special mention
The clamshell design with its touch sensitive front face.
Conclusion
On the whole, the Rapture-VU30 is a very good compromise for a phone of its category. Boasting good performance in almost all areas, the inside layout of the phone is what may work against it - users developing a hate-it-or-love-it reaction to the keypad.
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