Happy New Year!

As we enter 2010, let's see what types of new smartphones Verizon will release on its network. I'm particularly excited about the Android smartphones, but I think it will also be great to see the Apple iPhone and the Palm Pre running webOS.

The Motorola Droid is the thinnest QWERTY slider

The Motorola Droid is the thinnest QWERTY slider.

The web is richer. Photos are sharper. Videos pop. It has the most advanced browser and Android 2.0 software with a blazing-fast processor and 3G speed for faster search. It has the world's thinnest QWERTY slider at 13.7mm. It can help you navigate turn-by-turn. It has a 5MP camera with a flash, plus loads of great camera features and a DVD-quality recorder to capture all the richer, bigger, wider experiences you're going to have.

It's the phone with the "Hi" IQ.

Get a Free Droid Eris (Double Your Droid)

Get a free HTC Droid Eris if you buy a Motorola Droid or an HTC Droid Eris. Wow, you can't beat that deal, can you? Verizon Wireless is currently having a special sale to help you "Double Your Droid."

Android OS 2.0.1 update for Droid

If you're using a Motorola Droid, have you updated your Android OS to 2.0.1? It's now available and you'll find some nice improvements with this update. To learn more, visit:

Motorola Droid updated to Android OS 2.0.1

Best Verizon Smartphone

As smartphones evolve, which smartphone on the Verizon Wireless network is the "best" one?

Let's narrow this down based on the different smartphone operating systems first:

• Windows Mobile
• BlackBerry
• Android

We don't have anything that runs iPhone or webOS yet.

So, which smartphone is the best? In my opinion, it's still the HTC Touch Pro2 running Windows Mobile. Some may argue that it's the Motorola Droid running Android. BlackBerry lovers will all vote for the Storm 2. What do you think?

Samsung Omnia II is here!

That's right: Samsung Omnia II is now available

New Verizon smartphones coming this month

Are you excited about the new Verizon smartphones that will be appearing this month? We should see the Samsung Omnia 2. What else? Maybe we'll see something from RIM. A new BlackBerry? Will HTC come out with anything new? Maybe we'll finally see the Windows 6.5 ROM for the Touch Pro2.

Verizon Black Friday Sale

You would think that Verizon would have some incredible smartphone sales for Black Friday. Well, I don't see anything impressive on their website. Maybe they spent all their funds on the Droid advertising. I've seen those ads everywhere!

Well, maybe they'll continue to drop the prices on their older smartphones as the holidays get nearer. If you buy an HTC Ozone for $9.99, you can get another one for free! The Samsung Saga is now $49.99.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving? Hope you have a wonderful time with your friends and families. As you gather for parties, make sure to have some conversations about smartphones. Before you know it, you'll have a bunch of tech-lovers pulling out their gadgets and showing off their cases, accessories, favorite apps, etc. I'm very thankful for my family and for the support they provide.

Cheap Verizon Smartphones

As Verizon Wireless gets ready to liquidate some old smartphones and promote new smartphones, you can find some pretty amazing deals. For instance, the Samsung Omnia (not the Omnia II but the original Omnia) is selling for $15. The Omnia II is coming very soon. The HTC Touch Diamond is $50. Don't want a Windows Phone? Then try the HTC Droid Eris for $100 (running Google's Android OS). You can even get the original BlackBerry Storm for $50 since the new BlackBerry Storm 2 is selling for $180.

Remember that Verizon now requires you to subscribe to a data plan if you purchase a smartphone. If you try to drop the data plan, you can expect to pay a hefty premium for your smartphone. Also, they charge extra for tethering, so make sure to ask those questions when you shop at Verizon.

Verizon Smartphone Resource Center

Verizon now has a large selection of smartphones. Confused about your options? Don't know where to begin?

To learn more about the different types of smartphones offered by Verizon Wireless, visit the Smartphone Resource Center found here: https://smartphones.verizonwireless.com/

What do you think about the Verizon ads?

Verizon has these ads ("there's a map for that") that have stirred a significant amount of controversy. AT&T sued Verizon for these ads, but a judge didn't think that Verizon needed to remove these ads. There's another hearing scheduled for December 16. Let's wait to see what ends up happening.

Loving my HTC Touch Pro2

In many ways, I can't seem to remember what life was like before I was using my HTC Touch Pro2. I briefly tried the HTC Touch Pro, the HTC Touch, and even the BlackBerry Storm. I had been a long user of the XV6800 (HTC Titan), so I was accustomed to Windows Mobile.

• I use my Touch Pro2 as my in-car navigation system.
• I use it for my e-mail.
• I use it to browse the web.
• Oh, and I use it as my phone.

It's a great smartphone. Thanks to HTC!

New URL: www.vzwsmartphones.com

I've secured a new URL for this blog: www.vzwsmartphones.com

Tethering on Windows Mobile

Have you been using your Windows Mobile smartphone to tether? If you have a custom ROM or if you install a particular patch, then you can tether very easily by using the features built into the "Internet Sharing" app. However, some may also try PdaNet or some other 3rd party apps to tether. The official way to tether if you're on Verizon Wireless is to use their desktop app for Mobile Broadband Connect. Get ready to pay some extra tethering fees if you plan to tether.

When is Windows Mobile 6.5 coming for the HTC Touch Pro2?

We know that Windows Mobile 6.5 is coming to the HTC Touch Pro2. When? Some rumors indicate that we should be seeing it later this month. I think that's a reasonable rumor. After all, it's available overseas (GSM model), so now it's just a matter of time before Verizon gives the OK. Maybe we'll see Sprint beat Verizon on this one.

The Droids have arrived

The Motorola Droid and the HTC Droid Eris (Hero) are now available on Verizon Wireless. Be advised that tethering fees will be higher on these devices (I really don't understand that), so you may be tempted to use things like PdaNet or flash a custom ROM.

HTC Droid Eris (Hero) for $99 on Verizon Wireless

The HTC Droid Eris (Hero) may be the most affordable Google Android-powered smartphone on the Verizon Network. You'll get this new smartphone for $99.

Why am I calling the Eris a Hero? Well, according to several rumors, the Eris will be the CDMA version of the Hero, which is a GSM smartphone. When HTC makes the same phone for CDMA and GSM networks, they often rename them even though most of the hardware specs are virtually the same. You may find some subtle nuances, such as the location of a headphone jack, the location of the memory card slot, some internal RAM, etc.

Windows Mobile 6.5 update for HTC Touch Pro2

When is the Windows Mobile 6.5 update coming for Verizon Wireless HTC Touch Pro2? Some rumors say that we should see something by the end of November. I don't mind waiting since the update to 6.5 won't really bring any significant improvements. The main benefit will be the update to Internet Explorer Mobile (Pocket IE).

Motorola Droid

The Motorola Droid is coming to Verizon Wireless and it will probably be the first smartphone running Google Android.

Motorola Droid smartphone running Google Android

Windows Mobile 6.5 on the XV6800 (HTC Titan, Sprint Mogul)

The XV6800 is an old smartphone, but there are still many people out there who are using this phone and they're looking for an upgrade to Windows Mobile 6.5

The Verizon XV6800 is also known as the HTC Titan, the Sprint Mogul, the PPC 6800, and several other names. I have an XV6800 and I've been running a custom ROM built on Windows Mobile 6.5

Don't expect to see any major improvements.
Don't expect to see any speed or performance enhancements.

The only major improvement is in Internet Explorer Mobile (IE Mobile).

BlackBerry Storm 2 to be released in October

Yes, I believe the rumors out there. We should be seeing an updated version of the BlackBerry Storm this month. Let's hope it has more internal Flash RAM.

Windows Mobile 6.5 is a disappointment

It seems like many people agree that Windows Mobile 6.5 is a disappointment. I've been using Windows Mobile 6.5 for several months, so I forgot how it compared to 6.1. To be honest, 6.5 really doesn't offer much especially in smartphones made by HTC that integrate TouchFlo. In other smartphones made by Samsung and other companies, I think the update to 6.5 will improve finger touch-input and navigation, but you'll still need a stylus for certain applications.

Windows Mobile 6.5 disappoints

My colleagues now have the Touch Pro2

I went around recommending the Touch Pro2 to everyone, and now many of my colleagues who use Verizon Wireless have gotten the Touch Pro2. I'm eager to see what other new smartphones come out this fall on the Verizon network. For now, the Touch Pro2 is at the top of the list.

HTC Imagio coming to Verizon

The HTC Imagio is coming to Verizon this month. Looking forward to seeing other Windows Mobile phones on Verizon. I'm still using the HTC Touch Pro2 and I really like it.

Could I live without the hardware keyboard? Probably. However, the keyboard really typing much more efficient when I'm doing a lot of typing.

No flash on the Verizon Touch Pro2

I'm very happy with the HTC Touch Pro2 smartphone on Verizon Wireless. However, I really miss the LED flash that was on the older Touch Pro. I used that LED flash as a flashlight more than a camera flash. If I could change one major thing on the Touch Pro2, I would return the LED flash.

Easily switching smartphones on Verizon with *228 option 3

I was driving to work today and I realized that I left my Touch Pro2 at home. Well, no worries. I pulled out my old XV6900 (AKA, HTC Vogue or Touch) and hit *228 option 3. Within a minute, I was up and running on my old smartphone. There was no need to go back home and grab my phone.

It's become much easier to switch phones on Verizon. It's not as easy as pulling out a SIM card and moving it to another phone, but the *228 option 3 is very convenient. Now, I can use a small and light smartphone when I go for a run and then easily switch back to my larger Touch Pro2 for business use. Brilliant!

Touch Pro2 is the best smartphone on Verizon

I've used many of the smartphones offered by Verizon Wireless. By far, the HTC Touch Pro2 is the best one so far. I'm very impressed by this phone and although it's not perfect, it's by far the best one that Verizon has carried on their network.

I'm eager to see how other smartphones compare. We should be seeing newer versions of the Samsung Omnia along with several other Windows Mobile smartphones this fall.

So, if you're a fan of Windows Mobile, then make sure to check out the HTC Touch Pro2. Don't expect a perfect phone, but you can expect one that has some excellent features!

HTC Touch Pro2 (Verizon Wireless)

I am now using the HTC Touch Pro2 as my current smartphone. I just got it today and I have quite a few initial thoughts. Care to read them?

HTC Touch Pro2 (Verizon): initial impressions from day 1

I plan to write more each day as I test this device and install various applications on it. So far, it's a mixed review from my end...

HTC Touch Pro2 at Verizon Wireless

The HTC Touch Pro2 may be one of the best Windows Mobile smartphones this fall for Verizon Wireless customers. I'm currently using a Touch Pro and I really like it. It's probably the best smartphone I've ever owned. The Touch Pro2 has a larger screen and it will officially run Windows Mobile 6.5 (even though I'm running an unofficial ROM that contains Windows Mobile 6.5 on my current Touch Pro).

I'm eager to see how Verizon prices the Touch Pro2. In the past, they've had a habit of overpricing their smartphones. Now that other devices are averaging $200, will this new device be competitively priced?

Windows Mobile 6.5 coming in October

According to many rumors, the official version of Windows Mobile 6.5 is coming to smartphones in October. Now, does this mean that upgrades will also be available for existing smartphones? That probably won't happen for the older smartphones. Time to look for those custom ROMs that run Windows Mobile 6.5. Read:

Windows Mobile 6.5 coming in October

Tethering on a $30 Verizon e-mail and web smartphone data plan

If you're on Verizon Wireless and you'd like to tether using your smartphone, then you have to be on a data plan (or Mobile Broadband plan) that costs approximately $49.99 plus you have to pay a $15 tethering fee. Your monthly costs are $65.

On the other hand, Verizon offers a $30 data plan (called "e-mail and web for smartphone"), but you're not technically allowed to tether on this plan. So, is it possible to tether if you're on the $30 plan?

I only know of two ways this can be done:

1. Use PdaNet (must run on your smartphone and your PC)
   
2. Load a custom ROM that allows you to tether without the need for any special software

The proper way to tether on Verizon is to pay $65 each month and use VZAccess Manager (found at http://www.vzam.net).

HTC smartphones on Verizon Wireless

In my opinion, HTC makes some of the best Windows Mobile smartphones. They're now making more devices that run Google Android, but as long as Microsoft remains alive, Windows Mobile will be a popular smartphone operating system. So, if you're on Verizon Wireless and you're looking for a Windows phone, get one made by HTC. Remember that many of these devices end up getting rebranded as an XV6800 or XV6900. You'll have to do a bit of research to identify them as an HTC product.

Windows Mobile 6.5 custom ROMs for the HTC Touch Pro

I've been testing several different Windows Mobile 6.5 custom ROMs for the HTC Touch Pro. So far, I find that the one made by DCD gives you the most free memory after a reboot. However, if you really like having different utilities and options, then you may want to try MightyROM6 or my personal favorite as of right now: NFSFAN

I prefer installing my own apps so that the system RAM is freed up for memory-intense applications such as Opera Mobile.

GPS on the HTC Touch Pro

The HTC Touch Pro that I received from Verizon must have had a strange setting because the built-in GPS did not work out of the box. I loaded a custom radio ROM and a custom Windows Mobile 6.5 ROM and the GPS still didn't work! I had to dig through several forums to finally get the GPS to work.

At this point, the built-in GPS is locking to satellites very quickly. It's not receiving assistance from the network because the speed of achieving a GPS lock is the same whether the phone is on or off. I will continue to perform additional tests.

Right now, I'm using Might ROM Windows Mobile 6.5 and I have radio ROM 1.12.34F

I ordered an HTC Touch Pro

My XV6900 (Vogue) gets a slow GPS lock because it's not getting assistance from the network.
My XV6800 (Titan) gets a quick GPS lock because it's getting assistance from the network.

I can't seem to get my XV6900 (Vogue) to connect with QPST. I'm unable to find drivers for this phone. I was able to get the XV6800 (Titan) to connect so that I could tweak the aGPS settings.

Well, it appears that it's time for me to move on from the Titan. Therefore, I'm getting the HTC Touch Pro (for free with my "new every two" credit). This device has an unlocked aGPS, so I won't need to flash any custom ROMs. However, since I'd like to run Windows Mobile 6.5, I'll probably still install some type of custom ROM on this device.

Testing the XV6900

Yes, I'm now testing the XV6900 (HTC Vogue). I was able to flash a custom radio ROM and a custom Windows Mobile 6.5 ROM. However, I'm having a few issues:

• the built-in GPS isn't working very well (difficult to get a lock, so I must not be getting any network assistance)
  
• the Internet Sharing (for tethering) isn't working (the "connect" option is grayed out)

Will continue to perform a few additional tests...

Samsung Saga: a thin Treo

The Samsung Saga is like a really thin Treo. I really like this phone, but the price on it hasn't come down yet. Maybe I should wait until the price drops and then snatch this phone for a good price.

The Saga has a square screen and a built-in hardware keyboard. It's a really thin device, so I'd probably need the extended battery. Since the Saga has a built-in GPS chip, it could eventually be a standalone GPS.

Windows Mobile 6.5 on the XV6800 (HTC Titan)

I'm actually quite impressed by the way Windows Mobile 6.5 runs on this old machine. It has a relatively slow processor and is limited in RAM, but the optimized version of Windows Mobile 6.5 isn't too bad. I like the larger fonts, the large buttons, and the overall touch-friendly feel of the operating system. I will continue to run my tests on the XV6800 (HTC Titan, Sprint Mogul).

Next week, I may order the HTC Touch Pro. If I do, I'll be running Windows Mobile 6.5 on it and I may have to rename this blog.

I Returned the BlackBerry Storm

I'm back to Windows Mobile. I returned the BlackBerry Storm after using it for a few days. Want to know why? Take a look at these posts:

• Transitioning from Windows Mobile to BlackBerry

• BlackBerry Storm: my initial impressions

Testing Windows 6.5 on the HTC Titan (XV6800)

I'm taking the plunge. After using Windows Mobile 6.1 for such a long time, I decided to give Windows Mobile 6.5 a try. Let's see how my little experiment goes over the next several days. Hopefully I won't end up with a brick (paperweight).

Installing build 23017. Since the XV6800 (HTC Titan) has very little RAM and a slow processor, I'm not expecting dazzling results with Windows 6.5. However, I'd like to know if it's usable, so this is really just for my edification.

Switching to the BlackBerry Storm

I've ordered the BlackBerry Storm. Let's see how I like using that as my next smartphone. Since I have 30 days to try it out, I'll be writing about my experiences on MedicalSmartphones.com

If the transition is successful, then I'll be using my XV6800 (HTC Titan) as a standalone GPS for my car.

Time to keep an eye on new smartphone prices

I've decided that it's time to replace my XV6800 over the next few months. I could replace it now, but I'd like to wait. I'm going to keep my eye on smartphone prices and then I'll make the switch when prices near $99 (the BlackBerry Storm is currently $99 because the Storm 2 is coming out this fall).

Getting another XV6800 replacement

The keyboard on my XV6800 has developed a defective problem yet again. Hence, I am requesting another replacement from Verizon Wireless. The last time this happened, I received a replacement which was defective.

HTC makes great devices, but what is it about the Titan keyboard that causes these issues? Spacing too tight? Dust? My next phone won't be a slider and it may not even have a hardware keyboard. I may end up with the Samsung Omnia or the BlackBerry Storm (although there are newer versions of each of these phones that will be appearing later in 2009 and in 2010).

HTC Hero running Android

The HTC Hero runs Google Android. Is it the best phone out there running Android? It may be for now, but the hardware has to improve in order for this phone to really live up to its value. Faster speed often means reduced battery life. Since phones are being made so thin these days, we're seeing phone manufacturers balance the delicate need for performance with battery life. Well, maybe the HTC Hero 2 will be a winner when it comes out in a few years.

Double letters with a single key press

I've heard others have the same problem. You press a key once and you see two or three letters (the same letters) appear. Is this a hardware problem or a software problem? If the key is getting "stuck," then it's obviously a hardware issue. Do you have this issue with repeating key strokes? I've changed my "Buttons" setting and the "Delay before first repeat" is set to "Long."

Is the keyboard on the XV6800 poorly designed? Looks like HTC revised the keyboard for all future sliders, so I hope they've made some design improvements.

Verizon unlocks the GPS on the Samsung Omnia

A software update released by Verizon Wireless now unlocks the built-in GPS in the Samsung Omnia running Windows Mobile. It's about time!

I've had to hack, I mean "modify" my XV6800 so that I can use the built-in GPS chip. Why do you have to disable these Verizon? If the phone manufacturer included a feature like an internal GPS chip, then we (as consumers) should be free to use it. Don't you think?

The HTC Touch Pro now also has an unlocked GPS chip. Users of the Samsung Saga still need to wait. To get the update, visit the Samsung website and look for the CF03 Software Upgrade. Or, visit this link.

Skyfire 1.0

I've been using Skyfire on my XV6800 and it's probably the most reliable mobile browser that allows me to easily zoom in and out on this device. Other browsers were OK, but I often encountered "memory out" problems.

For the first time ever, on your phone, you can watch any video, connect with friends, listen to music, shop, and browse the web using the full-featured PC versions of your favorite websites. With Skyfire, mobile browsing just works - speedy page loads, full video, images and audio.

So what are you waiting for?

Verizon Wireless XV6800

Samsung Omnia for Verizon Wireless

Here's an interesting video of the Samsung Omnia.

Still using my XV6800 as a GPS navigation device

I've had many opportunities to upgrade my phone on Verizon Wireless. However, I'm still using my XV6800 as a smartphone, wireless modem (tethering), and GPS navigation device for driving. I don't know when I'll be upgrading, but I'm trying to wait as long as possible.

The XV6800 has been reliable and although it's a bit on the slow side and it lacks enough RAM to run Opera Mobile, it's still a very good phone.

Samsung Omnia II coming to Verizon Wireless

I'm really excited about this new phone. The Samsung Omnia II is coming to Verizon Wireless and it's going to be a very fast smartphone.

Verizon's EV-DO Rev A, 5MPx camera, Opera Mobile 9.5, and an 800 MHz processor.

OK HTC, let's see what you have up your sleeve. HTC Hero?

Palm Pre coming to Verizon Wireless?

According to the rumors: Verizon to Offer Palm Pre and BlackBerry Storm 2

HTC Hero

HTC has a new phone coming! HTC Hero will run Google's Android

Tethering on Verizon Wireless

Read my post here: Tethering on Verizon Wireless

Samsung Omnia Pro or Louvre B7610

Looks like the new Samsung Omnia Pro will be the ultimate Windows Mobile smartphone on Verizon Wireless. If you're looking for a new slider like the XV6800 (or HTC Titan, Sprint Mogul), then you'll be in luck very soon. This new Samsung looks like it will be a really nice phone.

Verizon Unlocks the GPS on the HTC Touch Pro

The title says it all: Verizon Unlocks the GPS on the HTC Touch Pro. If you're a luck owner of the HTC Touch Pro and you haven't flashed the radio or phone ROM to enable the GPS, you're in luck! Users of the Samsung Omnia and Samsung Saga are still waiting for Verizon to unlock the GPS.

Using the XV6800 as a Stand-Alone GPS

I'm tempted to replace my HTC XV6800. I've had it for a while now and although it still works fine, I'd like to have something that has more internal memory so that I can do more web browsing. If I get a new smartphone, perhaps I should use the XV6800 as a stand-alone GPS device in my car. The biggest downside of doing this is that the XV6800 isn't very fast at locking satellite signals when you compare it to other stand-alone GPS systems made by TomTom, Garmin, and Magellan. Also, the XV6800 has a relatively small screen compared to some of the newer GPS navigation systems. So, what will I do? Well, at this point, I'm not committed to replacing this phone, so I guess I'll just wait and see what else comes along.

Do You Work in Healthcare?

If you work in healthcare and you use a smartphone, then you should take a look at this: Patient Data on Your Smartphone

Happy Memorial Day!

Happy Memorial Day! What are you doing today?

Tethering

If you use Verizon Wireless, you need VZAccess Manager to tether your smartphone to your laptop/notebook/ultra-mobile PC. Where do you go to download VZAccess Manager? You can find it here: http://www.vzam.net

Verizon used to call tethering "BroadbandAccess Connect." That phrase confused me. Now, it looks like they're using the phrase "Mobile Broadband Connect." That sounds better, but why don't they just call it what it is? Tethering. Plain and simple.

Read more here: Tethering on Verizon Wireless

My Battery is Dead

I've decided that the original battery on my Verizon XV6800 is now dead. I've had this battery for about 18 months now, but my phone is relatively new because I received a replacement from Verizon.

I have an extended battery so I plan to use that moving forward. I don't think I'll be replacing the original battery anytime soon. Why? Mainly because I use my XV6800 as a GPS quite often and I also use it heavily as a mobile internet device (MID). These services can drain the battery quickly.

So, if I had an iPhone that was also 18 months old, would my battery be dying?

Future of Windows Mobile Seems Uncertain

I'm concerned about the future of Windows Mobile. We've seen the Apple iPhone really take off. The BlackBerry is stable within the corporate world. Android is gaining momentum and Palm has the WebOS in the new Pre. So what about Windows Mobile? We're all hearing rumors and still waiting to see some new and exciting developments from the people at Microsoft.

Mother's Day

Hope you had a nice Mother's Day today. What did you get your mom? I got her a new phone. What a great gift, right? Now, she can call me anytime!

Another Follow Friday

Since it's Follow Friday (#followfriday), I will follow everyone who follows me today on Twitter.

Should I Replace my XV6800 for a Palm Pre?

I've applied to be a reviewer for the Palm Pre. I hope I get picked, because then I'll get to play with the phone for 6 months. I wonder if I'll end up switching to the Palm Pre from the xv6800. What will happen to this blog?

HTC Rank: Not Great

The latest J.D. Power and Associates satisfaction survey on smartphones ranked HTC in the middle (it didn't do as well as Apple). It was better than some, but LG and Samsung ranked higher than HTC. Seems to suggest that Taiwan is still lagging a bit behind Korea.

Twitter Follow Friday

It's Follow Friday on Twitter. Make recommendations and see who others recommend. Hope to see you on Twitter. Follow me and I'll follow you!

iPhone on Verizon?

Take a look at this: Is the iPhone Coming to Verizon?

Dwindling Battery Life

The battery life on my XV6800 is dwindling. Since it's a lithium ion battery, it has a finite life span and I think I'm approaching it quickly. I've been debating about whether I should get an aftermarket extended battery. At this point, I need something, so perhaps I'll try one out.

Use Your XV6800 is a GPS

If you have an old Verizon Wireless XV6800 (or Sprint Mogul) at home, don't throw it away because you can use it as a standalone GPS. You can turn off the phone service and still use it as a GPS device. Isn't that great to know? You just need to get your hands on some software like TomTom Navigator or Garmin Mobile for Pocket PC/Windows Mobile.

HTC Touch Diamond Gets a Few Hotfixes

HTC has released some hotfixes for the Touch Diamond.

• Audio Hotfix
• Reminders Hotfix

Thanks to the people at Brighthand for the tip.

Windows Mobile 6.5 to be Released on May 11

I've been a Windows Mobile user since the days of the old Windows CE platform which evolved to Pocket PC and then to Windows Mobile. Soon, it will be called "Windows Phone." Won't that be confusing? I still want an iPhone, but I'm locked into Verizon Wireless, so I'll just stick with my XV6800 for now.

I can't believe that May is around the corner. Windows Mobile 6.5 will be released on May 11.

Can the XV6800 Handle Windows Mobile 6.5?

People are eager to know whether their Verizon Wireless XV6800 (Sprint Mogul, HTC Titan) can run Windows Mobile 6.5

What do you think? Several people at XDA Developers have been loading custom ROMs that have Windows Mobile 6.5

Are you willing to try?

Tethering Speeds on EV-DO

AT&T is advertising that they currently have the fastest 3G network in the United States. How does Verizon Wireless currently compare?

I'm still getting good speed while tethering with my XV6800.

SkyFire 0.9

Try SkyFire on your Verizon Wireless XV6800. Version 0.9 is now available as a free download. It's still not mobile Safari on an iPhone, but it's one of the better mobile browsers for Windows Mobile.

To get it, type: http://get.skyfire.com into your mobile browser and download the CAB file.

Windows Mobile 6.5 is Coming Soon

According to the rumors, Windows Mobile 6.5 is coming soon. It's really a shame, but I don't think the XV6800 can handle this new operating system.

Verizon 3G Network Problems

I've still been having some intermittent 3G connection problems with Verizon Wireless. I hope they've made all their upgrades by now. Maybe it's my phone. I wonder how often people have problems on other carriers like Sprint, T-Mobile, AT&T, and others. Overall, I've been happy with Verizon Wireless, but these recent network outages have been very frustrating.

Verizon System Updates = Network Problems

I've been told that Verizon Wireless is currently performing some system updates to their 3G wireless network. Earlier today, I was getting the dreaded Error Code: 11 & PPP Connection Issues. I hope Verizon is quick to implement these updates so that I can get back online!

When is Windows Mobile 6.5 Coming to Verizon?

We've all been hearing about the nice new features on Windows Mobile 6.5. Isn't it funny how Microsoft went from version 6, to 6.1, and now to 6.5? Will there be a 6.8 or 6.9 before version 7 gets released? Why such incremental changes?

For me, the biggest advantage of Windows Mobile 6.5 is the new Pocket Internet Explorer 6.5. I currently have a nice version of PIE because of the custom ROM loaded on my XV6800. However, it's not as nice as PIE 6.5 and I don't think my XV6800 could handle PIE 6.5 because the hardware just isn't robust enough for those requirements. It's a shame because these little devices have such incredible potential. They are considered mobile internet devices (MIDs) by many, but they don't really have the firepower as other dedicated MIDs.

Don't Throw Away Your XV6800. It's a GPS

If you decide to upgrade your smartphone someday, don't throw away your Verizon XV6800. It can be used as a standalone GPS device, even if the phone isn't activated or connected to any service plans. Therefore, you could make a TomTom or Garmin out of your Windows Mobile XV6800 and have it as a backup GPS.

Have GPS devices really improved the safety of driving? This is somewhat controversial because some may argue that people are getting into more accidents as they tap on the screen and lose focus on the road. Others may say that people are safer because they're more confident about their driving and they aren't slowing down erratically or making unsafe turns.

The HTC Touch Pro2

Wow, the HTC Touch Pro2 really looks like a nice device. It will have a 3.6" touch screen (which is almost an inch longer than my current HTC Titan or XV6800 that has a 2.8" screen). Plus, it will feature the tilting keyboard that slides out. Personally, I think this is a great feature because you can set your device on a table and still see what's on the display.

With much more internal RAM and a fast processor, it should run Windows Mobile 6.5 without any problems. Maybe it will even get the upgrade for Windows Mobile 7 when it becomes available (or maybe that's just wishful thinking). Well, I'm happy with my XV6800 for now, so I don't plan to make any changes.

Actually, if (or when) I upgrade to a new smartphone, I probably won't go with a slider anymore. I'll probably get a candybar style device or maybe a thin touch screen device that doesn't have a hardware keyboard. I like to use my phone with one hand and I find that the slider just isn't good for that.

Still Waiting for Verizon to Unlock the aGPS on HTC and Samsung

People are still waiting for Verizon Wireless to unlock the aGPS on the HTC Touch Pro, the Samsung Omnia, and the Samsung Saga. Even though the XV6900 (or HTC Vogue) also has an internal aGPS chip, Verizon won't be unlocking that. So, if you want to use the GPS on that device, you'll need to do some adventurous ROM flashing. I'm still lucky to have the XV6800 (or HTC Titan, Sprint Mogul, PPC 6800) that has an internal aGPS that works really well once you load a custom ROM and apply a few tweaks (or apply a few tweaks to the MR1 or MR2 ROM released by Verizon).

It's so handy to have a phone that has an internal aGPS. The safety implications of having a GPS device are also huge. In fact, I'm surprised that Verizon hasn't faced any significant lawsuits from people who may have sustained injury that could have been avoided if the aGPS on their device had not been locked or disabled by Verizon.

Well, fortunately Verizon won't be crippling future smartphones that have a built-in aGPS. However, there are many current customers who are waiting for that software upgrade!

Getting the aGPS to work on the XV6800 MR2

The release of MR1 and MR2 for the Verizon XV6800 has complicated things quite significantly. I had to install an older Verizon ROM, then update the bootloader, then install the new radio ROM, then install the new device ROM. Once you do that, then you need to run QPST and change a few settings to enable the aGPS.

Verizon Wireless 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution)

Verizon Wireless is working on 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution). Is it possible we'll start seeing some phones with 4G capability next year? Download speeds of 50 megabits per second!

Defective keyboard on my XV6800

I've recently discovered that my refurbished replacement XV6800 sent by Verizon Wireless has a severely defective keyboard. Not only do certain keys repeat themselves when I press them once. The "B" button does not work. The #7 is also on that button. Hence, I am crippled with a defective keyboard and I have to pull up the on-screen keyboard when I want to type either "B" or "7." Come on Verizon! Send me a working replacement please!

Stuck on the Bootloader Screen

I got stuck on the Bootloader screen today as I was updating a few things on my XV6800. Fortunately, I still had an active USB connection and I was able to install the DCD 4.1.2 custom ROM on my device. This is a really nice ROM mainly because you can use your finger to pan/scroll more pages up and down, including on Pocket Internet Explorer. However, since I have Skyfire, this isn't a huge benefit.

Unfortunately, I'll have to go through this again in a few days because my device has a defective keyboard. I hate reinstalling all my applications.

Valhalla Legends GPSServer.cab and GC Verizon aGPS.cab

These are essential components if you'd like to enable the aGPS on your XV6800:

Valhalla Legends GPSServer.cab
GC Verizon aGPS.cab

Installing Custom ROM All Over Again to Enable the GPS

I wasn't planning on this, but the 4-way navigation buttons on my XV6800 have failed. Therefore, it's time to go through the circus again and install a new BootLoader, a new radio ROM, and a new custom ROM so that I can use the internal GPS that's disabled by Verizon Wireless.

I'm debating whether I should attempt to install the beta version of Windows Mobile 6.5. I don't have the luxury of spending too much time on this. I mainly need a dependable working phone. I tether and I use the aGPS (assisted GPS) for driving. The aGPS allows for super-fast satellite acquisition.

Pay per KB on Verizon Wireless Still Available on the XV6800

If you're lucky enough to have the XV6800 on Verizon Wireless, you can still avoid the "mandatory" data plan. So, does that mean that these types of smartphones will be in higher demand by those who don't want to pay for a data plan?

Data plan now required with verizon wireless

If you're on Verizon Wireless and you want to get a new smartphone (or PDA phone if you will), you MUST get a data plan. This policy started last September. Why?

I'm so disappointed by this. My wife has been using a Treo for a while now (without a data plan) and now she needs a replacement smartphone. She doesn't need a data plan, but now she's forced to get one if she wants to keep a smartphone. Doesn't sound right, does it?

What's going on Verizon? At least offer the pay per KB plan for all smartphones and BlackBerry devices. That's the least you can do for all those users who don't need a data plan but want to combine a phone and a PDA.

Going Back to the Stock Verizon ROM for the XV6800

I need to install the stock Verizon ROM on my XV6800. I've been using a custom ROM that allows me to use the built-in GPS and it's been great. But, it's time for me to go through the steps of installing the original ROM. Can you guess why?

If Verizon hadn't disabled the built-in GPS, then I wouldn't have gone through all the trouble. Now, I have to go through all these complicated steps at the risk of turning my phone into a nice paperweight brick.

Thank goodness for the HTC Titan wiki. The first step is the BootLoader. I've already done that using a microSD card. Now, I need to go through and replace the phone ROM and the radio ROM. Verizon now has both an MR1 and an MR2 ROM update listed on their website so you can get Windows Mobile 6.1 and RevA speeds.

Thankfully, all the newer Verizon phones don't come crippled with disabled GPS chips.

Windows Mobile 6.5 on the XV6800

There are some beta versions of Windows Mobile 6.5 floating around for the HTC Titan (XV6800, Sprint Mogul). Looks like it will be more touch-friendly based on some of the pictures floating around.

Buttons Not Working Well

The 4-way navigation buttons on my XV6800 aren't working very well anymore. I'm not entirely sure why, but I may be calling Verizon and asking for a replacement. I'll have to see if this improves over time or if it gets worse. I'm not too optimistic right now. I just hope that Verizon still has many spare XV6800 on hand to act as replacements.

Buying a new Verizon Wireless smartphone

If you had to purchase a smartphone as a new Verizon Wireless customer, which one would you choose?

Windows Mobile?
BlackBerry?
Palm?

Windows Mobile 6.5

Interested in running Windows Mobile 6.5 on your Verizon XV6800? (AKA Mogul, HTC Titan). Or, are you content with 6.1 and are you waiting for Windows Mobile 7?

Some developers have released a working beta of 6.5. Check out the XDA Developers forum to find it.