First impressions: Samsung i450
December 26, 2007

I450 is not only a music-oriented mobile phone with a cool music button as a gimmick. It is also Samsung's first smartphone with Symbian Series 60 on the European market. The impression so far in testing is that the phone succeeds on both accounts.

The very first impression of Samsung i450 is a certain plasticness. I suppose the colours white and ultramarine contribute, because once I got used to them, the phone feels well built and solid.

The slide has an odd feel to it, and then I remember: the phone is a double slide. Slide the screen up for the number keys, slide down for loudspeaker and music wheel. The slide feels solid enough.

The music wheel is probably the most eye-catching part of this phone, and what it will be remembered for. It isn't really a wheel, more like a crescent moon-shaped rubber touchpad. The touchpad is extended virtually on the screen of the phone, and the music player starts when you slide open the top.

By stroking the wheel up or down, you scroll through menu selections and songs, and with a slight press on the pad, you select. It requires a certain technique that I quickly get the handle of. Graphically, the music player follows through with the wheel analogy, with the selections rolling past on the other side of the wheel and the volume indicator extending like rings from the wheel. I like it.

The stereo headset included in the package is of more than sufficient quality, if not up to the standard of the headsets included with the more expensive Sony Ericsson or Nokia music phones. Interestingly, the i450 actually have double audio connectors. In addition to the Samsung universal connector, there is a standard 2,5 mm connector for those who want to use their headset of choice. A 3,5 mm connector would have been preferable, but adapters are easy to find.

In addition to being a music-phone, Samsung i450 is a competent smartphone with Symbian Series 60 as its system. Anyone who has used a Nokia smartphone will feel right at home. The impression so far is that i450 delivers as a smartphone as well.

By: Elias Nordling