The Amstrad Em@iler Plus has arrived to replace the original, which is now over 18 months old. A sleek new outfit is the most obvious update, but there are a few differences under the skin to justify the £20 premium it commands over the outgoing model.

When you crank the Em@iler into life, the software looks identical to the old model and operates in a similar way. A web browser has been included so some simple surfing is now on the cards, but it's a poor substitute for an internet-ready PC.

The stickers plastered all over the Em@iler literature are a little offputting as they state forcefully that owners have 'NO CHANCE' of making it work without leafing through the instruction manual. That didn't bode well for ease of use but the Em@iler is very simple to set up. We sent our first email 10 minutes after breaking open the box.

Composing messages is a snap thanks to the chunky Mailboard, a smart keyboard which slides under the front of the phone when not in use. It feels robust and is comfortable to use, even if the keys are a little bit on the small side.

The text message facility is a new addition to the Em@iler armoury but, like the fax option, it can send messages but not receive them.

The monochrome screen is comfortable to use despite its dinky dimensions.

A USB port accompanies the parallel one, allowing a wide range of PC printers to be attached.

For people of a certain age, the inclusion of the ZX Sinclair Spectrum Games Centre looks to be a good move. Fans of the 1980s home computer can reminisce while playing classic games. It's fun, but they cost 50p to download and that only buys you three days' playing time. Each time you dial up to collect email or surf the web costs 12p.

If you write all your emails offline and send them in one go, this is a cost-effective way to communicate, and easier than starting up your PC for jotting the occasional email.Contact
Amstrad: 0800 138 8879 www.amstrad.co.uk

ALSO CONSIDER

Bush Interactive TV
Not yet reviewed
£170