Orange SPV E200

Orange is showing no signs of slowing down its smartphone releases, and has just launched the update to its popular SPV series, the E200. Readers familiar with the SPV will immediately be familiar with the E200.

It uses exactly the same chassis bar a couple of cosmetic changes, which means it can use all of the same add-ons as the E100. However, the rear of the case now houses a digital camera. It's a shame, though, that there's no shortcut button to launch this.

Not a lot has changed inside; the E200 uses the same 133MHz processor as its predecessor. Orange has, however, upgraded the memory to 32MB, and an 8MB Secure Digital (SD) card comes as standard.

But the biggest hardware change comes from Bluetooth support. It might not sound much, but with UK law now requiring drivers to use hands-free kits, it's handy to have.

The E200 runs Microsoft's Windows Mobile 2003 for Smartphone OS, which is significantly better than the 2002 edition. The interface is a lot cleaner and it's easier to get at common tasks. For example, highlighting the Message icon on the homepage displays a dropdown menu with choices for writing a new message or sending a picture. Additional programs are now accessed through a Start menu, just like any other Microsoft OS. This has had some minor tweaks too - holding the '1' key in a text message no longer automatically prints a smilie emoticon, but this won't annoy many people.

At £100 with a contract, the E200 is amazing value and one of our favourite smartphones. However, aside from Bluetooth, there's not enough here to warrant an upgrade from either of the previous SPVs.

Contact: Orange 0500 802 080
www.orange.co.uk

Specifications:

• 133MHz processor
• 32MB of Ram
• Windows Mobile 2003 for Smartphone
• Bluetooth
• Camera (640 x 480)
• Tri-band
• GPRS
• 130g
• Three-hour talk time
• 3 days standby
• 120 x 50 x 24mm (h x w x d)