Ericsson T28

Appearances aside, the T28 is a mixed bag. On the pro side, the T28 is one of a growing number of "world" GSM phones (which include the Motorola P7389 and the Nokia 8890), a phone that can be used on the European, Asian and U.S. GSM networks. It's also one of the smallest phones with a newfangled lithium polymer battery that supplies plenty of juice, without adding bulk. And the "smart" battery meter tells you precisely how much talk and standby time remains.

As with many tiny phones you get a small screen -- only three lines. The clock is wacky, but this could be because it's a pre-production model. And the sound quality is sometimes muffled. Other than that, it's definitely worth a look for global travelers.

Ericsson's T28 World cell phone is aimed specifically at users who travel regularly internationally. It's a dual-band phone that uses the digital cellular standard known as the Global System for Mobile Communication, or GSM.

OVERVIEW
Although GSM is an international system, there are several mutually incompatible variants in existence. The T28 can switch between 1900 MHz GSM (the US version) and 900 MHz GSM (widely used elsewhere). US consumers should be aware that GSM coverage in the United States is still limited; be sure to check with your local cellular carriers that you'll have coverage before buying any GSM phone.

Depending on what's offered by your cellular service provider, the T28 can support a number of optional subscription features. For example, the three-line LCD can display Caller ID information, or function as an alphanumeric pager if you subscribe to Short Message Service (SMS). Even without these optional functions, the LCD gives you access to the phone's 250-entry dialing directory. Ã,Ã,Â

• dual-mode GSM phone
• 1900 MHz US.; 900 MHz elsewhere
• flip-style design
• 250-entry dialing directory
• three-line backlit LCD
• lightweight lithium-polymer battery
• 10 hours talk, 484 hours standby
• 1-hour Global Rapid Charger included
• selectable ring tones and vibration alert
• 4 x 2 x 0.6 inches (HWD); 0.19 lbs.