The Kyocera 3245 brings another option to the table for CDMA users.As the 3245 operates under the same CDMA200 1x technology as Kyocera's smartphone, it is only available on Telstra's Mobile Loop network (in Australia) which offers download speeds up to 144kbps. Although this technology is much faster than GPRS, it is less than half the speed of Hutchison's 3 service which boasts up to 384 kbps of bandwidth.
Apart from the bulky size of the handset (11.7cm x 5cm x 2.6cm), we must give Kyocera credit for the 3245's refreshingly practical design. The buttons on the keypad sink in towards the middle and the similarly shaped number key are simple and swift to navigate through the menu structure. There is a four-way rocker key between the standard talk, end, ok, and back keys. For its size, it doesn't seem to heavy--it tips the scales at 120 grams.
Our test model came with an additional battery cover that Kyocera calls a "sports clip". Basically, it acts as a stand and a belt clip for the handset (altough the manual states the clip is designed to attach to backpacks or purses and not on clothing or belts). This clip adds a little more to the thickness of the mobile but is handy for people on the go. The clip survived all the tests we put it through and did not detach once. When the clip hinge is only half opened, it can act as a base for the phone and you can sit the handset upright on a flat surface.
Speakerphone can be turned on at the push of a button dedicated to this task alone. Pressing this whilst using the stand allows for an easy handsfree call where you can see the screen from your desk.
The retractable whip antenna is a bit cumbersome, especially if you extend it to its full 11cm length to make a phone call. We found reception and voice quality were not affected by extending the antenna, even though the manual recommends this during calls/data transfer.
The implementation of the phonebook is impressive and intuitive. About 200 contacts can be saved and classified as business or personal. Each entry can have multiple phone numbers (for mobile, home, work, pager and fax) as well as a street address, URL, e-mail address and notes.
Text input for SMS is quickest through eZi text (as seen on the LG 7020). It is similar to auto-complete in PC text boxes where after entering a couple of letters you are prompted with possible matches of the same length or longer. Prewritten messages, such as "Call me back" can be stored as AutoText messages and easily inserting into new messages. A signature can be stored which attaches itself to all outgoing messages and group lists can be created for mass mailing your contacts.
It has a decent version of Tetris installed that instantly brought back memories when we heard The Tetris Song. There's also a a paddle and ball game (similar to Arkanoid/Breakout) called Brick Attack and a card game called Race 21. When a call is received the lights on the mobile will flash slowly, quickly or rhythmically, depending on your specified setting. A vibrating alert can also be switched on.
Other applications include a scheduler, an alarm clock, a timer and a stopwatch. These all worked smoothly in our tests, as did the voice dialling commands. The Lithium-ion battery latested a respectable four days under average use.
Kyocera 3245
Company: Kyocera
Price: AU$469
Distributor: Selected resellers
Phone: 1800 50 7000
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The loudspeaker facility is a godsend for hard of hearing users . The keypad is very user friendly. The only criticsm is some of the programming for the menu is a bit limited for new users.