Samsung N330
Samsung N330
The product: Slider cell phones are relatively new, but more handsets with alternative designs are promised in 2005. These form factors are especially present in Samsung's new lineup, as its N330 sports a screen that slides up behind the keypad. The basic phone features are there, such as text and enhanced messaging, a wireless Web browser, and a basic personal organizer; you also get added goodies, including a speakerphone and voice recognition.

• Pop-up sliding design
• Wireless Web browser
• Voice recognition
• 65,000-color display
• Speakerphone
• Personal organizer features

The prospects: The Samsung N330 offers a great design without all the fancy features. Since the consumer need for basic phones will always be big, the N330 ensures they need not all have mundane designs. If the price is kept down to compete with other entry-level handsets, Samsung should do well with this model.

By Kent German, associate editor, CNET Reviews