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Taking Microsoft's Kin for a spin

Although she's a bit outside Microsoft's target demographic, CNET's Ina Fried is giving the Kin a test drive.

Ina Fried Former Staff writer, CNET News
During her years at CNET News, Ina Fried changed beats several times, changed genders once, and covered both of the Pirates of Silicon Valley.
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Ina Fried

Although the Kin is aimed at folks somewhat younger than myself, I was nonetheless eager to get my hands on Microsoft's latest phone foray.

The Kin may not be an app phone, but when it comes down to it, the main things I do on my phone are e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and a bit of the Web. So, during the next 24 hours, I'll be putting the Kin through its paces and reporting back on what I experience.

I'll be trying out the Kin Two, the longer, higher-end model with an 8-megapixel camera and the ability to record HD video. James Martin/CNET

I got my hands on the Kin Two Tuesday morning and have spent much of the day getting it ready for a trial run, making sure it is set up with all of my accounts. So far, I have Twitter, Windows Live, Facebook, and my work e-mail all running.

One of the first things one notices about the Kin is just how different it is from other phones. I think it is only fair to give it some time to grow on me before I share my impressions. But I'll be back soon with a full report.

In the mean time, check out our Kin review from CNET's Bonnie Cha. And for those who want the basics, Verizon is announcing the Kin One will sell for $49 after a $100 mail-in rebate and the Kin Two will sell for $99 after rebate. Both phones will be available online May 6 and in stores on May 13.