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AT&T R225: It's missing what?!

The AT&T R225 is inexplicably missing some key features, but the $15 off-contract price tag is hard to argue with.

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Content strategy, team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Samsung, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Watch this: AT&T R225

The AT&T R225 was never destined for greatness, but it sure would come a lot closer if it didn't get in its own way.

The recipe for its self-defeat lies in the phone's lack of a volume rocker, zero Bluetooth support, and an absolutely terrible speakerphone, at least on our testing device. A small screen size and low pixel resolution don't help.

However, the R225 Go Phone isn't all bad, and for just $15 without a contract, we wouldn't take it out of the running for those seeking a very simple, very cheap phone. Call quality was good, after all. The phone also has AT&T's communications apps bundled in, so it's possible to send e-mails and instant messages.

Depending on your needs, the R225 could still attract your interest, though we suspect most people will find other handsets more satisfying.

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