Motorola D&G RAZR V3i review: Motorola D&G RAZR V3i

Design
Design? Design is everything in this phone, darlings. Given the D&G V3i is identical in its feature-set to the standard V3i, this review will focus on the several designer modifications that transform it into an haute couture status symbol. For a comprehensive look at the V3i's features and performance, check out the original review.

Now, onto what makes the D&G model unique. Firstly, and most obviously, the whole thing -- inside and out -- has been given a matte gold finish. "DOLCE & GABBANA" is embossed in the fashion label's signature font on the back of the phone, and just in case you forget the name by the time you open the clamshell and power up the device, a throaty, very manly voice purrs "Dolce and Gabbana".

More D&G branding is to be found on the wallpaper of both the internal and external displays, which is -- surprise! -- gold with a large black "D&G". There are also three Dolce & Gabbana-inspired ringtones to alert you when your concierge calls to confirm the bulk beluga order for that party on Saturday night.

As with any style icon, there are co-ordinated accessories, including a very chic black wiping cloth to rid the phone of the smudges caused by inadvertent contact with filthy commoners. A gold D&G charm, which attaches to the phone and jangles around like coins in a Chanel pocket, rounds out the ensemble.

The original RAZR (or V3) debuted in late 2004, meaning this design has been kicking around for almost two years. Motorola continues to capitalise on the popularity of its slim and sexy silhouette, recently announcing a new line-up of new yet familiar-looking phones; the KRZR, RIZR and another RAZR. But in looking at the D&G model, we're beginning to get a bit OVR the whole thing. We were mightily impressed back in 2004, but, having seen a wealth of innovative phone shapes and features in the interim, the wow factor has dimmed somewhat, and the menus are beginning to look dated. Plus, the colours totally clash with the gold casing, and not in a groovy avant-garde Marc Jacobs catwalk neo-grunge kind of way.

Whether you'll covet the D&G V3i depends on how many designer labels feature in your wardrobe. If you want the cachet of having an attention-getting, limited-edition phone plastered with high-end fashion branding, this model will make you happy. While the V3i is a solid phone with a lot of cool features, we wouldn't spend AU$900 on this baby. But given we're more likely to wear KMart trackie dacks than a D&G dress, we're not exactly in the target market.

Optional accessories
Any fashion devotee knows that accessories can make or break an outfit. Optional extras for the D&G V3i all come in co-ordinated gold, and include a leather case (AU$79.95), stereo headset (AU$59.95) and a folding Bluetooth earpiece (AU$199.95).