T-Mobile Shadow Revamped as a Smart Phone

— -- The T-Mobile Shadow is getting a smart phone makeover for 2009. The new Shadow will run Windows Mobile 6.1, be HotSpot-enabled for use with T-Mobile Unlimited HotSpot Calling service, and have access to Wi-Fi networks.

The Shadow has a nice balance of entertainment and enterprise features, including a music and video player, pre-loaded multimedia content, a mobile version of Microsoft Office for document viewing and editing, and Microsoft Outlook. The Shadow's 1.6-inch screen, however, is disappointing. I imagine it would be very difficult to review a long document or watch a video on a screen that size.

The HTC-manufactured phone retains the candybar slider design found on its predecessor, but comes in two new colors: White mint and black burgundy. It is quite slim and light, measuring 4.3 by 2.4 by 0.5 inches and weighing 3.9 ounces. The Shadow is will be available in T-Mobile retail stores and online later this month.

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