Instead of iPhone: Netbook + Kodak/Motorola ZN5 camera/phone
Instead of buying an iPhone, I’m seriously thinking about a two-device alternative: 1) a netbook, such as the Dell Mini 9, plus 2) the Kodak/Motorola ZN5 camera that’s also a mobile phone.
The iPhone and many the competing web phones require design compromises that severely limit your web viewing experience. In contrast, the Dell Mini 9 netbook has a decent size screen, and OK physical keyboard, and plenty of non-volatile storage.
The Kodak/Motorola ZN5 is a very good 5 megapixel camera that happens to also serve as a mobile phone. For row the ZN5 is only available from T-Mobile, but if it’s as good as reported one of the mainstream US mobile service providers will offer something similar.
If cost is no object, the Nokia N97 is another brilliant camera as mobile phone. However, the NZ5 is only $99 with a two year contract, while the Nokia is expected to cost well north of $500.
Before I get your hate mail, I agree, if you are willing to accept the compromises, the iPhone or Android G1 or RIM Storm are all very nice gadgets. None of them offer a decent camera, and — be honest — web viewing, while useable, SUCKS on a tiny screen. Those screens, while much bigger (with better resolution) than the traditional mobile phone, are still too small for a COMFORTABLE internet experience.