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LG CU500 (released)

(Click here to view the original thread with full colors/images)

Posted by: .7

orginally posted by: swiftbmx

Just uploaded:





Keep in mind, I do not own the phone, stumbled upon these pics awhile ago by accident.


Release date-------------------------

Approved?: YES

Target Acceptance: 6/2/2006

APPROVED 6-20-06 (should be released in following weeks)

RELEASED 7-14-06 in most 3G COR locations

Price---------------------------------------

$249.99 no commitment
$199.99 1YR
$149.99 2YR

additional $50 MIR

Specifications-----------------------
Technology Generation:
3G
Features:
Device Dimensions (L/W/H, Volume) Standard : 96.5 x 49.6 x 19.3 mm
Device Weight (g) 92.5g with Battery
Screen Size (pixels) 176X220
Screen Type (Color, Grayscale, B&W) 262K Color TFT LCD
GSM Band Support (850,900,1800,1900) 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS Band Support: (2100, 1900, 1700, 1900, 850, 800) 850, 1900
Multislot Configuration ((E)GPRS, n x m) EDGE Class10 (4x2)
HSDPA Category Yes
TTY Support (Y/N) Yes
Enhanced Network Selection: (yes, no) Yes
PBCCH Support (Y/N) Yes
Terminal Assisted GPS (Y/N) No
Enhanced Operator Name String (Y/N) Yes
SMS Over GPRS Support (Y/N) Yes
DARP/SAIC (yes, no) No
Network Assisted Cell Change (yes, no) No
Extended Uplink TBF (yes, no) Yes
Extended Dynamic Allocation (yes, no) Yes
Baseband Chipset Vendor Qualcomm
RF Chipset Vendor Qualcomm



source: Phone Arena

last 4 pics source: Mobiledia


Posted by: .7

Due to the length of the last thread it has been archived. Now that the phone is being sold in COR locations please post your impressions and questions here.

link to pre-release discussion:

http://www.howardforums.com/showthread.php?t=892813


Posted by: iamthedudeman

Does anyone have a timetable of when the phone will appear on the premier site. I looked for it there for purchase and there are no 3g phones to be found.

thanks


Posted by: asianinvasion8

Quote:
Originally Posted by iamthedudeman
Does anyone have a timetable of when the phone will appear on the premier site. I looked for it there for purchase and there are no 3g phones to be found.

thanks


I was waiting on that too, but I decided to not wait and go into the store, and he looked up my employee discounts and gave it to me there. Might wanna try that.


Posted by: asianinvasion8

For everyone that has theirs. I just want to make sure I have the same firmware as everyone. Can anyone check to see if theirs matches.

DM Client : 1.1
Hardware: 1.2
Firmware: 1.0
Software: ..Jun-04-2006-cw-us

Thanks


Posted by: wakenbake

i ordered mine today from houston, there sending it to me overnight. They have 10 available, i mean 9. i was eligible for upgrade and the price was 200 with 50 dollar mail in rebate. I can't wait for this phone tomorrow!


Posted by: Demodave

What is the size of the headphone jack? Is it standard size?

Also, how about the media player software? Will the streaming audio only do Cingular branded music sites? Or could I also stream any standard MP3 Shoutcast based site such as SOMAFM.COM or RADIOPARADISE.COM?

If it does this; and the reception is at least equal to my SE S710a, I'll pick one up this weekend!!


Posted by: jyalexop2003

I use this extensively. Hard to believe no voice dialing..


Posted by: jbzcar

Got mine this morning! I added a third line to our family plan to get the 2 year price. After dropping insuarance from my line since the CU500 is not insurable anyways, it is only a $6 + tax a month difference. The no contract price is $279.99 and the 2 year is $179.99 with a $50 MIR. I know I'll spend more than the $100 for the 2 year contract, but it fits my budget much better in the short term to do it this way.

On to the phone:

The screen is MUCH nicer. The whites are actually white, not yellowish. The speaker for playing music is louder and clearer.


Posted by: 91RS

I just searched eBay and there's a thread ending in 2 hours that is bid to $1300. Haha.


Posted by: hitechy

So I'm guessing the phone will be on the premier site Monday. I'll be using my upgrade on there I guess since I get one every 5 months. I'm nervous about the price though. Why does everyone keep paying different prices?


Posted by: kevink1

Does Cingular give you problems if you go into an out of market store and try to upgrade to a new phone?

I know that ATTWS (a different company, obviously) didn't seem to like to handle out of market customers. I went in once to upgrade, and was told they couldn't offer me anything but the out of contract price, even though I was out of contract at the time.

I may be going to Dallas within the next month, and was considering buying the phone if possible. Figure I might go with the one year price. I don't know if a 2 year contract buys me enough to go since I don't know if I would qualify for the $50 rebate since I already have MediaWorks.


Posted by: ranphi

Quote:
Originally Posted by hitechy
So I'm guessing the phone will be on the premier site Monday. I'll be using my upgrade on there I guess since I get one every 5 months. I'm nervous about the price though. Why does everyone keep paying different prices?


Prices for Cingular phones vary by market/geographic location. Cingular phones do not have an "across the board" price, so customers will find diff prices depending upon where they live.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

I can't wait to get home and play with my phone; only 13mins to go!!!!!


Posted by: jbzcar

What the heck, my CU320 is refusing to do a Copy All To SIM for my contacts.

I had to enter them manually into my CU500.

Oh, and lack of voice dial again is very dissapointing.


Posted by: Ihavenosignal

Voice dialing is so old...


Posted by: JR1

Well tell us is the reception good? Does it come in good in 3G and no 3G areas? How is the handoff?


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by JR1
Well tell us is the reception good? Does it come in good in 3G and no 3G areas? How is the handoff?


It seems to be just as good if not slightly better than my CU320 so far. I'll be able to tell more when I drive to work tomorrow.

Oh, and one thing I really like is that there is an E icon when you are in EDGE instead of just a G. I only know because 3G is kinda weak in my room and it will switch back and forth between WCDMA and GSM.


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ihavenosignal
Voice dialing is so old...


Sorry, you are incorrect. It is a very handy feature.


Posted by: b0stonirishguy

OK, I guess I'm one of the unlucky ones. I bought one this morning and upgraded my SIM to a 3G one from a 32K. The rep told me it would take a few hours to activate. Well, 6 hours later, I went back to the store because it still wasn't working. The rep I had originally talked to was gone for the day by that time.

The one I did speak to called CS to look into the issue. He said there's a "billing issue" error that's keeping the 3G SIM from being activated, and that Tier 2 was going to have to look into it. The estimated date of resolving this issue was 7/20!!! I was totally BS, but didn't go off on the guy because he seemed to do all that he could. I mentioned that I had my account provisoined for GAIT, and he said that was something that CS brought up when he was on the line with them. It could be fixed anytime before 7/20, or on 7/20 itself.

My old 32K SIM will work in the CU500 (and it gives me a 3G icon), but this is something that Cingular needs to address when/if the majority of customers are upgraded. Very disappointing.


Posted by: dcdttu

Ok, love the phone, but I ran into an issue with it (just bought it and had the issue in 4 minutes...)

I downloaded Google Maps on it and when the program starts, there's only two network options: 1. Always Ask and 2. Never Allow. There's not a Ask just once...

This means that every time I do ANYTHING on Google Maps (or any non-cingular app?) the phone prompts me for internet access. I can't change it in the Permissions either.... It's REALLY annoying that everytime I move the map it is nagging me....

Any thoughts? Does the CU320 do this?


Posted by: Demodave

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ihavenosignal
How am I incorrect? It is hella old and no one uses it. Its a worthless feature. Get over it you tool.


Please don't take this off-topic and turn it in to a flame war!!

I really am interested in user reviews on this new phone; and to find out more about the streaming and media capabilities as I have already asked about in this thread. Nobody wants to read a debate on the importance of basic features in this thread. Thank you!!


Posted by: stanleyl

Quote:
Originally Posted by dcdttu
Ok, love the phone, but I ran into an issue with it (just bought it and had the issue in 4 minutes...)

I downloaded Google Maps on it and when the program starts, there's only two network options: 1. Always Ask and 2. Never Allow. There's not a Ask just once...

This means that every time I do ANYTHING on Google Maps (or any non-cingular app?) the phone prompts me for internet access. I can't change it in the Permissions either.... It's REALLY annoying that everytime I move the map it is nagging me....

Any thoughts? Does the CU320 do this?


Just tried it on my CU320. It has "Yes, Ask Once per Session" besides the ones that you have listed. After I choose that, Google Maps will not ask me for network permission again until re-launching of the app.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by asianinvasion8
For everyone that has theirs. I just want to make sure I have the same firmware as everyone. Can anyone check to see if theirs matches.

DM Client : 1.1
Hardware: 1.2
Firmware: 1.0
Software: ..Jun-04-2006-cw-us

Thanks


I just got back from the store and picked up a CU500 for myself, my brother, and my cousin. The three of our phones all have the same firmware, and it does, in fact match yours.

For those with a lot of questions about the phone, I can give a quick overview of what I've gotten to experience so far:

-It's very solid. It's got a nice weight to it, and it flips open smoothly.

-The UI is clean and very user-friendly. This is the first LG I've ever used, and I've not had a problem getting anything accomplished.

-The screen is crisp, clear, and bright. I know the information we've had thus far says it's 65k, but it just looks too good to be anything but 252k!

-Voice quality so far has been excellent. I haven't gotten a chance to venture into a non-3G area, so I can't comment on the quality of sound on the regular network or how the phone handles the handoff between the two

-Anything having to do with the internet is blazing fast: MMS, streaming audio and video all move at lightning speed. The latter two are very clear and loud, as well.

-A lot of people have been asking about the size of the headphone jack, and it IS NOT the standard size (3.5mm)- it's a bit smaller, so I'm gonna go out on a limb here and say it's 2.5mm

-Finally, the price- here in Atlanta (I went to the Atlantic Station store and bought 3 of their 5, :lol, the retail price was something between $320-329. However, I was able to get a %45 Business Premier discount, bringing the price of one phone to down $178.75 before tax. Not bad, imho!

That's all I've got for now, but if anyone's got any questions, feel free to PM me or post one!

Regards,
Janson


Posted by: iamthedudeman

Called premier. Will be on the site Monday!

How about some reviews on the phone, build quality, reception, screen quality, transfer of pictures to PC and files by usb,etc. It would be much appreciated. I don't know to wait for the startrek or this phone, undecided. HSDPA is very appealing, since the smartphone and regular phone features are so blurred now. I still have my 8125 so I am okay. Discuss.


Posted by: wpbear

the phone is on the regular cingular but not premier. The cost is $179-$50 instant with no mail in rebate, total $129.

Good news for me the premier site says I can get an upgrade so it will save me money when the premier site launches this phone!!!!


Posted by: dcdttu

So far build and sound are amazing. It sounds like a stereo in your car on speakerphone... and off speakerphone it sounds great. I'm really frustrated with the non-cingular apps not having a 'ask once per session' option though.

Love the phone. Receptions seems good.

I'll test and report fully tomorrow after a night with it.


Posted by: iamthedudeman

Quote:
Originally Posted by dcdttu
So far build and sound are amazing. It sounds like a stereo in your car on speakerphone... and off speakerphone it sounds great. I'm really frustrated with the non-cingular apps not having a 'ask once per session' option though.

Love the phone. Receptions seems good.

I'll test and report fully tomorrow after a night with it.



Thanks bro.


Posted by: hitechy

Do you guys like how it looks? It looks kind of ugly in pictures.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by hitechy
Do you guys like how it looks? It looks kind of ugly in pictures.


I like it a lot... I used to agree that the phone was a little funky looking, but it's grown on me already... the size really is just right, unlike the RAZR, which was too wide for it's thickness and height.


Posted by: clydefrog

we need pics boys! User ones


Posted by: halusha

Any reason to get this phone instead of a RAZR in a non-HSDPA area?


Posted by: hitechy

Quote:
Originally Posted by wpbear
the phone is on the regular cingular but not premier. The cost is $179-$50 instant with no mail in rebate, total $129.

Good news for me the premier site says I can get an upgrade so it will save me money when the premier site launches this phone!!!!


What zip code are you using??


Posted by: cjmedina

look what i found
http://onlinestorez.cingular.com/ce...QXCSNB4R0GVCFFA
and
http://onlinestorez.cingular.com/ce...0167&WT.svl=mod


Posted by: Ihavenosignal

Quote:
Originally Posted by jansonm
I like it a lot... I used to agree that the phone was a little funky looking, but it's grown on me already... the size really is just right, unlike the RAZR, which was too wide for it's thickness and height.


Too Wide LOL sure...


Posted by: cjmedina

to those that have it already is mobitv/radio preinstalled and if so how does it look i tried it on my cu320 and it looked real good hoping it looks the same or better, i cant wait intil tommorow.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Here we go,

Exterior: Phone is rock solid and has a very good feel to it. Quickest way to describe it is to compare it to the Blade. However, it does not have the fugly round edges like the Blade. LG sort of did a compromise, while there is no lip at the bottom of the phone like there is on the Razr the outside is designed to give the appearance of having a lip. I think it's neat! External display shows: time, day, date, and everything else! The hinge on this thing is wicked nice, it's very smooth and stealthy looking. I didnt think I would like the scroll camera but it's actually a nice touch. Also, there is about a millimeter of space above the camera when flipped open, for whatever reason that just makes it look that much more sweet when opened. Keypad is done nicely, didn't realize how much I missed spaced buttons(the buttons on both sides of the d-pad will irk you however.) Very funny to see a Qualcomm sticker on a GSM phone, but that just lets you know you've purchased the real deal.Too, I like the fact there is Cingular branding all over this thing. That's it for the exterior.

Screen: The screen is very sharp and does 11lines of info. The internal and external are very bright!

Phone Book: I was so paranoid that I wouldn't be able to assign ringtones to individuals as this was the case on previous lg's, but you can. Everything else is pretty standard.

Speed: The phone is very fast, but I can't commit on the 3g (I know right) because I'm right on the outside of the boundaries and haven't been in a 3g area YET!!! I'm sooooooo pissed because I was hoping some magical way that the signal would reach me but it does not. All I can do is hope for continued expansion. However, it does seem as if somehow the underlying HSDPA gives more speed somehow to EDGE, so if you're not in a 3g area I still recommend getting this phone.

I'm to tired to really write the kind of review I want to, but I wanted to give the community something, I'll be off and on all nite. So, please feel free to ask other questions I will write any such answers in review format!!!!!!!!!!!


Posted by: .7

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ihavenosignal
How am I incorrect? It is hella old and no one uses it. Its a worthless feature. Get over it you tool.


I would be careful how you treat other members in here.

Thats a warning.


Posted by: jbzcar

Oh, for other people in fringe 3G areas, the phone can be put into 2G only mode via the engineering menu. The codes to access it are the same as the CU320 and are in the Agents/Employees subforum.


Posted by: bobolito

Ihavenosignal, next time you flame someone, besides having no signal you'll also have no access to this forum!

Second warning!


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Update: the Cingular Video is freakin AWESOME, it doesn't even break stride while loading, which takes all of about 6-7 seconds, and guess what I'm only in an edge area!!!! Dude I hope the expand atlanta a little more, cause this is going to be sick!!! Finally, I can kiss the comcast cable modem service GOODBYE!!!!


Posted by: Bob Bob

The screen is definitely 65K, it doesn't compare to my s710a


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Here you go good people's!!!!!!!!

[IMG][/IMG]

[IMG][/IMG]

[IMG][/IMG]


Posted by: f1000

Has anyone been able to tether their LG CU500 to a computer and browse at HSDPA speeds?

BTW, the price to upgrade to this phone in D.C. is $129.99 with a two-year contract.


Posted by: gmissett

I'm in the market for this phone but it doesn't show up in my area. I'm Fairfax, VA (22031) and I see the ZX-10 still. Was at a store today before I even saw this was changed to "released" so I didn't even think to ask.

Side note - one guy at the Cingular store told me the Samsung D807 had 3G...I understand EDGE is *technically* 3G, but boo.


Posted by: f1000

Quote:
Originally Posted by gmissett
I'm in the market for this phone but it doesn't show up in my area. I'm Fairfax, VA (22031) and I see the ZX-10 still. Was at a store today before I even saw this was changed to "released" so I didn't even think to ask.

In View, choose Video/3G. You'll see both the ZX10 and the LG CU500.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by f1000
Has anyone been able to tether their LG CU500 to a computer and browse at HSDPA speeds?

BTW, the price to upgrade to this phone in D.C. is $129.99 with a two-year contract.


I've tethered but unfortunately my house falls just short of a 3g signal, but it still is bloody fast. Can't wait till they add another tower or two!


Posted by: cjmedina

Wirelessly posted (whatever the next lines says: Nokia9300/6.01 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 Mozilla/4.0 compatible; MSIE 5.0; Series80/2.0 UP.Link/6.3.0.0.0)

hey 1977 are those pics taken with the phone?


Posted by: gmissett

Quote:
Originally Posted by f1000
In View, choose Video/3G. You'll see both the ZX10 and the LG CU500.

Fantastic. Appreciated greatly. Sorry if this was addressed earlier in the thread...I just moved and I'm kind of run ragged!


Posted by: RGEER

When will this phone be avaliable in the upstate NY- Albany area? How would I go about getting one?

What is the pricing on this phone?

edit: I should have been more specific:what is the pricing structure:
2yr:
1yr:
No-Contract:


Posted by: Bob Bob

Quote:
Originally Posted by RGEER
What is the pricing on this phone?


With my Premiere discount I was able to get the phone for 149.99. And with the 50 dollar rebate brings the phone down to 99.99


Posted by: 91RS

If I can get this phone for less than $80, I'll be very tempted to buy it. Very.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by cjmedina
Wirelessly posted (whatever the next lines says: Nokia9300/6.01 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 Mozilla/4.0 compatible; MSIE 5.0; Series80/2.0 UP.Link/6.3.0.0.0)

hey 1977 are those pics taken with the phone?


Yeah, I'll try to post some daytime ones tomorrow!!!!!!!


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Great question for those with this phone in 3G areas, does the phone still buzz when next to speakers or the tv or whatever? Supposedly this was not to happen anymore being that CDMA is in the mix!


Posted by: maverick22

How's the audio (ingoing/outgoing), menu speed, and can you customize the external screen pic?

Also, can you play music with the phone closed (thru external speakers) and how do mp3's sound as ringtones?

Thanks in advance.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by maverick22
How's the audio (ingoing/outgoing), menu speed, and can you customize the external screen pic?

Also, can you play music with the phone closed (thru external speakers) and how do mp3's sound as ringtones?

Thanks in advance.


IMHO LG'S audio quality is excellent on both ends of the phone. Menu speed is blazing! Yes, this is a feature I like very much on the LG's is that you can have DIFFERENT pictures on the internal/external screens.

Yes, I'm actually listening to mp3's with the phone closed right now. You can scroll the playlist with the phone closed as well too!

Mp3's sound good but not as good as SE phones but they still sound darn good!!

Who's next to get their questions served up like a scoop of ice cream???


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Not to be overlooked, but you can also minimize the mp3 player and multi-task with the phone while listening to music!!!!!!!!


Posted by: s2kvietboi

Well this phone is okay. Not a phone to get all excited about i had it and kinda liked it its okay. Well I sold it on ebay for 1,200.00 ( Not a Typo). Made me alot of money! here are some pic's:







. I have the ZX20 right now and IT ROCKS!!!!! love the phone ill post pic if you guys dont believe me


Posted by: .7

I've used it guys and I even have to admit that for the first time in 6 years, I would own an LG.

Its nice guys, really nice, and HSDPA is a dream on HBO mobile with full episodes.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
I have the ZX20 right now and IT ROCKS!!!!! love the phone ill post pic if you guys dont believe me



The zx20 has nothing on this phone, it's the same fugly phone as the zx10 but with hsdpa. What I really think is that you came on this thread with the intention of stealing some of this phones thunder!?!?


Posted by: maverick22

Are the things on the external screen very visible (time, battery, signal strength, etc.)?

I know you probably haven't got to make many calls on it yet, but how is the reception thus far?

Thanks for the quick reply by the way.


Posted by: s2kvietboi

phones good but not as you guys say , i got bored of it. i guess for the price i paid it was too much. i might get it back. dont know yet. i just wish it was Slimer


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by maverick22
Are the things on the external screen very visible (time, battery, signal strength, etc.)?

I know you probably haven't got to make many calls on it yet, but how is the reception thus far?

Thanks for the quick reply by the way.


Ex. yesterday I owned a SE w600i and when I connected it to cingular communications manager to tether with it got like -78Dbs or so

BUT

Today when I tether the cu500, I got like -69dbs

So to answer your question the reception is EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!


Posted by: s2kvietboi

yea this phone has good Reception


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by maverick22
Are the things on the external screen very visible (time, battery, signal strength, etc.)?

I know you probably haven't got to make many calls on it yet, but how is the reception thus far?

Thanks for the quick reply by the way.


Items on both the external and internal screen are very easy to see. I think it's espescially important that the external screen be easy to read because it's smaller, and LG's done a good job- there's no problem there!

The date/ time can be displayed in a number of ways (5, i think) both inside and out, so there's sure to be something that'll suit your tastes.

I've only made 3 or 4 calls so far, but I can tell you that the sound quality is great, as is the signal, although I did drop one call as I was driving through a tunnel. No big deal, though...


Posted by: maverick22

man, i'm gonna have to check this phone out tomorrow---thanks a lot for the replies guys


Posted by: iamthedudeman

Quote:
Originally Posted by s2kvietboi
Well this phone is okay. Not a phone to get all excited about i had it and kinda liked it its okay. Well I sold it on ebay for 1,200.00 ( Not a Typo). Made me alot of money! here are some pic's:







. I have the ZX20 right now and IT ROCKS!!!!! love the phone ill post pic if you guys dont believe me


I've seen your ad, way to go on the cash thing, if you can collect it. The person that won your auction had 0 feedback and was from may mayalisa. I know how that goes on e'bay. They want you to send the phone for free, i hate those people that bid and don't pay. Good luck on getting your cash.


Posted by: dcdttu

Has anyone else that has this phone attempted to download a program like Opera Mini or Google Local and see if it asks for permission to access the web over and over during your session? I'm hoping it is just my phone and if I take it back the new one won't do that.

When you open up a program, it prompts you for network access (like any other phone). Problem is, you only get two options: do not allow or allow one time... when you click allow, it continuously prompts you whether it can access the internet until you close the application down. VERY ANNOYING...

Can someone try this and let me know whether it is just my phone or a glitch in the software overall? I think it's important, seeing that 3G is all about the data, and this thing will not work with non-Cingular apps!

Thanks...


Posted by: Dr. John

Can standard .mp3's taken from my PC be used as ringtones? Or do they have to be cut down to a certain file size or bitrate to work as a ringtone (like on the Samsung d807)? FWIW, I rip & encode all my .mp3's in a pretty large file-size VBR format, and I'm just wondering if the CU500 will be able to use these files.

Damn I want this phone. Unfortunately, 3G isn't up yet in Cincinnati, so I might have trouble getting the phone. Anyone know if a COR store in a non 3G area would be able to order one for me?


Posted by: CoolCSI

Can I order this phone from C.S., even thu Minneapolis is not 3G ready?


Posted by: zoovision

Can someone that owns a CU500 in 3G coverage test our streaming video site? Access to the videos are free and we would like to know if the CU500 works with our format etc. We don't live in 3G coverage so your help would be great, thanks in advance!

Visit http://www.zoovision.com/mobile.html


Posted by: puckchump

I got mine yesterday. I signed a 2 year deal last week and got a free razr. I went to another cingular store to get the CU500. Played stupid with no recept for the razr and returned it. So i had to pay 30 dollar difference for the LG but I got a 50 dollar rebate so i cingular payed me 20 to buy the phone. Service is very good but I just switched from nextel so anything would be very good. Also you can assign ringtones of the sd card. I have been using 30 second mp3 clips at 128kbs. There is a limit on the length but I dont know what it is. The limit is my biggest complaint. I wish i could just use my full length mp3s but other then that it is awesome


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by zoovision
Can someone that owns a CU500 in 3G coverage test our streaming video site? Access to the videos are free and we would like to know if the CU500 works with our format etc. We don't live in 3G coverage so your help would be great, thanks in advance!

Visit http://www.zoovision.com/mobile.html


Works just fine.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by dcdttu
Has anyone else that has this phone attempted to download a program like Opera Mini or Google Local and see if it asks for permission to access the web over and over during your session? I'm hoping it is just my phone and if I take it back the new one won't do that.

When you open up a program, it prompts you for network access (like any other phone). Problem is, you only get two options: do not allow or allow one time... when you click allow, it continuously prompts you whether it can access the internet until you close the application down. VERY ANNOYING...

Can someone try this and let me know whether it is just my phone or a glitch in the software overall? I think it's important, seeing that 3G is all about the data, and this thing will not work with non-Cingular apps!

Thanks...


I did download Opera Mini, and it DOES as for permission to access the network every time you click on a link... I don't think it's a glitch, per se. I kinda see it just as an oversight, but I have to believe it'll be fixed soon.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr. John
Can standard .mp3's taken from my PC be used as ringtones? Or do they have to be cut down to a certain file size or bitrate to work as a ringtone (like on the Samsung d807)? FWIW, I rip & encode all my .mp3's in a pretty large file-size VBR format, and I'm just wondering if the CU500 will be able to use these files.

Damn I want this phone. Unfortunately, 3G isn't up yet in Cincinnati, so I might have trouble getting the phone. Anyone know if a COR store in a non 3G area would be able to order one for me?


Yes, I was able to download a full-length mp3 (6.8mb, 192k) to my phone and listen to it without any problems or having to convert it. The only caveat was that with that song on the internal memory, I was unable to take even one picture. I think a memory card is gonna be a necessity!


Posted by: ranphi

I'm bummed that this phone doesn't have a standard/3.5mm headphone jack. I was thinking about getting this phone, but now I'm not so sure.

Does this phone come with a headphone converter by any chance, so you can use 3.5mm headphones with the phone?

Also, has anyone listened to music with headphones on this phone yet? If so, how is the sound quality?

What about the music software on the phone? How are it's features for playing/managing music? Can you create/edit/delete playlists using just the phone or do you have to use a PC to do this? What happens if you're listening to a song via headphones on the phone and you get an incoming call? Does the phone automatically pause the music to let you answer the call and then resume the music when you end the conversation?

Thanks to anyone who can answer my questions!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by ranphi
I'm bummed that this phone doesn't have a standard/3.5mm headphone jack. I was thinking about getting this phone, but now I'm not so sure.

Does this phone come with a headphone converter by any chance, so you can use 3.5mm headphones with the phone?

Also, has anyone listened to music with headphones on this phone yet? If so, how is the sound quality?

What about the music software on the phone? How are it's features for playing/managing music? Can you create/edit/delete playlists using just the phone or do you have to use a PC to do this? What happens if you're listening to a song via headphones on the phone and you get an incoming call? Does the phone automatically pause the music to let you answer the call and then resume the music when you end the conversation?

Thanks to anyone who can answer my questions!


Yes you can buy a 2.5 -> 3.5 adapter.

You are able to do full playlist management on the handset, just like the CU320. Yes, it will pause the song if you recieve and incoming call.


Posted by: ranphi

Thanks, jbzcar, for answering my questions. Too bad the phone doesn't come with a headphone converter.

Of course, it does support A2DP so maybe one would be better off just using a pair of A2DP headphones. Wireless headphones sound awfully appealing to me, but I don't own any/have never used any, so I don't know how well they work or how good the sound quality is.

What about the sound quality when listening to music on this phone via headphones plugged into the headphone jack? Anyone care to comment on how it sounds? Is it better/same/worse than an iPod?


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by hitechy
What zip code are you using??

zip code
22060


Posted by: bigmike20

Does the phone come w/ a transflash card?I'm thinking of buying a 1gb card for it anyway, but will it be compatible and any suggestions on a website for cheap price.?


Posted by: OtotheZ

omgomgomg i want it...




Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by bigmike20
Does the phone come w/ a transflash card?I'm thinking of buying a 1gb card for it anyway, but will it be compatible and any suggestions on a website for cheap price.?


Comes with a 64mbs card!


Posted by: WirelessAndy

For the first time EVER, an LG has caught my attention. But I'm wary.

I've been reading here that the "reception" is excellent. Could someone test this out by taking the LG to a tough RF spot (where you know most calls don't do well) and see how a phone call holds up? I don't mean "bars", either!

Where I'm living now, I ONLY get reception if I'm on the top floor. It stinks. Currently, only my Nokias do OK on the lower floors.

I have zero faith in Cingular LG's. But carrying around a Nokia 6310i does get kind of old sometimes. I'd really appreciate a Nit Picking RF Assessment (not "bars"!)

Thank you, my Nit Picking Deputies!


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by ranphi
Thanks, jbzcar, for answering my questions. Too bad the phone doesn't come with a headphone converter.

Of course, it does support A2DP so maybe one would be better off just using a pair of A2DP headphones. Wireless headphones sound awfully appealing to me, but I don't own any/have never used any, so I don't know how well they work or how good the sound quality is.

What about the sound quality when listening to music on this phone via headphones plugged into the headphone jack? Anyone care to comment on how it sounds? Is it better/same/worse than an iPod?


Well I can't say if it sounds as good as an Ipod, but I just got rid of my w600i to get this thing and unfortunately it doesn't sound as good. It still sounds good, just not as good as my w600i!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by cingular1977
Comes with a 64mbs card!


Mine didn't...


Posted by: Bob Bob

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
Mine didn't...


mine didn't either


Posted by: jbzcar

WTF I can't tether!!!

My laptop says the only service the phone is broadcasting is BT Serial Port.

I am able to connect using my USB cable, though. IT HAULS ***!!! 725 kbps down and 339 kbps up!!!!


Posted by: bigmike20

anyone try yet to use MediaNet on this phone in a 3g area?How fast is it really?Does it reach the acclaimed 1.8mbps?


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
WTF I can't tether!!!

My laptop says the only service the phone is broadcasting is BT Serial Port.

I am able to connect using my USB cable, though. IT HAULS ***!!! 725 kbps down and 339 kbps up!!!!


Damn that pisses me off, but good for you!!! I'm just sooooo short of the 3g coverage, I think I'll call right now to inquire!


Posted by: bigmike20

Also so No Video calling! like previously rumored.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by cingular1977
Comes with a 64mbs card!


Yours came with a 64mb card!? Before i picked up the phone, i thought it would, too... but no such luck. Is it hidden somewhere in the packaging!?


Posted by: Bloom

I picked up this phone yesterday at Cingular in Downtown Portland, and admittedly have mixed feelings about it. Yeah, the whole lack of voice dialing thing is REALLY strange to me too. I like the inside screen, the stereo sound, and the prospect of A2DP (just need to pick up a stereo bluetooth headset now), but the lack of voice dialing AND the whole lack of Mac support bugs me.

The manual says that you can play AAC songs in the music player, but so far I've found that not to be the case. All my music in iTunes is in AAC format, so naturally, I thought they would play after doing a simple drag and drop operation. Unfortunately, the songs only show up in the sounds folder where all the ringtones are, but not in the MP3 player when they're transferred in AAC format (at least for me). I experimented by converting the songs from AAC to MP3 on my Mac, dragged them over, and voila, they showed up in the MP3 player. My excitement faded quickly though because even with tracks encoded in MP3 form, the player doesn't read Artist or Album name, and you can't manually enter that information. Perhaps this isn't the case if you import the songs from a PC, but after trying a zillion different attempts last night, I could not get the additional MP3 tag information to import from my Mac. GRRRRRRR!

As for the actual "phone" itself, finally, Cingular has a phone that has excellent earpiece volume. For lack of a better explanation, it cranks at the highest volume setting. One strange caveat though is that I noticed sometimes the volume would fade in and fade out. Happened a few times, especially when the other line you were calling was ringing. I sure hope it isn't a problem like LG had with their original batch of VX-8100 back in the Verizon days. That was hell waiting for a software upgrade.

The menus are nice, although I think the flash UI that LG is using on their newer Verizon phones is nicer. I haven't really played much with the video/news clips or streaming radio, so I can't comment about that.

All in all, I like the phone, mainly for the earpiece volume. The lack of voice dialing is a drag. Even LG's lower end phones on Verizon have voice dialing, so I don't understand why they give us GSM folks the short end of the stick. Oh, and as feature rich as this phone is by Cingular standards, it pales in comparison to the forthcoming LG Chocolate phone for Verizon. Whatever. I hope Cingular starts to get more aggressive with their upcoming phones.

Hopefully I can figure out how to get the full MP3 tag information to display, or perhaps another Mac user can. Either way, I'll be interested to hear how other people feel about this phone.

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
What the heck, my CU320 is refusing to do a Copy All To SIM for my contacts.

I had to enter them manually into my CU500.

Oh, and lack of voice dial again is very dissapointing.



Posted by: s2kvietboi

Quote:
Originally Posted by iamthedudeman
I've seen your ad, way to go on the cash thing, if you can collect it. The person that won your auction had 0 feedback and was from may mayalisa. I know how that goes on e'bay. They want you to send the phone for free, i hate those people that bid and don't pay. Good luck on getting your cash.

HAHA lol i know, i havnt been Scamed like that yet. i knew hewas fakin it. so i listed it agian and SOLD it for 1200.00 GREAT price to have it FIRST. i got this phone about a month and a half ago used it on a daily bases and didnt really like it as i like the zx20 but still a great phone!


Posted by: cjmedina

Wirelessly posted (whatever the next lines says: LG-CU500 Obigo/WAP2.0 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 UP.Link/6.3.0.0.0)

I just got mine 249.99


Posted by: b0stonirishguy

Some comparison pics:












Posted by: dwarden30

Is anyone able to tether with a mac? I just found out about this phone. Cingular has finnally come out with a 3g phone that competes well with Verzon and Sprint. Can somone compare it to a Motorola v810? Should I switch back to Cingular?


Posted by: maverick22

I noticed someone who has the phone also has a w600.

How does the earpiece compare with that of the cu500? I thought the w600 could have been a little louder (especially needed while in my car that's kinda loud), but at the same time people came in crystal clear.

I'm hoping the cu500 is louder than the w600 while at the same time has the good, clear audio quality.

Thanks in advance.


Posted by: dcdttu

So far, here's the issues I've found with this phone:

1. It constantly prompts you to allow WAP access to programs you run that aren't Cingular.

2. When on a call and someone else calls, YOU CAN'T ANSWER IT! I was on speakerphone with Cingular waiting for Tech Supp and my friend called.... Try as I did to hit 'answer,' it didn't work. I also hit the green answer button. No Luck. I had him call again to the same results.

This phone's basic functions don't seem to be ironed out...

I'm on the phone with Cingular now, and they're calling LG Customer Support. We'll see what happens.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by jansonm
Yours came with a 64mb card!? Before i picked up the phone, i thought it would, too... but no such luck. Is it hidden somewhere in the packaging!?


No my mine was pre-loaded!


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by maverick22
I noticed someone who has the phone also has a w600.

How does the earpiece compare with that of the cu500? I thought the w600 could have been a little louder (especially needed while in my car that's kinda loud), but at the same time people came in crystal clear.

I'm hoping the cu500 is louder than the w600 while at the same time has the good, clear audio quality.

Thanks in advance.


I think the earpiece at its highest level is screaming loud!


Posted by: Bob Bob

[QUOTE=dcdttu]So far, here's the issues I've found with this phone:

2. When on a call and someone else calls, YOU CAN'T ANSWER IT! I was on speakerphone with Cingular waiting for Tech Supp and my friend called.... Try as I did to hit 'answer,' it didn't work. I also hit the green answer button. No Luck. I had him call again to the same results.


maybe you have to activate call waiting through the Settings menu first?


Posted by: jbzcar

WOOHOO!! I have BT DUN working now. I had to change it in the Settings menu from USB to BT.


Posted by: ivwshane

A couple of gripes I have about the phone is the fact that you can't put it on speakerphone and close it:|

You also can't use mobiradio with it streaming either:|


Other than that the speaker is very nice, the clarity is nice too. The screen on the outside is actually readable unlike the v3.

The spring resistant hinge is nice (it gives some resistance when fully open but if you keep pressing it it will "click" and open just a tad more. That perfect for those that like to shove their phones tight agaisnt their head.

Over all without testing reception and voice quality, this actually seems like a decent lg phone (something I'm not used to).


Posted by: WirelessAndy

Quote:
Originally Posted by dcdttu

2. When on a call and someone else calls, YOU CAN'T ANSWER IT! I was on speakerphone with Cingular waiting for Tech Supp and my friend called.... Try as I did to hit 'answer,' it didn't work. I also hit the green answer button. No Luck. I had him call again to the same results.

This phone's basic functions don't seem to be ironed out...


That doesn't sound good. Anyone else duplicate this?


Posted by: Wide_opeN

For those in 3g areas do you still get the annoying buzz when the phone is near speakers?


Posted by: Wide_opeN

For those in 3g areas is the voice quality noticably better?


Posted by: s2kvietboi

Yea im in a 3G area and Its good thats probly the Best thing about this phone.


Posted by: JR1

Has anyone tried it in a low RF area. I live in cell phone hell it has to be a good phone to pick up here.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by s2kvietboi
Yea im in a 3G area and Its good thats probly the Best thing about this phone.


I kid you not I took a closer look at coverage on the MTI coverage tool, 3g is LITERALLY across the street, I'm ready to jump off a roof or something!!!!!!!


Posted by: b0stonirishguy

I'm in a 3G area but can't even test it yet. My 3G SIM couldn't be activated. There's some kind of BS "billing error" in the system. Tier 2 is looking into it, with a resolve date of no later than 7/20.


Posted by: TheRupp

Quote:
Originally Posted by JR1
Has anyone tried it in a low RF area. I live in cell phone hell it has to be a good phone to pick up here.


Unfortunately LG's don't have a prominent history of being the ideal phone for that situation. Otherwise, they're excellent phones, and I'm very excited about this one. I'm going to look at it later today.


Posted by: WirelessAndy

Quote:
Originally Posted by TheRupp
Unfortunately LG's don't have a prominent history of being the ideal phone for that situation. Otherwise, they're excellent phones, and I'm very excited about this one. I'm going to look at it later today.


If you bring one home... be sure to test out that low RF for us!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by WirelessAndy
That doesn't sound good. Anyone else duplicate this?


Nope, it works fine for me.


Posted by: squish37

Ok, how many people got a phone with a memory card already installed? I didn't. Also, this may be trivial to many people but is there a way in the settings to take the name cingular off the internal and external displays? It has been a long time since I have had a phone where this could not be removed. In my opinion it messes up the wallpaper. Thanks for all the info, you guys rock!


Posted by: squish37

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bob Bob
[QUOTE=dcdttu]So far, here's the issues I've found with this phone:

2. When on a call and someone else calls, YOU CAN'T ANSWER IT! I was on speakerphone with Cingular waiting for Tech Supp and my friend called.... Try as I did to hit 'answer,' it didn't work. I also hit the green answer button. No Luck. I had him call again to the same results.


maybe you have to activate call waiting through the Settings menu first?


This happened to me and I did in fact have to activate the call waiting feature. Have only tried it once since then and it worked fine.


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by squish37
Ok, how many people got a phone with a memory card already installed? I didn't. Also, this may be trivial to many people but is there a way in the settings to take the name cingular off the internal and external displays? It has been a long time since I have had a phone where this could not be removed. In my opinion it messes up the wallpaper. Thanks for all the info, you guys rock!


My phone had a 64mbs card already, no big deal to me however being that I already had a 512mbs card. The GSM carriers don't let you mess with the banners at all, but suprisingly the CDMA carriers do... Go Figure!?!?!?!


Posted by: KlamshellKing

hmm, i may want to get this phone... itd be a nice alternative to my 8125 and i could even connect to 3g if i tether via bluetooth. My question though is can you use mp3s as alarm tones from the memory card??? also how big is the internal display atleast the size of the razr?


Posted by: Wide_opeN

Quote:
Originally Posted by kisher12991
hmm, i may want to get this phone... itd be a nice alternative to my 8125 and i could even connect to 3g if i tether via bluetooth. My question though is can you use mp3s as alarm tones from the memory card??? also how big is the internal display atleast the size of the razr?


The internal is a tad smaller than the razr, I'm pretty sure you could use ringtones as alarm tones, because it lets you use mp3's as ringtones!!!


Posted by: puckchump

Quote:
Originally Posted by kisher12991
hmm, i may want to get this phone... itd be a nice alternative to my 8125 and i could even connect to 3g if i tether via bluetooth. My question though is can you use mp3s as alarm tones from the memory card??? also how big is the internal display atleast the size of the razr?


The screen is a little smaller but the same resolution 176x220 and mp3s of the memory card can be used as an alarm but the have a size limit. I do not know what it is but I shortened mp3s to 30 seconds and they work fine.


Posted by: jbzcar

Well, it also seems that Real Media streaming via ORB is no longer supported on the CU500. It worked fine on the CU320 and the quality seemed better than streaming 3GP, which you have to use on the CU500 now.


Posted by: jmsewe0

Guys, i tried to order the phone through telesales, and the lady tells me that I cant have it since I dont live in a 3g area. I reply that I travel to Houston a lot and since it is a 3g area, and mine area should be upgraded by the end of the year, can i still order the phone. She once again tells me there is no way to do so, and that the phone is not compatible in the first place. BULL! She then tells me that to actually get the phone, i would need to activate a second line with a houston number, then switch the sims. Then she says that I will not be able to canel the 2nd line. Hrmmm....

Ok, guys, how can i get this phone in my area without having to jump through a ton of hoops? I am not under contract so should I say that I will cancel if i cannot get the phone?


Posted by: maverick22

I'm not familiar with 3G; so 3G phones are supposed to allow for clearer conversations?


Posted by: Tin Star

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
Well, it also seems that Real Media streaming via ORB is no longer supported on the CU500. It worked fine on the CU320 and the quality seemed better than streaming 3GP, which you have to use on the CU500 now.


Are you saying that you can not stream video from Orb? Can someone confirm this?


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by Tin Star
Are you saying that you can not stream video from Orb? Can someone confirm this?


No, I can stream just fine when I set it to 3GP. I can no longer stream in Real Media is what I am saying.


Posted by: cjmedina

can some one post the settings to tether it to a computer i tried the cu320 but couldnt get it to work


Posted by: dental stud-ent

I got it for myself today as a congratulatory gift for completing (and hopefully passing) my boards. It's NICE. The first store I went into would show me one but not sell it...so I had to go to the store across the street (both corporate.) It's sweet.
Does anyone know if this headset would work with it? It's the bluetooth logitech ones for $15.


Posted by: Demodave

A couple of questions:

1) Can I sync my contacts from Outlook to this phone?

2) Is it possible to stream a standard MP3 based stream such as SOMAFM.COM, RADIOPARADISE.COM or SMOOTHLOUNGE.COM?


Posted by: dcdttu

Wirelessly posted (LG-CU500 Obigo/WAP2.0 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 UP.Link/6.3.0.0.0)

sometimes caller waiting works for me, sometimes it doesn't. seems to be if you do other things like browse the web while on a call, then it on't answer a call waiting call. cingular called and put in a ticket for of with lg. hopefully they wil amend it and send out a fix.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
No, I can stream just fine when I set it to 3GP. I can no longer stream in Real Media is what I am saying.


Which websites do you stream from? is it audio or video? both, perhaps?

Thanks,
Janson


Posted by: kevink1

Quote:
Originally Posted by jmsewe0
Guys, i tried to order the phone through telesales, and the lady tells me that I cant have it since I dont live in a 3g area. I reply that I travel to Houston a lot and since it is a 3g area, and mine area should be upgraded by the end of the year, can i still order the phone.


At least you saved some time for me today. I was seriously considering giving Cingular a call and seeing if I could upgrade. Same boat, don't live a 3G area, will occasionally drive to places like Dallas that has it, plans to go to San Diego this year, etc.

I hope to hear success for people dropping by a corporate store in a 3G area, whose home area isn't 3G, and reporting their experience. If this works, I may just try this within the next month in Dallas.


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by dental stud-ent
I got it for myself today as a congratulatory gift for completing (and hopefully passing) my boards. It's NICE. The first store I went into would show me one but not sell it...so I had to go to the store across the street (both corporate.) It's sweet.
Does anyone know if this headset would work with it? It's the bluetooth logitech ones for $15.



Let me know what you find out about those headphones. I'd be all over them for $15.


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by jansonm
Which websites do you stream from? is it audio or video? both, perhaps?

Thanks,
Janson



I only use ORB.


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by cingular1977
I've tethered but unfortunately my house falls just short of a 3g signal, but it still is bloody fast. Can't wait till they add another tower or two!


Did you need to do anything special to get it to tether via BT? The CU320 said it needed the extra Modem INT string.


Posted by: crusader33x

how is the mp3 player? how many songs can it hold?


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
WTF I can't tether!!!

My laptop says the only service the phone is broadcasting is BT Serial Port.

I am able to connect using my USB cable, though. IT HAULS ***!!! 725 kbps down and 339 kbps up!!!!



SOMEONE NEEDS TO CONFIRM IF THIS WILL TETHER WITH BT!!!! No deal if it doesn't!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by wpbear
SOMEONE NEEDS TO CONFIRM IF THIS WILL TETHER WITH BT!!!! No deal if it doesn't!


I have already stated that is does in fact tether with Bluetooth. You need only enable it in the Settings menu.


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by crusader33x
how is the mp3 player? how many songs can it hold?



As many as your Transflash card can fit.


Posted by: jmsewe0

Quote:
Originally Posted by kevink1
At least you saved some time for me today. I was seriously considering giving Cingular a call and seeing if I could upgrade. Same boat, don't live a 3G area, will occasionally drive to places like Dallas that has it, plans to go to San Diego this year, etc.

I hope to hear success for people dropping by a corporate store in a 3G area, whose home area isn't 3G, and reporting their experience. If this works, I may just try this within the next month in Dallas.



Well glad something came out of my 1.5 hour call with them

The problem for me is, I will not be travelling to a 3g area anytime soon, and my RAZR is about dead. It is quickly turning into a brick! Anyone have any ideas? Wait till it come down in price on ebay?


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by dental stud-ent
I got it for myself today as a congratulatory gift for completing (and hopefully passing) my boards. It's NICE. The first store I went into would show me one but not sell it...so I had to go to the store across the street (both corporate.) It's sweet.
Does anyone know if this headset would work with it? It's the bluetooth logitech ones for $15.


Yes it would but the reviews either on CNET or Amazon for the headset were bad cause the plastic headset brok really quick.


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
I have already stated that is does in fact tether with Bluetooth. You need only enable it in the Settings menu.



Sorry I was catching up reading the threads, and almost lost my mind when i read that. Cant wait to get mine!!!


Posted by: JR1

Quote:
Originally Posted by jbzcar
As many as your Transflash card can fit.


How big of card with it accept?


Posted by: squish37

Quote:
Originally Posted by kevink1
At least you saved some time for me today. I was seriously considering giving Cingular a call and seeing if I could upgrade. Same boat, don't live a 3G area, will occasionally drive to places like Dallas that has it, plans to go to San Diego this year, etc.

I hope to hear success for people dropping by a corporate store in a 3G area, whose home area isn't 3G, and reporting their experience. If this works, I may just try this within the next month in Dallas.


My area is VERY close to 3G but it is not yet. I went to a corp store and they sold me the phone. Probably because we are so close. The rep did say that when you come into the store they can tell you and show you that the speeds will be off until the new network reaches your area. That does not seem to be the case for the people reporting not being able to get it here. The speeds are amazing even on Edge. I have mobitv which up to now has SUxxED something terrible and now it is ALMOST seamless. This is on Edge! I can't wait until the new network reaches me. If you are buying the phone outright I would think you could purchase it anywhere they are selling it since it doesn't have to go through Cingular at all. Good Luck!


Posted by: dental stud-ent

Quote:
Originally Posted by wpbear
Yes it would but the reviews either on CNET or Amazon for the headset were bad cause the plastic headset brok really quick.


I read that too...but then I realized that there's a costco nearby, so if it does break I guess I can always return or exchange it. I have a big noggin so I hope that it does fit. I also read that you can boil water and dip the plastic in it for a few seconds to increase the elasticity of it so it'll fit to your head, so hopefully that works, if not back it goes.


Posted by: wpbear

Quote:
Originally Posted by dental stud-ent
I read that too...but then I realized that there's a costco nearby, so if it does break I guess I can always return or exchange it. I have a big noggin so I hope that it does fit. I also read that you can boil water and dip the plastic in it for a few seconds to increase the elasticity of it so it'll fit to your head, so hopefully that works, if not back it goes.



Since it is Costco you could. I read that the Moto HT850 (I Think) is pretty nice. But this is a new topic. Enjoy!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by JR1
How big of card with it accept?


The largest currently available is a 1gb card.


Posted by: HiwayFuzz

Ordered mine on the phone this afternoon 249 no commit


Posted by: bikemanj7

did you order it through NBO???


Posted by: yamahafirth

Hey, I was just wondering if anyone had tried hooking their mac to the phone. I read earlier that it was not mac compatable, but then someone else said they were able to blue tooth it to their computer. Just wondering if anyone had messed with the Mac with it yet. Thinking about getting it tomorrow!

Included in that question is how internet connect is with 3G and EDGE and all.


Posted by: HiwayFuzz

Quote:
Originally Posted by bikemanj7
did you order it through NBO???

I answered your pm - regular cc - nbo was closed today


Posted by: *jo*d@n*

wuts the length of the mp3s? can u put full songs on the phone or the memory card?


Posted by: Makaveli258

Might be a stupid question but...

can you view text messages on the outside screen?


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by yamahafirth
Hey, I was just wondering if anyone had tried hooking their mac to the phone. I read earlier that it was not mac compatable, but then someone else said they were able to blue tooth it to their computer. Just wondering if anyone had messed with the Mac with it yet. Thinking about getting it tomorrow!

Included in that question is how internet connect is with 3G and EDGE and all.

I've got one of the late-model powerbook g4's, and and i've been able to bluetooth files between the two... Address Book is useless, though, and I haven't tried iSync. When i get a chance to, I'll report back!


Quote:
Originally Posted by *jo*d@n*
wuts the length of the mp3s? can u put full songs on the phone or the memory card?

I'm not aware of any limitations for length or file size. I grabbed a 1gb card, and so far i've loaded an entire album and a few miscellaneous songs, with no headaches and plenty of room to spare!


Quote:
Originally Posted by Makaveli258
Might be a stupid question but...

can you view text messages on the outside screen?

Not a stupid question at all... in fact, right after i got the phone, i sent myself a text message to see if it could be done. From what i can tell, text messages cannot be read from the external screen. Perhaps if enough people are concerned with this issue, LG can do something about it with a software update!

If anyone's got questions, feel free to ask away! Good luck!


Posted by: jbzcar

Quote:
Originally Posted by Makaveli258
Might be a stupid question but...

can you view text messages on the outside screen?


Nope.

Short message.


Posted by: *jo*d@n*

thanx cuz other ppl was sayin sumthin bout it b4 jus wanted to clear it up! now ima try to figure out how to get the phone since i dont live in a 3g area, got any help for that???


Posted by: CLERiC_AJ

I live in Houston but goto school about 2 hours outside of Houston. I have a Houston number but obviously I am not in a 3g area as it is a small college town. Can I get this phone from Cingular and does anyone have any info on its quality in non-3g areas?


Posted by: Isriam

mp3 files for audio ringtone, are they limited to 600k like the 320?

can you set a mp3 for text message?


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by Isriam
mp3 files for audio ringtone, are they limited to 600k like the 320?

can you set a mp3 for text message?

I'm not sure if the limit for ringtones is 600k, although when i tried to use a full-length mp3 as my ringtone, i was given an error message about the file being too large. The manual only says, "Full length music tracks cannot be set as ringtones", but it never defines "full length" I'd be willing to go out on a limb here and say that if the cu320 was limited to 600k, then that's the limit of this one.

And as for the text message tones, there is only a list of 8 or 9 predefined sounds that can be used.

I know that sounds like a lot of bad information, but really, the phone is awesome- i can't stop picking it up and fiddling with it!


Posted by: WirelessAndy

So, does the CU500 hold onto a call better than the ill-fated LG 4010 and C1300?

(Maybe not a fair comparison. My bare hand can hang onto to invisble RF better than those infamous LG's.)

Nice looking phone, although it means nothing if it's dropping out all the time.


Posted by: jansonm

Quote:
Originally Posted by WirelessAndy
So, does the CU500 hold onto a call better than the ill-fated LG 4010 and C1300?

(Maybe not a fair comparison. My bare hand can hang onto to invisble RF better than those infamous LG's.)

Nice looking phone, although it means nothing if it's dropping out all the time.


This is the first LG phone I've ever used, so I can't comment on how the CU500's reception compares to the 4010 and C1300. I CAN say that so far, I've only dropped one call, and that happened while driving through a tunnel. The sound quality thus far has been top notch, though I haven't left the 3G network- so, I don't know if that's got anything to do with the perfect call quality.


Posted by: WirelessAndy

Thanks for that, Jansonm. Can you or anyone else compare to other phones?

Like, on par/worse/better than the Nokia 6230b/RAZR/W600i/6010...


Posted by: iamthedudeman

Quote:
Originally Posted by s2kvietboi
HAHA lol i know, i havnt been Scamed like that yet. i knew hewas fakin it. so i listed it agian and SOLD it for 1200.00 GREAT price to have it FIRST. i got this phone about a month and a half ago used it on a daily bases and didnt really like it as i like the zx20 but still a great phone!


Perfect timing, right before it was released, I would like to have did the same, but too late. Way to go bro.

I still hate those non payers, sumsof*****es.


Posted by: FormulaNY

Hmmm it doesnt support video calling so I guess I'll wait for the Tytn PDA phone before I join the "new age" cellular broadband.


Posted by: Dr. John

Quote:
Originally Posted by HiwayFuzz
I answered your pm - regular cc - nbo was closed today


$249 through customer care? Dammit. I called CC yesterday, and the guy couldn't even find the phone in the system to be able to sell to me. He said that sometimes CC might get phones 1 - 2 weeks after the COR stores get them to sell. WTF? How did you get them to sell it to you? Maybe I just called too early in the day and the phone wasn't in the system yet...

Anyway, If I'm able to get this phone full price/no contract from CC, how do I return it? Do I have to mail it back to them w/in the 30 days, or will a COR accept the return? I desperately need to replace my V400 (POS), and was thinking about waiting for the TyTn, but would definitely "settle" for the CU500 if I like it enough. But if I'm not happy, I'll just return it and continue waiting for the HTC beast.


Posted by: Dr. John

Quote:
Originally Posted by jansonm
I'm not sure if the limit for ringtones is 600k, although when i tried to use a full-length mp3 as my ringtone, i was given an error message about the file being too large. The manual only says, "Full length music tracks cannot be set as ringtones", but it never defines "full length" I'd be willing to go out on a limb here and say that if the cu320 was limited to 600k, then that's the limit of this one.

And as for the text message tones, there is only a list of 8 or 9 predefined sounds that can be used.

I know that sounds like a lot of bad information, but really, the phone is awesome- i can't stop picking it up and fiddling with it!


This is dumb as hell. Why would someone even limit the use of full .mp3's as ringtones? That just forces you to have two copies of some of the songs you like on your SDmicro. That's one thing I didn't like about the d807 (besides the volume & proprietary connector), and I can't believe the same limitation is on the CU500. *sigh*

I loved how on the Cingular 2125/HTC Faraday, I could just have a bunch of .mp3's on the miniSD card, and choose any one of them as a ringtone, without worrying about carrying two copies of EVERY song. I usually like to change my ringtone every few days to a week or so, but this would just be a pain in the arse.

Is this an issue with the phone provider (Samsung, LG), or is Cingular setting this ridiculous restriction? Surely there's a way to bypass/hack the restriction... right?


Posted by: jansonm

Believe it or not, I didn't really pay attention to how my last phone (SE s710a) held on to it's signal, so I can't compare. I have noticed a little something interesting- even when the signal is extremely low (0 or 1 bar) and there's only a 3G symbol in the corner, i am able to place a call and carry on a perfectly clear conversation.

As for the mp3 weirdness, I believe it's LG's fault. My Sony Ericsson had the ability to do it, and it was a great feature, so I doubt Cingular would actively try to prevent something like that. I'm 100% in the dark when it comes to hacking phones, so I have no idea if it could be bypassed. Perhaps if enough complaints are made to LG and/or Cingular, we will see a fix for it in an upcoming software update...


Posted by: HiwayFuzz

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dr. John
$249 through customer care? Dammit. I called CC yesterday, and the guy couldn't even find the phone in the system to be able to sell to me. He said that sometimes CC might get phones 1 - 2 weeks after the COR stores get them to sell. WTF? How did you get them to sell it to you? Maybe I just called too early in the day and the phone wasn't in the system yet...

Anyway, If I'm able to get this phone full price/no contract from CC, how do I return it? Do I have to mail it back to them w/in the 30 days, or will a COR accept the return? I desperately need to replace my V400 (POS), and was thinking about waiting for the TyTn, but would definitely "settle" for the CU500 if I like it enough. But if I'm not happy, I'll just return it and continue waiting for the HTC beast.


I was transferred all over the place. They would tell me they had never heard of it, and I kept after them- finally, a rep said that she found it - she checked another system and said, "oh, it's right here. It isn't listed on this system, but it is available in the ordering system for 249 - no commit. we have some in stock and more expected on Wednesday". so, i ordered.

One of the first reps that I got said that I was the third person that had called about that phone, and she had never heard of it.. She looked and said it is still listed as coming soon! I guess hofo peeps were on the ball yesterday..lol

COR will accept returns from phones purchased through the web and telesales - well, they have on NBO purchased phones. If it is listed on premier cheaper, that is what I will be doing...


Posted by: Angelsnitch

I would like to know if anyone has tried to use this phone as a modem with a Mac?? I am trying to decide between this phone which is actually available and the or to wait for the nokia 6126 next month (supposedly )

My major thing is I use my phone as my modem and I have a Mac so I would need to make sure it worked and if it does, where do I get the modem scripts to add it in?

If anyone has the answer or even a good guess or a contact I could make please let me know! Thanks!!


Posted by: dental stud-ent

Has anyone used the MusicID thing? I used it to see if it actually worked, which it did one of two times, and then went online and saw it was $4.99 or something a month...is Cingular actually going to charge that?

Oh, and does anyone know what the little pennant thing is in the icons?


Posted by: rg1

I have a PowerBook but I don't have this phone yet. I see no reason why this phone would work with Windows and not a Mac. The phone doesn't know the client that is connecting, only the bluetooth profile. I would recommend using the "generic" scripts for this phone. I used them for my Nokia 6682 as well as W600i. I had to download the generic scripts and I don't remember where I got them.

Good luck....


Posted by: b0stonirishguy

Quote:
Originally Posted by WirelessAndy
So, does the CU500 hold onto a call better than the ill-fated LG 4010 and C1300?

(Maybe not a fair comparison. My bare hand can hang onto to invisble RF better than those infamous LG's.)

Nice looking phone, although it means nothing if it's dropping out all the time.


Well, I'd have chimed in earlier, but I'd like to wait for my 3G SIM to be activated for a full appraisal. Right now I'm using my trusty 32K. In limited usage, no dropped calls. While the "number of bars" comparison isn't usually an accurate measure of RF quality, I've noticed no major differences from the other phones I own (and I have quite a few ). I can say that the earpiece is loud; no problem hearing even in a noisy environment. Call quality was clear. One quirk that I noticed was when making a call, the phone rings start off low and become louder on the individual ring. MediaNet seems extremely zippy even on EDGE.


Posted by: Dr. John

Quote:
Originally Posted by jansonm
Believe it or not, I didn't really pay attention to how my last phone (SE s710a) held on to it's signal, so I can't compare. I have noticed a little something interesting- even when the signal is extremely low (0 or 1 bar) and there's only a 3G symbol in the corner, i am able to place a call and carry on a perfectly clear conversation.

As for the mp3 weirdness, I believe it's LG's fault. My Sony Ericsson had the ability to do it, and it was a great feature, so I doubt Cingular would actively try to prevent something like that. I'm 100% in the dark when it comes to hacking phones, so I have no idea if it could be bypassed. Perhaps if enough complaints are made to LG and/or Cingular, we will see a fix for it in an upcoming software update...


I certainly hope so. And FWIW, the Samsung d807 has the same 600 KB limitation.

Quote:
Originally Posted by HiwayFuzz
I was transferred all over the place. They would tell me they had never heard of it, and I kept after them- finally, a rep said that she found it - she checked another system and said, "oh, it's right here. It isn't listed on this system, but it is available in the ordering system for 249 - no commit. we have some in stock and more expected on Wednesday". so, i ordered.

One of the first reps that I got said that I was the third person that had called about that phone, and she had never heard of it.. She looked and said it is still listed as coming soon! I guess hofo peeps were on the ball yesterday..lol

COR will accept returns from phones purchased through the web and telesales - well, they have on NBO purchased