Loading ...AT&T launched the AT&T Mobile TV service with the Samsung Access and LG Vu. In this article, my primary focus is to show off AT&T Mobile TV via the Samsung Access. That being said, lets get the Access’ specs out of the way. Access is a candy bar shaped phone featuring a gorgeous 240 by 320 pixel, TFT, 262K color display. It runs on the AT&T network and is quadband with support for UMTS 1900/850MHz. The Access isn’t too big nor too small, and for the purpose of its existence it’s just right - with dimensions measuring 4.49×2.28×0.47 inches. Weighing merely 3.46 ounces won’t weigh down your shirt pocket. My only concern is Samsung’s standard battery, which the company claims can manage talk time of up to 4 hours or up to 400 hours of standby time. The overall average battery life combining the use of phone, Internet and of course watching mobile TV is yet to be determined.
Internally, Access is outfitted with 3G-HSDPA, which is one of the key features for making it possible to enjoy TV programming via TouchFLO technology. It’s also capable of streaming radio feeds and video. With a Video Share capable SIM (ISIM) card, you can use Video Share - a service that lets you share live, real-time video with friends who are subscribers. Mobile email is available allowing you access to email services such as Yahoo, Windows Live, and in addition to 2-way SMS, MMS and instant messaging. The 1.3 megapixel digital camera is slightly dated for my taste, letting the handset down compared to others in AT&T’s range. The onboard 100MB memory is shared between the MP3 player and the camera, allows you to save up to an hour of audio and up to an hour of video clips. The list of basic features goes on and on - so click here to view the rest.
As for AT&T Mobile TV service, what do I think of it? Well, the short answer is WOW. And yes, it’s simply amazing. I can totally see myself walking into people, light poles or even worse crossing the street while watching TV on the Access. My experience is based on usage in a 3G-enabled city so results may vary if AT&T hasn’t rolled out 3G in your area yet. There’s a dedicated “TV” button on the left hand side of the Access, immediately to the left of the D-Pad. Setting and subscribing was quick and painless. The service will cost you an additional $15.00 per month, and watching Mobile TV doesn’t count against your minutes. Scrolling through the guide is quick and easy; when you find a program you want to watch, simply click the center button. Streaming video quality is utterly amazing - combining that with Samsung’s super high quality display, watching TV on the go is now an enjoyable experience.
I realized this is a quick and dirty run through of the Samsung Access and AT&T Mobile TV. The package was supposed to arrive on Saturday, but unfortunately, due to a tornado in Memphis, the package didn’t arrive at the station until this morning; where I was already there banging on the door at 8AM. If you follow PHONE Magazine, then you’re aware that I’ve been in London the past couple of days to “witness HTC’s next wave of innovation” press event . The videos were literally shot while I was waiting to take off, so please excuse the background noise. Feel free drop me an email or click comment to ask me whatever questions you may have. Thanks for your understanding. Enjoy the unboxing video, AT&T Mobile TV walkthrough and by the way the hands-on images are also available for your viewing pleasure.
