The O2 Xda Orbit 2

O2 have been...

The radio and calculator aren't something I'd use. I'd like to use the radio but I'm not going to go wired headset just to use it.

I use the radio while working and the calculator for the same reason, so both are must haves for me. S9's when not at the PC.

Nice review but I notice the multi-media aspects of the device were not really tested - is this anything to do with the BIG debate going on at the moment regards the dumbed-down video drivers for the Orbit 2 (see HTCClassAction.org - Because HTC dropped the ball, and it's about time they pick it up! )?? Also I picked up on some concern regards Bluetooth performance... if truth be told this worries me even more than video playback (for some years I have had to put up with very poor bluetooth and therefore poor hands-free performance with HTC products - I was hoping they would finally get this right)

I can assure you that all aspects were tested when using my Orbit 2, I use TCPMP v0.81 to play all videos back without any problem and the sharp screen makes for a nice view. Too much is being made of the video drivers they do what I want them to do, and games play fine, what graphically intense apps do people want to use on a PDA/Phone?

I have had no problems with bluetooth and the stack should be the same as used in other HTC devices without problem. I have tested the Orbit 2's bluetooth with my PC's built in bluetooth, Motorola S9 stereo bluetooth headphones, TomTom 6 and Co Pilot 7 sat nav and it behaves as well as any other newer HTC device I have tried or owned.

I believe that, in the past, Windows Mobile devices have had problems with certain car kits. Particularly the Nokias but also some of the Factory Instal kits from BMW and the like. In MS's defence, this appears to be the fault of the kits, not the Windows Mobile stack. Some of the kit manufacturers are implementing features that are not part of the bluetooth standard but are supported by Nokia phones and some of the other big brands.

Of course, being able to say it's the fault of the kit doesn't really help those affected by the problem. Let's face it, given a choice between changing your car or changing your mobile phone, most would probably opt to get a £100 Nokia!

It's also, somewhat more than slightly, ironic that MS were getting bitten by the "but we followed the standards, it's everyone else who's wrong" problem.

Multi-media was covered showing the new interface but not much playback etc, basically as I'm not into that area of expertease. I watch the odd camera clip back and holiday photos that is about it.

I've not had any BT issues at all with the Plantronics headset.

Excellent reviews. Got my Orbit 2 today. Had to take it back as a pixle was "missing" but nice machine.

i've looked around the last couple of weeks for a web-retailer who will carry this device and sell in the USA. i would be grateful if someone could direct me to site where i can purchase for use in the USA. i prefer the Orbit 2 look vs. the Touch Cruise....thanks in advance for any help! oh yeah, i'm extremely jealous of all you Orbit 2 owners!!!!

Sorry, there isn't one. It is an O2 network exclusive housing. Your choices are find a friend in UK who will buy it and send it to you, or wait for it to come up on ebay.
Judging on past O2 exclusives like the Orbit 1, no US providers will have this housing.

It's possible someone like Mobileplanet might do it at a later date, but as Cyc said EBay would be your best bet right now.