T-Mobile Dash Review
Posted on: November 22, 2006
I had the opportunity to use the T-mobile Dash –also known as HTC S620- for half a day and I have to say that I liked what I saw. First, the device is cute and feels great in my hand. It is half the thickness of my gigantic Treo 700w and weighs much less too. Finally, there’s no antenna to poke me (oh man, I hate this antenna) and the display is a nice 320x240 (QVGA) one, versus 240x240 for the Treo 700w.
The closest device that I played with is the Motorola Q (read review) with the notable difference that the Q has a faster data connection (as it is a 3G phone), while the Dash is a 2.5G one. The user interface is similar: there’s no touch screen. I did not go deep in the option menus, but while I was using it, I did not notice anything fundamentally different from the Q. The T-Mobile Dash user interface is sensibly more reactive than the Q. I got my friend Kevin to setup his personal email (accessed over GPRS) and his professional email (via WiFi) in outlook.
The part that was worrying me was the battery life, but after a work day of good use, the battery still had 30% left in the evening. It’s a good sign, but it means that advanced (email) users will have to charge it at least everyday. Heavy users (web browsing, email) would need to charge it all the time. Reader comments would be welcomed om this subject.
Should you go for the 2.5G T-Mobile Dash or the 3G Motorola Q?
If you just want to read/send emails, go for the Dash. It has a better feel than the Q and T-Mobile’s mobile internet is a little bit cheaper -and slower- than Verizon’s data plan, but it’s good enough for email. The Dash also has WiFi, but I personally think that WiFi should not be relied upon – did you notice that there is never a decent hotspot when you *really* need one? Still, for the same price, WiFi is painfully missing on the Q. If you’re a heavy data user, I’d recommend skipping both these phones and grab a Treo 700w. It’s old, bulkier but it’s still the best 3G smart phone that I’ve tested.
Thanks to Kevin M. for loaning his phone.
Useful links:
T-Mobile Dash
HTC Home
Update (26 Nov 06): I received a number of questions and I wanted to share the answers with everyone here:
Does it crash a lot?
No I have not experienced any crash or slowdown. However I played with it only one afternoon. I frankly don’t think that recent Windows Mobile devices have stability issues, especially if users don’t install additional software.
Does it have Push Email?
Yes, but “true push email” works only if you have an exchange server. I don’t know if a T-mobile email account provides true push email.
How wide is the thing?
It’s the witdh of my Treo 700w, but half the thickness. I really like the feel of holding the Dash.
Is it strange to use as a phone?
A Qwerty phone is always different so if you never used one, it might be strange at first. If you used a Treo or any other Qwerty device before, you will feel at home.
What about Skype? Is there Skype for smart phones?
There's Skype for windows mobile. I tried it only on my Treo. It works, but is somewhat slow (looks like a CPU hog). I didn't try it on the T-mobile Dash. I suspect that the slow (200Mhz) CPU and the 2.5G data rate would make using Skype difficult, but I don’t know for sure.
Have you tried the WiFi and did it worked well?
WiFi was tested and, yes it works well. No issues there.
Was the keyboard too cramped?
It’s comparable to the Treo or the Motorola Q, although the Treo 700w has the best keyboard in my opinion.
Screen size is ok?
The display is really nice and readable. I’d try to use even smaller fonts.
No jog dial?
Unfortunately, no. It would have been a nice addition. I’m not so bumped by the lack of jog, but for Blackberry users, it’s probably like having a missing finger…
Was it easy to navigate the menu using the joystick?
It is, but I noticed that it’s too easy to click (OK) while trying to go up and down. The joystick button is too flat.
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Reader Comments
By tiff , 04/05/08 10:49 PM (CommentID #663741)
i need help i just got my dash phone a couple months ago and it wont turn on well it will but it keeps going right back off then right back on what to do
By Takira , 10/04/08 8:37 AM (CommentID #622375)
Just brought the DASH havent received it yet but I hope I have great luck with it. After reading all of the posts I am alittle worried!!
By Mike , 08/04/08 12:06 PM (CommentID #617831)
Do not purchase the Dash. If you do have this phone the only things that I have seen help are getting an overclock program (don't go over 300Mhz) and putting all of your files on a microSD card (frees up the system memory).
By cadillackid , 06/04/08 9:05 PM (CommentID #614867)
I have had my dash for 8 months. At first the only problem was the occassional freeze up. I figured it was because I had two many programs running. Lastnight my screen broke, I pulled the phone out of my pocket and saw that the lcd under the outer casing had cracked. I never dropped it. I went to Tmobile and they told me that it wouldnt be covered under the manufacturer's warranty cuz it wasnt a manufacturer's issue. THat is crap because I called tmobile and they said there was an issue with the lcd screen braking due to a problem with one of the brackets. I got tossed around from tmobile to the insurance company, all in all I was transfered 8 times and spent an hour on the phone. This is definitely an issue with a bad LCD screen and it is happening to a lot of people. I refuse to pay the $110 deductible and I have a plan to get a phone for free. Don't give into the cell phone companies they make so much money and take advantage of so many people. Will keep you updated.
By clipinski06 , 02/04/08 11:19 AM (CommentID #605908)
three months ago i got rid of my sidekick id and got the dash. i love it. where i didnt get service with my sidekick i do with the dash! wifi works great and i get it almost everywhere. no screen problems, actually no problems at all. best phone i have ever had! my boyfriends has the blackberry pearl and asks if we can trade phones everyday bc he likes mine so much and the pearl is a good phone as far as he has had it!!
By Paul R , 25/03/08 1:06 AM (CommentID #585403)
wow. i cannot believe all the negative comments about the dash. i have had mine now for about 5 months and i love it. i have installed tcpmp and watch movies on my dash and the picture is crystal clear and the sound is great. mp3 play great on it through my bluetooth headset and i love how light and tiny it is. i have multiple microsd 2gb flash memory cards for my music and movies and its really fun. i use it all the time for email and Instanst Messaging friends and i am writing this review on it right now. if you research the dash and all it can do, you will not be disappointed. i love it.
By md , 19/03/08 10:34 AM (CommentID #569139)
The Dash could be a great phone for business users -- phone works great, email, calendar, contacts, and todos sync to outlook very nicely.
The "could" in the above statement is due to the horrible battery life on this device. I can barely get 9 hours of battery life out of the phone. This is with about 60 minutes of talk time throughout the day and (mostly) inbound emails to the phone. Be prepared to have a charger at work and at home if you get this phone.
By Zack , 16/03/08 10:37 PM (CommentID #562174)
i purchased my dash on ebay and had some similar problems. i figured it was because i got it from ebay but after reading these it seems the dash just sucks...i recently broke my ebay one and they said i was eligible for an upgrade so i just bought another dash because i did not have insurance. if this phone starts acting up as my other one did i will be VERY ANGRY. recently my dash started just losing service and say searching and then connect to "home service" and it would have full bars but good for nothing. no texting, calling, internet, nothing..that is the most annoying thing....if this dash fails me i may just give tmobile the finger pay my 200 or whatever to cancel early and go to ATT for an iphone or something
By sean , 16/03/08 5:59 PM (CommentID #561648)
i have owned 6 dashes in a year and 4 months. the screen continually breaks. i do everything on my phone, so it handicapps me when im taking notes in class. they need to do something
By Jj , 11/03/08 2:29 AM (CommentID #548147)
It seems that ALOT of people are having problems with the lcd screen. I watched mine break while it was sitting on my table. One day after buyers remorse period of coarse. T-Mobile considers this normal wear and tear but its the number one complaint. I Bought it 15 days ago and now I have to pay $110 deductable for the same phone with the same problems! WTF!
Has anyone found a solution to getting at T-Mobile about this? The negative reviews far outway the positive. This product is faulty. I am about to contact the FCC and complain...
DO NOT BUY THIS PHONE
even better, stay away from t-mobile
By Anonymous , 27/02/08 1:13 PM (CommentID #515724)
I'm having the same issuse with mine. I just bought a new battery today! So your saying that's not going to fix my problem?
By Dash User , 25/02/08 3:14 PM (CommentID #511406)
The T-Mobile Dash... there aren't words enough to complain! I bought this phone about a month ago, it was all good till a week later. I wasn't able to change the profile, or go into the sounds folder (change the ring tone, alert noise...etc.) I chalked it up as a setting I had accidentally changed and did the MASTER reboot. Which I lost all my pictures, sounds, etc. So after that it was all good, till a week later. Same exact thing. Profile won't change, sounds won't change. Very bothersome. So I called T-Mobile, they told me they would send me a new Dash and to just reboot it until then. I received my new Dash, and there is another set of problems. This time almost every time I send an SMS text it either starts calling the contact I'm sending the SMS text to, or gives me and option to add a country code for a long distance call. Very annoying. Most times, you don't want to call people every few minutes. I'm planning on calling T-mobile once again tonight to see what they have to offer me. I'm NOT taking another Dash. They better upgrade me to a better phone that actually WORKS.
By toezilla , 24/02/08 6:36 PM (CommentID #509281)
wifi on the dash will work on any signal ie: your wireless router etc., however oiu have to pay to connect to tmoile hotspots like starbucks etc.
By toezilla , 24/02/08 6:08 PM (CommentID #509202)
you must turn on beaming in the comm manager. you also have to set bluetooth visibility to "on"
By ChRiiSTiiAn , 12/01/08 2:04 PM (CommentID #427341)
you guys are just tripin me and my mom both are enjoying our dashes and have no problem with it we would defenitly recommend this phone
By Hubert , 20/12/07 11:23 PM (CommentID #400107)
Aj, why don't you like T-mobile? It might help others to know.
By AJ , 20/12/07 8:54 PM (CommentID #400003)
MAN t-mOBILE SUCKS. PERIOD.
By Parth , 14/12/07 2:16 PM (CommentID #393854)
Jason, can you please let me know how you got yourself to your free pearl? and should I try to call at all before I file a complaint with the FCC?
By Katie , 11/12/07 8:26 AM (CommentID #390859)
I am in the same boat!! my phone is a sidekick and they are upgrading me to the dash b/c of all the issues my sidekick has. I am also going to school full time and the sidekick is just a joke. Let me know how the dash is working
By Chris , 03/12/07 11:04 PM (CommentID #383564)
I bought my dash in March 07. After having it for three months, the screen turned completely white. The phone was on and I could here the sounds as I pressed buttons, but nothing on the screen but white light. I called T-Mobile and they sent me a replacement dash. After having the second dash after another three months, the phone would go in and out of service. The reception bars were all full but I had no reception. All my calls would go straight to voicemail. And I could not log on to the internet or get emails. After calling T-Mobile to see if I had somehow messed up a setting, they told me that I should reboot the phone at least once a day. I hated doing that because the dash takes 5 minutes to reboot. After that didn't fix the problem, T-Mobile said that it might be the SIM card. I got a new SIM card and that did not fix the problem. I know it was not the SIM card because I put the SIM card in my Razor and it worked fine. I once again called T-Mobile and told them it wasn't the SIM card, and now they say that there was a cell tower that was down in my area. I new this wasn't the problem because the same thing was happening at work. Since September I was going back and forth with T-Mobile as they would always come up with a reason why it was not working. Last week they sent me a third replacement and guess what, SAME DAMN PROBLEM!!!!. I finally got so frustrated with T-Mobile and complained to a "supervisor" that I paid $250 for a phone that does not work and I am paying for unlimited email and internet that I can't use because of the phone. The supervisor asked if I wanted another Dash. I said NOOOOOOOO!!!!! I received THREE Dsahes that do not work. The phone SUCKS. T-Mobile agreed to send me a Blackberry 8700. I have had the phone now for 5 days and have had absolutely no problems with email, internet, or phone calls. Besides, with the Blackberry my emails are received in realtime, unlike the Dash where you have to manually send/recieve emails (or set it up to auto send/reciev every five minutes). The Dash is a good looking phone with a great camera, but what good is the camera on a phone if you can't make any calls or receive your emails. I think the Dash sucks and T-Mobile knows it. After all the bull crap excuses they gave me, my Blackberry works perfectly fine, waaayyyy better then the Dash ever did. My true advice from experience - DO NOT BUY THE DASH, IT REALLY SUCKS!!!
By ignacio , 30/11/07 8:50 AM (CommentID #380491)
i hate my stupid dash. i have it since may and it is the worse phone i ever had. i called customer service so many times that i finally gave up. i guess i have 9 more month to go until i can have another upgrade. i should go back to blackberry!
By Bob G , 26/11/07 5:14 AM (CommentID #376314)
My beef is not with the Dash (though I do agree with other posters about the lame touch-sensitive volume strip, it stinks!). I will never purchase a Windows Mobile phone again (unless Windows makes some major changes). I used to have a treo 650 using the palm OS. Sure it would crash every now and then, but I believe that is to be expected with a bunch of 3rd party software. With Windows Mobile it now crashes DAILY and I have very few 3rd party aps. I'd do without the 3rd party aps, but then I would have a gimpy phone that has a horrible calendar, a hard to find/use alarm clock, and no usable notepad. Oh how I wish my Treo wasn't stolen!
Don't buy it - get something reliable!
By FRUSTRATED! , 08/11/07 1:39 PM (CommentID #356024)
#6 COMMENT - I upgraded my DASH software as well and now I cannot send email from my phone. I have Road Runner and no one is able to help me from T-Mobile. Very frustrated because before I did the stupid software upgrade, my email worked fine. Now it's pretty much useless if the software doesn't support Road Runner email!
By Hangman , 30/10/07 9:51 AM (CommentID #349739)
Wow !!!
I am in the market for a smart phone, and was really interested in the Dash. It is the better of a numerous amount I have been researching for my needs.
However, you're comments have sold me to NOT buy the Dash. Screen problems mainly, but other issues which have been repeated here as well have prompted me to continue my search.
By the dash sucks , 25/10/07 4:25 PM (CommentID #346797)
I purchased mt dash in November of 2006. The first one would get stuck while booting up. So, I replaced it the next day. I didn't have any problems until I down loaded the Mobile 6 software. After that the battery life went to hell and a hand basket and the phone was slow and sluggish. A couple of weeks ago I had to replace it again because it would turn itself off even with a full battery. I went through the full resets and battery replacements and to no avail it still did the same damn thing. So, I replaced that one the other day. Got the new one today and I still have the same problem!! THIS REALLY SUX!!! T-Mobile was willing to replace it again or swap it out for the Blackberry 8700 at no charge. The 8700 is obviously outdated!! Or I could pay full price for the Blackberry curve at $499. Yeah right!! I'm not eligible for an upgrade discount until November of 2008. Once my contract is up, T-mobile can KISS MY ASS!!!!!!!! Buyer beware!!!! The dash is a peice of Sh*t!!!!!
By Hate the dash!!! , 19/10/07 2:51 PM (CommentID #339461)
My dash is a piece of shit, I it had for awhile. My screen cracked, I to have screen all my calls, via voice mail. I can't read any text mess, to get a new one is $100. Reading all these comments about the screen, hell no...no more dash for me I'm going nextel:)
By gabrielleS , 13/10/07 4:18 PM (CommentID #334008)
Had my phone for 2 months. Didn't get insurance on it and since this was a large purchase for me I am very careful with it. Well, you guessed it. The screen 'cracked' there is no visible crack only a white screen with black streaks and I can't even make or receive phone calls. I didn't drop it, bump into anything nothing! I have now money for a new phone. Took it to TMobile who said that it's an "impact" and I would have to buy a new phone that it's not covered under Manufacturer's warranty.
By J. Denney , 09/10/07 11:38 AM (CommentID #329504)
I have had mine for a few months now, and I am very pleased with it. Fits in the pocket nice, all the features I was looking for. It looks and feels right. I bought mine online and use ATT for a carrier. I wanted a phone with WiFi, ATT doesn't seem to want you to have it. The web browser was disappointing, but I haven't tried it since I upgraded the OS.
By Intrepidacious , 09/10/07 6:11 AM (CommentID #329199)
My wife and I are enjoying our new Dashes. They've been rock-stable and battery life on mine has been great (several days' worth). My wife has hed less battery life, but she does talk with all her girlfriends a lot!
I had the issue with fre memory until I stopped that Voice Command application -- MAN did that free up a lot. I went from typically under 11MB to having over 19MB free after turning off the "always available" setting.
By Cheryl , 02/10/07 6:33 PM (CommentID #320330)
I bought the Dash this past spring. Yes, the volume strip is a pain but the worst is e-mail. Since the end of August, when TMobile had an internal upgrade, I have not been able to send e-mail from my phone. After multiple calls and long discussions with Techs who could not help, it appears that the last Tech finally acknowledged and read me a memo saying that the Dash and its software does not communicate "relay" with my provider Road Runner. I will never be able to send email from this phone. Apparently, the Dash does not communicate well with Earthlink and a few others as well. I told them that I did not know that when I bought the phone. I said that I would cancel my service if I was not able to get another phone. TMobile will give me a Blackberry (Blackberry communicates with Road Runner) but I have to pay for it!! Yes, with a "mini discount" as if I had originally bought it, the Blackberry, instead of the Dash when I extended my contract. I don't think I should have to pay for a brand new phone because of technical incompatability that I was un aware of. Certainly not for a month of service that I did not receive. I should also mention that I have not had a problem with the screen but the while recently charging the phone it and the adapter got very hot and started to smoke. They sent a new Dash and assured me that the new piece of hardward would solve my email problems. Sorry. Buyer beware of the Dash it is a piece of junk.
By eddie , 29/09/07 5:36 AM (CommentID #316629)
Can u play music on your myspace page wit the dash
By jbutler , 27/09/07 6:05 PM (CommentID #314789)
thanks guys. much help
By Jason in NYC , 25/09/07 1:41 PM (CommentID #312659)
Regarding Cracked Screens.
I filed an online complaint with the FCC, and sent the complaint number to T-Mobile. They sent me a brand new Pearl instead of a Dash; at least they finally responded. Don't waste your time with Customer Service at T-Mobile untile you file a complaint with the FCC. T-Mobile told me they couldn't help me at least 5 times, but as soon as I filed a complaint wih the FCC they acted right away.
By Monique , 23/09/07 7:21 PM (CommentID #310635)
I have a sidekick 3. and it was great for the few months I had it but now its driving me insane. this is my second one. I was on the phone with tmobile all day and their not doing anything about it. the blacklighting completely sucks and the usb cable refuses to work on this one.. and not only that, the glitching with aim pisses me off! I had to shut off the volume because while I was at work all my buddies would sign off at the same time. and even restarting the phone, the sidekick doesn't read my sim card. I'm just completely fed up with it. I got plenty of "oooohs" and "ahhhhs" from it but honestly, I'm not out to make a fashion statement. this is basically a kiddy phone and now that I'm turning 20, in college, and working all the time, I deff don't it. I ordered my dash today. with an extended 2 yr contract and paid full price. I'm a lil nervous w all these comments about the dash. I have played w it before and I was shocked at what this phone can do. hopefully, crossing my fingers, I don't get bad luck w this phone..
By mp , 17/09/07 7:25 AM (CommentID #303694)
for those of you that have "cracked" screens, do you use the case with the magnet in it?
By TDavis , 15/09/07 12:05 AM (CommentID #301570)
I have only read one comment about sending and receiving pics and songs via bluetooth. I'm confused because I can send but I can't receive. Thats weird because I thought you couldn't send or receive. Does anyone know?
By megan marie , 14/09/07 8:45 PM (CommentID #301496)
damn... just got this phone in the mail today. was reallyl excited about it until now. guess ill be sending it back.
By Ruffneck Nine One , 12/09/07 12:26 AM (CommentID #298600)
T Mobile corporate office phone 425-378-4000 19290 SE 38th St Bellevue, Wa 98006 Call them direct
By HATE! , 10/09/07 11:53 AM (CommentID #296968)
does anyone know a way to get the t-mobile corporate number?an employee told me this would be the only way to get a free dash or get out of my contract, but of course can't give me the number himself!
By Obey1811 , 01/09/07 7:21 AM (CommentID #287827)
I had the same problem with the screen cracking and I bought a replacement lcd for 60 bucks and got the case and screw driver for the dash. Fixed in less than 30 min. Its worth the time and research if you wanna fix it your self.
By Jason in NYC , 31/08/07 8:16 AM (CommentID #286690)
The screen has broke on my TMOBILE DASH ... TWICE! I've gone though 2 phones in 2 Weeks! TMOBILE refuses to send me a new one. This phone is BRITTLE! Don't waste your money! Jason
By Niranjan , 30/08/07 2:58 AM (CommentID #285134)
I ve been using the Dopod C720w (same as T-mobile dash) since almost a month now n its working just fine. No problems with the screen or the Wifi.file transfer through bluetooth is no problem at all.lots of 3rd party applications available for free (search at the right places on the internet)and work just fine.
I m really surprised with so many ppl sayin above about the screen cracking problem.I really dont think it would happen without some sort of mishandling. no offence...
cheers...
By cleaniedini , 28/08/07 5:32 AM (CommentID #283133)
This is the worst smart phone ever. I have had two and both screens cracked, my best friend had one and his screen cracked. Even with the phone "insurance" it was $100 to replace it. If anyone else knows of some others with this problem can group up to get T-Mobile to take responsibility for the trash products they put their name on let me know.
dini@cleaniedini.com
By I HATE THE DASH , 26/08/07 8:46 PM (CommentID #281816)
After having my dash for only a month or 2, the lcd screen cracked/leaked after just pulling it out of my pocket! I know one other person with this phone and theirs did the same!! when is t-mobile going to realize they need to recall this piece of s**t or at least not charge us $110 to buy another one just to have it break a few months later!!! I saw on ebay that you can buy an lcd screen but must have it professionally installed..is this worth it or should I just invest in something better?
By GDELA , 21/08/07 10:26 PM (CommentID #277922)
IV HAD MY DASH SINCE THE DAY IT CAME OUT AND I THINK AND AND HAVE BEEN TOLD BY COMPUTER WIZZES THAT EVERY PENNY INVESTED IS WELL WORTH IT, AND BELIEVE ME IT IS, AT FIRST I FELT LIKE A ROOKIE FOR THE FIRST TIME ON A COMPUTER, AFTER A MONTH OD READING AND PLAYING WITH THE PHONE IM PLAYING CONTRA FROM NINTENDO FROM LIKE 1985, AND ON THE COMMENT AT THE TOP "KEN" I THINK THAT JUST BAD LUCK WITH THE PHONE , MY DASH HAS BEEN THRU HELL WITH ME , THE LAST THING I DID TO IT WAS , I HAD IT ON MY LAP WHILE DRIVING AND I FOR GOT IT WAS THERE AND AS I GOT OUT OF THE CAR ACCIDENTLY KICKED IT ALMOST ACCROS THE STREET AND ONLY HAD A FEW SCRATCHES AND SCREEN NOT A SCRATCH ON IT, MAYBE NOT THE PHONE FOR YOU.
By bmono , 19/08/07 7:41 AM (CommentID #275525)
Having a horrible time with yahoo email. Tech support says the engineers have been wrestling with this for a while. First we had to change something in GPRS settings ... and now I am receiving emails just fine, but I can't send them. I've probably called tech support, for real, like once a week since I've had it (which is roughly 6 weeks). Anyone else have this problem? Besides this, I've had a good experience with the rest of the phone; just the email has been very bad.
By Ken , 18/08/07 8:26 PM (CommentID #275192)
*DO NOT BUY THIS PHONE*
I purchased this phone outright from T Mobile, brand new, without a discount, in April of 07. I agree with alot of the complaints on the OS and bugs, BUT THE MAIN PROBLEM IS THE SCREEN!!!!! Near the end of July the screen cracked on the inside for no apparent reason, it was in the case, no drops, dings or scratches. After calling tech support, they agreed to send me a replacement at no cost, 2 days ago I was in the middle of a phone call, when I heard a slight glass breaking noise, I pulled it away from my ear to see the screen actually cracking and changing colors. Now youi would figure after two phones T Mobile would agree theres a problem, NOPE the want to send me another one, or a Pearl as a replacement. The coments posted here confirm my troubles, THE DASH IS A WASTE. And for Googles sake, and many more who will have the same troubles, T Mobile Dash Screen Cracks.
By murogin , 10/08/07 4:06 PM (CommentID #268028)
I 100% concur with comments by Terrible.
The software is simply too buggy (the stupid alarm bug drives me nuts. It's still present in the WM6 upgrade)
Looks like there's a trend withthe mysterious cracking screen. My screen cracked yesterday for no obvious reason. Looks like it's time for some DIY LCD replacement lessons :( because T-Mobile won't own up to the fact that this phone is a piece of crap
By pruitt , 08/08/07 12:30 PM (CommentID #266299)
I bought a Dash from one of the discount websites last week and after a little trouble porting my number over, it's been great. I don't need to check my email all that often, and Austin has hundreds of free wifi spots (including the one I have in my house) so I didn't bother paying for the $30 per month data plan... it hasn't been an issue. It's a great little phone, especially after the upgrade to windows mobile 6
By Aly-Cat , 29/07/07 6:04 PM (CommentID #257563)
I got the Dash because it supported more features than any of the other T-Mobile handhelds, including T-Zones/T-Mobile web. I switched from a RAZR so I could use my T-Mobile Web on a handheld. After I purchased the device (new, unopened on ebay because t-mobile wouldn't allow me the special for another 5 months) and set it up I couldn't figure out why I couldn't check my email. I played with settings for a week. The "zones" I was able open didn't load completely as was the case when I used the we-fi feature. Since I have wireless internet in my home I had wi-fi access but the pages would load partially and not allow use of buttons: search, etc, not allow scrolling or going back a page and just hang there. I called T-Mobile tech support and they told me that the Dash no longer supports T-zones because people who did not pay for service took advantage for free!!! I had to switch to the $29.99 t-mobile internet despite the fact that I have internet access at home and at work just to check my email.
The reviewer said he could use the wi-fi feature but was that with t-mobile web, t-mobile internet or no extra features? It works fine using the $29.99 t-mobile internet..hmmm.
Additionally, I cannot find my Outlook contacts anywhere and the volume scroll feature only works when I am not trying to get it to work. Handango, which loaded from the disc, doesn't support the phone, according to the page. I, too, can't find a notepad.
By mackenzie kimball , 25/07/07 6:30 PM (CommentID #253997)
i just got the dash and i love the feel of it. but i can't figure out how to use the sync thing with windows media player. it is not working and i have gone through all the steps properly and it says there is no connection. it is pissing me off. oh and for the problem with the volume strip on the side you can disable it so it doesnt move up and down when you touch it!
By Kat , 10/07/07 4:15 PM (CommentID #238731)
I had the Dolce & Gabbanna phone.. I wanted to go with something more sophisticated, so I went with the Blackberry Pearl. (That I assumed would have the same features but better..) I've realized that the time doesn't automatically set, you have to set it manually.. this is a horrible feature for me since I travel A LOT.. No Video capture... I assumed it would have it.. no AIM,MSN,ICQ except when you pay for it... can't get the picture msgs to work.. I'm assuming you have to pay for the internet for that.. and no WiFi... Does The Dash include these features already with the phone? After reading the reviews, and features carefully I believe it does... the only thing that bothers me is the wideness.. i held it in my hand and keeps wanting to fall out.. if you could please e-mail me some feedback that would be great. destinyunfurled@Hotmail.com
By Khuong , 09/07/07 2:28 AM (CommentID #236586)
Hey guys, do all of you find out that T-Mobile DAsh can not send or receive files (musics and pics) via Bluetooth?
Do I right?
By DJ , 14/06/07 1:40 AM (CommentID #205692)
After more than 10 cell phones since the mid 90's this phone may just be THE PHONE, it works-- it was easy to use the interface. Wi Fi is just great...the phone seems to have a large enough processor and ram. Over all very pleased. Battery might be a slight problem.
By Dom , 06/06/07 12:50 AM (CommentID #197175)
I had my Dash for 3 months and the screen has just cracked. I didn't drop it or knock it, it just cracked. The device is great, but the screen is way to fragile for a modile device.
By tori , 05/06/07 10:07 AM (CommentID #196519)
i hate my Dash, the volume strip is right where my finger wants to hold it to my ear and i can't hear the caller unless volume is top, the outlook file for contacts doesn't synchronize with my csv export from my old treo, and there are too many clicks to go through buttons to perform most functions. If it were not for the semi easy use of camera and good resolution i would have junked it long ago. Anyone who asks i say don't buy it, and a friend who ignored me, now hates his too!
By Terrible! , 21/05/07 12:15 PM (CommentID #176921)
I would have agreed that this phone was great when I first got it but after using it for a while my opinion has changed.
- the O/S is slow and unresponsive. Its like running XP on 128MB of RAM and a 5GB hard disk. key responses are slow, screen updates are slow
- battery life is horrible. I can drain the battery from a full charge to completely dead (won't even turn on) in 55 minutes via a conference call or surfing the web
- the alarm app crashes or duplicates alarms. Setting an alarm for 5am one day then 7am the next will cause the alarm to go off at 5am AND 7am everyday. There is a third party app that you have to install to clear the queue. The alarm app occasionally crashes so you don't get any notifications.
- the phone app crashes occasionally so you can't end the call or receive calls. Sometimes you won't even notice the battery is dead or the phone app has crashed until you've missed several important calls.
- pressing the camera button will return this error a fair amount of the time forcing you to pull the battery (which takes close to a minute and your subject has probably moved on by then)
"Unable to start camera. Not enough memory. To free up memory close Unused application using the Task Manager in the Start Menu".
- the Tasks section is cheesy and 3rd party aps are expensive.
- the time zones for the phone changes on its own for no apparent reason (its actually buried in the menus so you can't change it unintentionally) so you have to guess weather or not the appointment time is accurate. If you check Outlook then it will report the correct time even if the phone doesn't. Syncing the phone doesn't always correct this problem.
- the predictive text is buggy. Turning it off only disables it for that particular function and resetting the phone (usually because of low memory errors) will reset the predictive text configuration to its defaults. I can't use it to write emails anymore because I can't trust the phone and its too slow to use.
- the NOTES section is missing completely from this O/S. I'm not sure I understand why considering both Outlook, Exchange and even Evolution can display my notes.
- the wifi only works if you're sitting right next to the access point. In some instances a laptop reporting a "strong signal" will report "poor signal" on the phone. I've configured the phone to simply use GPRS 100% of the time and disabled the wifi adapter because its not very useful. Changing the configuration to performance will drain the battery from full within minutes.
Please note that 99% of these complains are directed towards Windows Mobile so they apply to any phone running Windows Mobile that meet these specs. Unfortunately I also have to give some blame to HTC for under powering the phone (considering their choice of O/S) and providing far too little RAM to make the phone functional. Now.. If you only use the phone for making phone calls, and you are okay with the phone app crashing occasionally (which prevents you from making and receiving calls) then this is a fine phone otherwise find an alternative.
I gave this a "terrible" rating because no matter how attractive WiFi is, or the call quality is, it doesn't matter if you can't actually use these function because they aren't stable enough.
By Hubert , 05/05/07 4:00 PM (CommentID #160482)
Interestingly enough, the actual Dash used in this review also has a cracked screen... We have not been able to find out why.
By DASH SUX A$$! , 05/05/07 2:50 PM (CommentID #160425)
Had it only 12 days and the screen cracked. There is not visible crack on the outside, it cracked on the inside and t-mobile will not exchange it. I did not drop it or hit it against anything, the screen just went out. Dont get the phone it is a waste of money. :(
By karim , 24/03/07 9:08 AM (CommentID #122458)
i bought a dash 2 weeks ago the lcd broke its to sencitive is there a way i can repair it for cheap Karimkv786@yahoo.com
By Paul , 02/01/07 3:55 PM (CommentID #080234)
#1 Andy yes there is a notes program that you can install on the Dash you can find it on handango.com the download is $19.99 and it allows you to create notes, edit html and a few other cool things.
By Hubert , 29/12/06 10:38 AM (CommentID #078240)
Bovril, if you could post a few links (or email them to contact@ubergizmo.com), I could update the review. Thanks for participating.
By Hubert , 29/12/06 10:36 AM (CommentID #078239)
There's no extra cost to use Wi-Fi!
By bovril , 29/12/06 8:52 AM (CommentID #078214)
Just a quick couple of points on the Dash. Just got one and I like it a lot.
The nasty litle volume strip on the right, can with one registry change, revert to the proper scroll up, down, start, back function.
For push email, you can get a copy of Blackberry connnect for smartphone software and connect to your corporate email and calendar.
Changes above can be found on various of the "How to hack my Dash" sites......
By wifi extra cost? , 26/12/06 1:47 PM (CommentID #077582)
Hey, the guy at the store told me that with the Dash you have to pay for a service to get the wiFi to work. So even if i have a wifi network at home the Dash won't work on it unless I pay extra. is this true? if so that's a deal breaker for me. Thanks!
By FinnDaddy , 24/12/06 2:06 PM (CommentID #076967)
I have been using the T-Mobile Dash for about ten days. My Treo 650 bit the dust due to backend incompatibility with my company's latest rendition of GoodLink (enterprise software that connects smartphones to MS Outlook Exchange Server through a secure proprietary interface).
The Dash interface is different enough to require some speed-up time. The touch screen is missed but not acutely so.
What I do miss is the lack of caller ID interface with GoodLink. On my Treo I would get caller ID from every caller in my Outlook contacts. No more.
Also, the lack of a phone dial interface on the screen is going to be a problem when I call companies that have VOIP. There is no way to visually reference the letter relationship with phone dial numbers.
Am I missing something?
-=FD
By get it , 09/12/06 8:26 PM (CommentID #073083)
this is the best phone.. great video capture for a phone.. i bootlegged SAW III and Vegas shows with it... everything is great except the volume thing.. they seemed to give up on it.. just turn that off and you're good.. the WiFi shiffer is awesome and works real smartly.. later
By Hubert , 30/11/06 3:08 PM (CommentID #070475)
There is a pre-installed notepad application. It should be in the program menu.
By Andy , 27/11/06 11:42 AM (CommentID #069714)
I am looking for some help. I have Dash for couple days and try to figure out how can I save notes to the device. I have Treo600 before, which I can create note and save for future use, I cannot find such function in the Dash, do you have any idea is there any additional notepad software that I can install on Dash to make it work.
thanks for million
By jbharuch , 23/11/06 9:07 AM (CommentID #068028)
just the review i was looking for. thanks!
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