Integrated Voice, Data, and Productivity in a Slim Slider‑Phone
The Siemens SX66, sold through Cingular, marries a quad‑band GSM “world phone” with a full Windows Mobile 2003 Second Edition PDA. Designed for professionals who need to stay connected whether they’re at home, on the road, or in the field, the SX66 delivers voice, data, and a built‑in keyboard in a single, lightweight package.
At a glance, the SX66 feels like a traditional mobile phone. Its slider mechanism hides a QWERTY keyboard beneath a 3.5‑inch transflective TFT‑LCD touch screen. When you slide the phone open, a full‑screen interface appears, displaying the familiar Windows Mobile desktop. The screen supports 64,000 colors at a resolution of 240 by 320 pixels, offering clear visuals for emails, documents, and maps.
Under the hood, the device is powered by an Intel PXA263 processor clocked at 400 MHz. Up to 128 MB of internal memory lets users install business applications directly on the handset. An SD slot expands storage further, accommodating photos, documents, and music libraries. Connectivity extends beyond cellular networks; the SX66 includes Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and an infrared port for short‑range data exchange. USB synchronization supports rapid data transfer to and from a PC.
Cingular’s GPRS network provides high‑speed data access, while Wi‑Fi integration allows users to connect to office networks or public hotspots. The built‑in VPN client ensures secure connections to corporate resources, enabling remote workers to access intranet sites, file shares, and other protected services without compromising security.
Battery life is a key selling point for travelers. The SX66 offers up to eight days of standby time and four hours of talk time on a single charge, thanks to its efficient power management and a rechargeable lithium‑ion battery. Its compact dimensions – 2.82 inches wide, 4.92 inches high, and 0.74 inches thick – combine with a weight of just 7.4 ounces to make it easy to carry in a briefcase or even a large pocket.
Included accessories create a complete professional package. Users receive a headset for hands‑free calls, a spare stylus for touchscreen navigation, a travel charger, a DC jack converter for power outlets abroad, and a carrying case. This kit ensures that the SX66 can serve as an all‑in‑one tool for meetings, data entry, and entertainment, no matter where the day takes the user.
The device also offers multimedia features uncommon in business handsets of its time. It supports MMS, an integrated MP3 stereo player, and video playback, making it a convenient companion for downtime. Windows Mobile’s native applications – Outlook Mobile, Word Mobile, Excel Mobile, MSN Messenger, Internet Explorer, and Windows Media Player – provide familiar productivity tools that reduce the learning curve for users already comfortable with Microsoft Office and other Windows products.
With the SX66, Cingular, Siemens, and Microsoft converge to deliver a product that meets the demands of modern business travelers. By blending robust cellular coverage, versatile data connectivity, and powerful on‑device applications, the handset promises to become an extension of any office, allowing users to manage calendars, inboxes, contacts, and tasks from anywhere.
For the enterprise, the SX66 also supports the compact Microsoft .NET Framework. This enables existing IT investments in .NET applications to be ported to the mobile platform with minimal effort, extending the life of software and reducing development costs. The result is a consistent experience across desktops and mobile devices, easing the burden on IT departments and improving end‑user satisfaction.
Business‑Focused Design and Software Ecosystem for Maximum Productivity
The SX66’s slider design and hidden keyboard address a core challenge for business users: accessing a full screen without sacrificing the tactile feel of a traditional keypad. By sliding the device open, users unlock a 3.5‑inch display that presents a clear Windows Mobile desktop. The QWERTY keyboard remains flush with the chassis, making it easy to type emails, create documents, or fill out forms while on the move.
Beyond basic messaging, the handset offers a suite of integrated tools that mirror the functionality of office software. Outlook Mobile provides real‑time access to calendars, contacts, tasks, and inbox items, while Word Mobile and Excel Mobile allow users to create, edit, and share documents directly from the field. The familiar interfaces reduce the learning curve, and the ability to work on documents offline means that users can stay productive even when connectivity is spotty.
The inclusion of Microsoft’s second‑edition Windows Mobile software brings advanced features such as seamless synchronization with desktop versions of Office, Windows Media Player, and Internet Explorer. Users can sync their data via USB or over the air, ensuring that files and contacts are always up to date. The OS also supports the installation of third‑party applications, expanding the device’s capabilities to fit specific business needs.
Security is handled through multiple layers. The VPN client encrypts data as it travels across public networks, safeguarding corporate information. Bluetooth pairing can be secured with passkeys, and the device’s infrared port supports secure file transfers when proximity is guaranteed. These measures allow businesses to trust the SX66 with sensitive information while maintaining compliance with industry standards.
Powerful connectivity is another cornerstone of the SX66’s business value. The phone operates on a quad‑band GSM network, covering the 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz frequencies used worldwide. This ensures global roaming capabilities, making the device a reliable choice for international travel. Complemented by Wi‑Fi, the handset can tap into local hotspots, office networks, or enterprise access points for faster data transfer and reduced cellular data costs.
The battery life – up to eight days of standby and four hours of talk time – supports extended trips without frequent recharging. The included travel charger and DC jack converter make it simple to plug into various outlets, while the carrying case offers protection against scratches and impacts. This level of portability, combined with robust hardware, positions the SX66 as a true mobile office.
From an IT perspective, the SX66’s integration with .NET and Windows Mobile eases deployment and support. Administrators can push updates, enforce security policies, and manage device configurations through existing management tools. The ability to run custom applications that interface directly with corporate databases or ERP systems further enhances the device’s utility in specialized business contexts.
For those seeking entertainment on the go, the SX66 does not disappoint. Built‑in MP3 playback, video support, and Windows Media Player provide a multimedia experience that keeps users engaged during downtime. The device’s color screen and responsive touch interface enhance the viewing experience, while the battery’s longevity ensures that music and videos can be enjoyed throughout long flights or road trips.
In sum, the Siemens SX66 offered by Cingular delivers a blend of robust hardware, comprehensive connectivity, and a full suite of productivity tools tailored for the modern business traveler. Its design prioritizes usability, security, and performance, ensuring that professionals can stay connected, manage critical data, and maintain productivity wherever they go.
