We get a lot of questions from Mac users who want to know if they can sync their phones with their Macs, and it's no wonder. Windows PCs are definitely the most widely supported platform right now, and almost all cell phones can be synced with the PC. That is, unfortunately, not always the case with the Mac. However, certain phones can by synced with OS X applications, especially if you know how to use third-party syncing plug-ins and applications. We have to warn you though; most, if not all of, Verizon phones do not support syncing with the Mac. This is because Verizon often requires you to use their proprietary PC software. Also, most of these third-party plug-ins and applications require at least OS X Tiger (10.4).
Of course, if you don't want to bother with third-party help of any kind, Apple's iPhone is probably the best bet when it comes to syncing with your calendar and address book. Not everyone has AT&T as a cell provider, however, and the iPhone isn't right for everyone, so we wanted to provide you with some options. Sony Ericsson is probably one of the most Mac-compatible cell phone manufacturer out there, thanks to the iSync plug-ins that you can download directly from Sony Ericsson. The Sony Ericsson P1i is a pricey, but unlocked, smartphone that we really like, thanks to its 3.2-megapixel camera and Wi-Fi capabilities. However, it doesn't support 3G, which is a downer. Another Sony Ericsson phone that we know is compatible with the Mac is the Sony Ericsson W850i Walkman phone. Note that you have to download a different kind of iSync plug-in for this phone.
If you're a Nokia fan, you're also in luck. A lot of Nokia phones are Mac-compatible, especially its line of N-series smartphones. The Nokia N95 is one of our favorites, because of its 5-megapixel camera, GPS-capabilities, Wi-Fi support, and all-around wealth of features. You can get Nokia's iSync plug-in by visiting their site. All you have is a normal Motorola Razr V3, you say? There again, you're in luck, as quite a few Motorola phones are supported by the Mac. The Razr V3 is compatible, as is the more recent Krzr K1.
Palm devices have also traditionally been Mac-supported. You do, however, have to download Missing Sync software for the Palm OS by Mark/Space if you want to be able to sync calendar and address book information. We recommend the Palm Centro, especially for those who are new to smartphones. Last but not least, BlackBerry phones can also be synced with OS X, and we recommend that you follow our tips on how to do so (Hint: We like the Missing Sync for BlackBerry application). The BlackBerry Curve from T-Mobile is pretty cool, thanks to its Wi-Fi support and capability to make calls.
For more reference, we recommend you check out the iSync compatibility list on Apple's Web site, which gets updated from time to time.
The good: The Apple iPhone has a stunning display, a sleek design and an innovative multi-touch user interface. Its Safari browser makes for a superb Web surfing experience, and it offers easy-to-use apps. As an iPod, it shines.
The bad: The Apple iPhone has variable call quality and lacks some basic features found on many cell phones, including stereo Bluetooth support and 3G compatibility. Integrated memory is stingy for an iPod, and you have to sync the iPhone to manage music content.
The bottom line: Despite some important missing features, a slow data network and call quality that doesn't always deliver, the Apple iPhone sets a new benchmark for an integrated cell phone and MP3 player. Check Prices
The good: The Sony Ericsson W850i has great performance and a wealth of features, including a 2-megapixel camera, Bluetooth and a digital music player.
The bad: The Sony Ericsson W850i has poorly designed navigation controls and limited integrated memory.
The bottom line: The Sony Ericsson W850i offers the great performance and high-end features we've come to expect from the company's Walkman phones, but its usability is hampered by unintuitive controls. Check Prices
The good: The Nokia N95 North American Edition adds 3G support and longer battery life. The Symbian smartphone also continues to offer a 5-megapixel camera and integrated GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
The bad: Without the back of a U.S. carrier, the Nokia N95 is expensive and the hardware feels a bit plastic. Speakerphone quality wasn't the greatest.
The bottom line: The North American Edition of the Nokia N95 brings some notable additions, including 3G support and better performance, to make this powerful smartphone even better. However, it'll still leave a deep gouge in your wallet. Check Prices
The good: The MOTODRZR K1 offers good call quality and comes with Bluetooth, a 2-megapixel camera and a speakerphone.
The bad: The MOTODRZR K1 lacks 3G support and external music controls.
The bottom line: Though the GSM MOTODRZR K1 has a more attractive color scheme than the CDMA KRZR K1m, some feature differences make it mostly comparable with its sibling. Check Prices
The good: The Palm Centro sheds some of the weight and bulk of the Palm Treo to make for a more compact smartphone. It also carries an attractive price tag and offers a lot for the money, including Bluetooth, EV-DO support, push e-mail, and a suite of productivity apps.
The bad: The Centro's QWERTY keyboard is extremely cramped and the hardware feels a bit toylike. The phone's speaker is on the weaker side, and it lacks Wi-Fi.
The bottom line: The Palm Centro isn't the innovative product we were looking for from the company, but with its slimmer size, ease of use, and affordable price tag, the Centro is a good option for those looking for their first smartphone. Check Prices
The good: The RIM BlackBerry 8320 offers integrated Wi-Fi and works with T-Mobile's HotSpot@Home service so you can make calls via Wi-Fi. The smartphone also features a nice, sleek design; a spacious QWERTY keyboard; a 2-megapixel camera; popular IM clients; and good call quality.
The bad: The Curve's camera can't record videos, and there's no 3G support. The BlackBerry Web browser isn't quite as sophisticated as those on competing smartphones.
The bottom line: The RIM BlackBerry Curve (aka BlackBerry 8320) for T-Mobile is the best BlackBerry we've seen to date as it offers Wi-Fi, best-of-breed design and excellent performance. Check Prices
Article Suggested By:
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READER COMMENTS:
( 3 posts )
Tue, Apr.1st 2008
at 06:07:16 EST Rating: n/a
linuxsays:
anyone who wanks over thier mac is really sad. its only a god damn computer
Sun, Mar.30th 2008
at 21:18:46 EST Rating: n/a
crackberrysays:
The blackberry doesn't actually play nice. You have to download software, and it doesn't even sync using bluetooth - very annoying.
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