As technology makes new devices of existing gadgets, with fresh functions added to them each day, mobile phones are the favoured ground for experimentation. Few gadgets have evolved as fast as the cell phone, which has literally branched into new species like the flip open, screen and buttons, slider and the newer multimedia variety. Even as the bodies have lost bulk, a new spectrum of functions has been added. Samsung J600 is one such phone.

It packs all essentials while taking the first, firm steps into the brave, not-so-new world of multimedia. Targeted at low-end users, it comes in a range of dazzling colours, which is primarily an eye-catching tactic; the bright metallic blue, for instance, is a must-have for Govinda fans. After recovering sufficiently from the blinding sheen, check out its features.

The J600 has a single screen, which offers more than 65,000 colours on a tiny 1.9-inch screen. Right below the screen is the most interesting feature: four touch-sensitive keys (more like spots) that make taking and making calls a breeze. You don’t have to look for a tiny button; instead, sliding your finger over the spot fires up the functions.

However, the appeal of the touch keys is mitigated by the large direction key and centre button placed smack in the middle of the phone. Though this makes perfect sense when navigating through the menu or surfing the Web, one wonders why it couldn’t be used for taking calls as well.

The phone is equipped with an FM player and channels that can be easily set. It also has a music player, a 1.3-megapixel camera and can store 1,000 phone numbers with contact details. For connectivity, the phone has Bluetooth, WAP and USB. This makes transferring music, videos or even MMS a one-touch affair.

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