all right
This is an excellent deal and value at the current 30 dollar price. Without activation, it can serve as a camera, a GPS, an MP3 player, a mini-tablet, e-reader, web browser (limited), and so on. I had no trouble using it right out of the box without any updates. So you could just use it that way if so inclined. I did two updates after playing around, first the basic 8.0 update to prepare for the 8.1, and then the Windows 8.1 update itself. The first took only about 10-15 minutes, the second over an hour (be very patient and do not rush it). However, once done, everything is working fine and there are a few new features (like being able to turn off the haptic feedback [the vibrate when you press a button feature]).
A big plus, in my opinion, is the FREE Nokia Music app which provides great music for free with no ads. For 30 bucks, it would be worth buying just for this, in my opinion. The sound quality is very good - over headphones or via Bluetooth speaker(s). And, of course, you can pop in a micro-SD card with all your own MP3's as well. Nice! The app itself will let you save music offline (limited to 4 mixes in free version, unlimited mixes for 3.99 a month) as well. Neat!
The GPS is excellent as well and the HERE driving app is good if not great. The maps and routes are excellent, but the features are limited in other areas. But, hey, a GPS for 30 bucks that also is an mp3 player? Cool! (It picks up satellites very well and works great, but you need wifi to set it up. Once that's done, it can guide you offline. Still learning it.) (Update: It has worked very well on local trips. It incldues a speed limit feature and you wil hear two tones if you exceed the speed limit. This worked well and was very accurate. Could save you from getting a ticket which would more than pay for this thing.)
The screen is excellent. Everything works fine. Camera is OK. Plenty of apps in my opinion. Another big plus for me is that I already have an older AT&T GoPhone, so I can switch my phone service to this if I wish (I have not yet, because I'm happy with my old phone. Great battery life and a pop-out keyboard which I prefer). Battery life is good (not great, but good).
All in all, if you are the do-it-yourself type - this is an outstanding toy to fool around with. And the GoPhone packages are very reasonable. I have been very happy with my older GoPhone and the service has always been fine. I highly recommend this at the current low price.Read full review
