Nokia 6133 offers a sleek push-button flip release unleashing multimedia features such as an FM radio, 1.3-megapixel camera, dual vibrant color LCDs, and video options such as video ring displays. However, the pros lead to cons that have some consumers upset.
The classic Nokia reputation of simplicity is inherent in the Nokia 6133, however the quality is somewhat lacking with a flimsy flip frame, lower than documented battery life, odd numeric design and misplaced camera button and microSD slot.
The clamshell layout ideally protects the keys and internal screen; however the style of the black soft rubber exterior is debatable. Not quite the phone for the fashionista, the muted black silhouette against the shiny silver makes the 6133 look rather sporty.
At the top of the frontplate sits the 1.3-megapixel camera. While it does not have a mirror for vanity shots, the 120 x 160 px exterior display works as a mirror in Camera Mode.
The backplate is constructed with the same rubbery texture as the front, protecting the battery, SIM card, and oddly placed microSD slot. Able to be removed while the phone is in use, the microSD card is inconveniently located under the backplate. The battery charger and USB port plug into the top of the phone making it extremely difficult to talk on the phone while charging it. The power button lies below the camera button on the left side of the phone, making it difficult for left-handed consumers to take vanity shots, and making it easy for the camera button to be accidentally pressed.
The highlight of the Nokia 6133 that sets it apart from many clamshell phones is the inclusion of a flip button that when pressed, opens the phone. This brilliant addition seems obvious so consumers can open the phone with just one hand. While a savvy addition, the placement is a bit awkward on the top plate of the phone, and the spring is rather strong. The flip design also seems somewhat flimsy, appearing as though the top plate of the phone could easily become removed.
Once opened, the strengths of the Nokia 6133 become apparent. At 2.2-inches (240 x 320 px resolution), the 16.7 million-color screen is a true highlight. Users can choose from an array of stored themes for the interior and exterior displays. Animation, photos, graphics and text are vivid; however navigating the menu is somewhat difficult. The text is not well distinguished and as users scroll through the menu, a faded, almost non-existent marker guides them. The layout of the keypad is a bit boxy but a nice texture gives text messaging a tactile feel.
Out of the box, the Nokia 6133 comes with an 820 mAh Li-Ion Battery, Power Cable, Headphones, Quick Start Guide, and User Manual. Some users may despair the lack of a USB cable.
Basic Features
The Nokia 6133 is certainly most functional as a phone. It has standard call features and contacts storage that should meet all calling needs. Released for T-Mobile, the it features GSM quad-band (850 / 900/ 1800 / 1900 Mhz) technology, permitting the use of the handset on compatible GSM networks in North America, Europe and Asia, provided it has been unlocked.
Nokia offers its usual straightforward menu options and calling choices that make the 6133 simple to navigate without ever having to read the manual. The time and date can be set for both the internal and external displays, and the consumer has a choice to customize the wallpaper and screensaver for both screens as well.
The basic phone features are clear, and the easy-to-use speakerphone is prompted on any given call by pressing the top right key. The sound on most calls is clear, though somewhat distant. The 6133 can perform most calling basics such as call waiting, forwarding, and voice command.
The 6133 allows for access to T-Zones and the use of T-Mobile's new myFaves service, which offers unlimited nationwide calling to five U.S. phone numbers.The Nokia 6133 has several audio formats that lend to an above average sound quality, supporting MP3, AAC, AAC+, and eAAC+ file formats.
Integrating an FM radio and MP3 Player capable of holding 750 songs, the 6133 unfortunately has musical limitations. Unlike most music phones, songs cannot be downloaded from sites other than T-Mobile. Consumers have to purchase all music from T-Mobile directly, thus cutting off a large music consumer base. The 6133 also uses an optional wired stereo headset or wireless stereo headset using Bluetooth technology that must be purchased separately.
Despite the extra fees incurred to purchase music, the Nokia 6133 should meet users' expectations for a music phone. The simple menu set up and button navigation make this a good choice for those who opt for an MP3 player on their phone.
Messaging
Like on most Nokia phones, the messaging choices are straightforward and all text messaging standards are met. T-Mobile users have third party email, chat, and instant messaging capabilities preinstalled to satisfy the regular messengers.
The messenger menu opens to several options which include delivery reports, instant messages, service commands, and voice text among the standard choices. Users can also send picture or video messages along with voice notes.
Users may connect to various third-party instant messenger services via the IM icon in the messenger menu. When opened, users can choose their messaging community from AIM, ICQ, MSN Messenger, and Yahoo!. The phone also offers access to email and various chat rooms.
With text, media, email, and instant messaging available, the 6133 goes beyond the role of a simple phone and offers a complete messaging package that should satisfy most users' needs. Consumers should be reminded, however, that all Internet-based and multimedia services cost extra and requires a special subscription.The Nokia 6133 keeps users well-connected. Using Broadband speed with EDGE technology for high-speed data transmission with a WAP 2.0 compliant browser, this phone is a cut above for browsing.
For ease, T-Mobile gives its users access to T-Zones, an online multimedia service. Through the service, users can connect to the web to download music, games, wallpaper, more web applications, or access a variety of premium services.
Should users need information on the road, 411 directory assistance comes in handy. By calling live operators available 24/7, customers can get movie listings, weather reports, horoscopes, sports scores, restaurant listings, stock quotes, and more. Three listings cost $1.49. Unfortunately unlike other carriers, T-Mobile doesn't currently offer video streaming service.
With the additional fees for connection to the Internet, the Nokia 6133 provides a high-speed connection and a reliable browser that can be accessed anywhere the phone has a signal, making it an ideal tool for checking email throughout the day. In addition, the phone may used to create a wireless connection for a computer or PDA.
Storage
Given the media focus of this phone, the Nokia 6133 does not have an impressive amount of storage potential. The phone features 11.0 MB of internal storage, but memory-intensive applications can be supplemented by microSD cards, which must be purchased separately. The Nokia 6133 adequately meets connectivity demands featuring options for USB port, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, Server Sync, PC synchronization, and VPN.
USB and Bluetooth are the two most important connections the Nokia 6133 makes, but the phone does not come packaged with any connection tools, such as a USB cable. Unfortunately consumers must spend extra money for connection accessories.
As a popular and well established standard, Bluetooth technology allows consumers connection to a wireless headset, handsfree car-kit, or laptop computer within a 10 meter radius. While the phone is not fully connection friendly out of the box, it still allows consumers ample choice for connectivity.
Nokia 6133 Features
* Slim and stylish fold design with an innovative one-hand push-to-open operation for easy opening that automatically glides into position
* Wide and advanced 16.7 million-color high-resolution display (320 x 240 px) for superior browsing experience
* Integrated 1.3-megapixel camera with digital zoom up to 8x
* Digital music player supports various audio formats
* Bluetooth compatible with devices that support the headset and hands-free profiles
* Nokia S40 software with J2ME support for application, ringer, wallpaper, graphic and game downloads
* Broadband speed with EDGE technology for high-speed data transmission with WAP 2.0 compliant browser
* 11.0 MB of internal memory and miniSD memory expansion slot for additional storage
Nokia 6133 Specs
Technical Specifications
Network: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
Form Factor: Clamshell
Dimensions: 92 x 48 x 20 mm
Weight: 112 g
Antenna: Internal
Navigation: 5-Way Keypad
Battery Type: 820 mAh Li-Ion
Talk Time: 3.50
Standby Time: 300
Memory: 11.0 MB
Expandable Memory: microSD
Imaging
Main Screen: 16700000 colors (TFT)
320 x 240 px
External Screen: 262000 colors (TFT)
128 x 160 px
Camera: 1.3 MP / 1280 x 960 px / Flash / 8X Zoom / Video Recorder
Audio
MP3 Player: MP3 / MP4 / AAC / eAAC+ / WMA
FM Radio: Yes
Speakerphone: Yes
Push-To-Talk: No
Multimedia
Wallpapers: 320 x 240 px
Screen Savers: 320 x 240 px
Ring Tones: MP3
Themes: Yes
Games: J2ME / 3D Gaming
Streaming Multimedia: Yes
Messaging
SMS: Yes
EMS: Yes
MMS: Yes
Email: Yes
Chat: AOL / ICQ / Yahoo!
Predictive Text: T9
Applications
Phonebook Capacity: 500
Calendar: Yes
To-Do List: Yes
WAP: 2.0
Voice Commands: Yes
Calculator: Yes
Connectivity
Bluetooth: 1.2
Infrared Port: Yes
High-Speed Data: GPRS (Class 10) / EDGE
Wi-Fi: No
GPS: No
PC Sync: USB 2.0
