Nokia E61 Great Features

Having had a few problems with my E61 I became a bit disheartened with the whole thing. The main reason that I got this phone was the IMAP-Idle functionality it offered and as yet I still do not have this working to my satisfaction. However this may not be solely the handsets fault as neither Vodafone (my wireless provider) or Fusemail (my IMAP provider) seem to understand what I am trying to do, or fully support it.

This issue aside I have found a number of features which make me think that this is if not the ultimate all in one device then it is the closest thing so far. These are, in no particular order:

1) IMAP (-idle pending!), POP, Exchange, Blackberry and a number of other email standards are catered for.

Ok, so I don't have IMAP-Idle working perfectly but can still use the device to read my IMAP emails, just not on a 'push' basis.

2) GPRS, 3G and wifi support.

This is fantastic, at wireless hotspots and in my own home (or someone else's with wifi) I can save a fortune on data costs by using my / their wifi.

3) syncML support

Recently discovered ability so sync OTA (Over The Air) with my Fusemail address book and calendar as well as with iSync on my Mac.

Note: I have yet to successfully test the OTA sync but will report any problems.

4) PDA / PIM functionality (address book, contacts)

The inclusion of decent PIM applications have consigned my Axim to the bin (or ebay!), now I can manage my whole life on one device.

5) Notes

My desk and home would be covered in half written post it notes if it wasn't for this great feature. The only thing missing is the ability to index and search my notes as there are now so many of then.

6) the ability to open / edit word, excel and powerpoint documents

Although I do not personally use this I am sure and 'Enterprise' user would find this a major help.

7) the media player

Again I have as yet to use this fully but following the instructions on e-series I have managed to sync part of my iTunes library (not all as it is over 16 GB) to the memory card in my E61. It is no iPod but it all adds to the fact that this is one convergence device that seems to do lots of things and do them well, unlike previous attempts which do a bit of each thing badly.

Beyond the built in capabilities:

8) GPS

While it does not have built in GPS capability, with the addition of a bluetooth GPS the phone has the software (and the screen) for decent GPS navigation. With the addition of MG-Maps you will have full map / direction capability.

9) SSH client

With a simple download (PuTTY for Series60) I have been able to set up and manage my (Linux) home server from my E61 using SSH.

Just a couple of things which sprang to mind while I was thinking of throwing the phone out of the window after yet another failed attempt at sorting IMAP-Idle out.