Design
 

Click the image to get a closer look at the i860's features.

The i860 is no ordinary clamshell. Like other Nextel phones, it's built tough for construction and utilities industry users. The phone sports a very large 176 x 220 TFT color display with a stunning 262,000 colors. Meanwhile, the outside cover features a supplementary 95 x 96 color display that can display photos, images, time, call information, battery and signal strength, and more. The built-in camera and LED flash are located above this display. The speakerphone unit is located on the rear of the phone, while the trademark Direct Connect and menu scrolling functions can be controlled from the side of the phone. The phone's control pad also features a five-way button that can control most of the phone's functions. Finally, a small button on the hinge of the phone's flip mechanism automatically opens the phone for quick access-- a real plus if you have your hands full.

Calling Features
The i860's built-in address book can store up to 600 contacts for quick and easy management of phone numbers and email addresses. The phone comes with built-in polyphonic ringtones plus a vibrating alert. More polyphonic ringtones can be added, as can MP3-based ringtones. Voice activated dialing makes calling your friends, family and associates as easy as saying their names. You can also speak numbers and control other phone features with the sound of your voice. Access the last 20 sent and received calls for quick call return or number storage via the recent calls list. A built-in speakerphone makes it easy to talk without having the phone to your ear and the i860's GPS location technology pinpoints your exact location when you dial 911.

One of the key features of any Nextel phone is support for Nextel's Direct Connect walkie-talkie technology. The i860 fully supports the service, which allows for one-touch conversations with anyone else on a Nextel phone. It's like a having a CB radio with enough range to cover all of North America. The i860 also features a walkie-talkie private speaker button. This switches from the external speaker to the earpiece for private conversations or to minimize disruptions in quiet environments.

Messaging, Internet and Tools
The i860 features MMS-based support for mobile-to-mobile or mobile-to-email text and photo messaging. When used in combination with the phone's built-in camera, MMS opens up a whole new world of messaging fun. T9 text entry, which is a technology that makes it easier for people to enter words and text on handsets, is built into the unit-- a plus for mobile email and text messaging users.

Getting on the Internet anywhere is easy with the i860, as well. Nextel's optional Nextel Online package allows you to read and send e-mails, exchange instant messages and view your favorite web content on your phone. Nextel Online also features games, ringtones, realtime news and sports updates, virtual address books, and more-- all delivered to your Nextel phone.

Another Nextel innovation supported by the i860 is Nextel Direct Send. Simply push a button and instantly send all your contact info to another Nextel phone. It's an easy way to get people into your contact list fast.

The i860 ships with a calendar and a calculator, as well as a voice recording application that can record phone conversations if you need to replay directions or meeting times. A time and date clock are also included.

Imaging and Entertainment
The i860's 640 x 480 camera features a digital zoom and built-in flash that makes it easier to get quality shots in low-light situations. The i860 can also capture 10-second video clips. The phone's Media Center application and large internal memory allows you to store hundreds of photos in a variety of file types.

The i860 is packed with a number of Java applications. TeleNav for audible driving directions is included, as is 1KTV multimedia for news (both require a subscription). Preloaded games include ESPN Bassmaster Demo, Space Invaders Demo and Boulder Dash M.E. Demo. More game downloads are available via the Nextel Online service.

Vital Statistics
The Motorola i860 weighs 4.76 ounces and measures 3.45 x 1.85 x 0.98 inches. Its lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 165 minutes of digital talk time, and up to 65 hours of digital standby time. It runs on the IDEN 800 frequency. The phone comes with a one year limited warranty.