Hands-on Galaxy Experience with the Samsung Galaxy Spica i5700

We had the chance to get our hands on the Samsung Galaxy Spica for a few minutes, while it wasn’t the final device, first impressions look promising. 

The Samsung Galaxy Spica is essentially a lighter, compact version of its fellow companion, the Samsung Galaxy. This budget smartphone offers a more affordable slice of Android technology in a lighter, compact case.

The Android system is the 1.5 cupcake version. The differences between this and its predecessor are few and far between; some improvements have been made, but realistically you wont see a lot of change between this and the platform in the HTC Magic or G1. Still, I’m sure you’re as eager as I was to see what Samsungs newest recruit has to offer.

Technology-wise, it’s got everything we’ve come to expect from the Android operations. Straight away we’re granted instant access to the Android market, Chrome-Lite browser and numerous Google applications, all running at a relatively high speed. The active sync app allows you to link up your contacts, calendar and e-mails to Google. The on-board GPS system is pretty good considering this is a low-end device, localising takes all of 30 seconds and its relatively simple to use. Of course, as with most phones, you can expect the usual Bluetooth, WiFi and 3G technologies packed into the casing as well. The only disappointment so far, is regarding the firmware, updates have to be done via USB, but that’s not out of the ordinary for a medium spec phone.

The Samsung Galaxy Spica abides to the smartphone rule, providing exciting little gadgets to entertain during the most mundane moments. The entertainment options are the same for the Lite as they are with the Galaxy’s so I wont bore you with the details. In typical smartphone style, the homepage is split between three separate pages giving ample space to put all your applications and widgets in order. The touch screen is very responsive thanks to Samsungs TouchWiz technology, making it very quick and easy to whack those widgets around the three-homepage screens. The improved sensitivity is gratefully received; especially when it comes to the keyboard, the QWERTY function has suffered during the downsizing. But, turn the keyboard to landscape, and it’s usable.

The Samsung Galaxy Spica’s your typical all rounder, one minute you’ll be fighting your way through traffic busting routes (courtesy of Google maps) and the next you’ll be documenting your travels with the 3.2 mega-pixel camera and video function. The fixed focus camera’s nothing to shout about nor is it useless, but if you wanted a camera for its image capabilities you wouldn’t be looking at the Galaxy. Other useful features include the option to upgrade the external memory up to 32GB and a useful 3.5mm audio jack.

Finally, it would be criminal not to mention the Galaxy Spica’s appearance, since it’s had various new outfits. Samsungs decided to scrap the trackball tool and replace it with a rather retro track pad. The fluorescent colours have gone bar the small Android symbol on the back. The overall design is undoubtedly Samsung and will therefore appeal to many of their loyal users.

Although the Galaxy Spica is the slimmest phone on the Android market, it shouldn’t be underestimated. It is an ideal starter smartphone, but with the release date pushed back you have to wonder if the specs are good enough to hold out until 2010?