T-Mobile Sidekick 4G Video Hands-on: Great Keyboard, Funky UI

Here at CTIA 2011, we were treated to some hands on time with the upcoming T-Mobile Sidekick 4G. This iconic messaging device continues the storied Sidekick  legacy with a very familiar look and feel but also adds the power of Android to the mix, all for $99.

Those who rocked older Sidekicks a few years back should definitely find that the new version carries the torch well. Now built by Samsung, the latest incarnation boasts access to T-Mobile’s 4G data network plus all the powerful apps that Android 2.2 offers. Running a 1GHz Coretex A8 Hummingbird CPU, the phone felt responsive to us. The Sidekick 4G features an excellent keyboard with solid, clicky feel; a sturdy spring-loaded hinge, and a revamped UI.

The demo unit we saw lacked a network connection, so we couldn’t verify download speeds.  Even so, it’s a slick handset, and heavy texters will appreciate features like group messaging. Check out our video for a closer look.