Hands-On With The Sony Ericsson TM506

We just got T-Mobile’s latest HSDPA 3G handset, the Sony Ericsson TM506 in house. It’s a surprise considering T-Mobile hasn’t had a Sony Ericsson phone in 4 years. So far, we’re totally digging it. We love the TM506′s neon green keyboard and side accents as well as the sturdy build. The keyboard, which is also available in amber, is very soft and has a brushed metal surface to it. The TM506 features a 2MP camera, stereo Bluetooth 2.0, GPS powered by Telenav, and supports Tri-Band GSM (850/1800/1900) networks as well as Dual-Band UMTS (1700/2100). Battery life is rated a t 9.5 hours for talk on GSM networks and 3.5 hours using UMTS. Standby time is rated at 250 hours. Read on for stats and a full gallery. The UI is super clean and easy to use, which is a welcome change compared to T-Mobile’s typically sluggish handsets. The unit will be available in September, and we’re told it should be under $99 with a 2-year contract. Stay tuned for a full review.