Sidekick LX

T-Mobile just announced a Tony Hawk version of its Sidekick LX handset, which we reviewed back in January. The device is supposed to resemble and feel like the top of a skateboard with grip-tape and eight fake screw heads. I just hope it doesn’t feel too much like real grip-tape, since the last thing I’d want on my phone is sandpaper meant for gripping to shoes.

It’s the first Sidekick with video-recording capabilities, as well as the ability to play back and share the video. T-Mobile claims the device also has an enhanced Web-browsing experience, stereo Bluetooth support, and easier downloads.

The device is slate gray with white and sky blue accents. It features a Tony Hawk–themed interface, which includes a video of him performing tricks and will no doubt get old quite quickly, and a Tony Hawk background. Every time you swivel the screen open, it’s supposed to make “skate themed” sounds. It’s unclear if that means the device says “Dude, gnarly ollie,” or the sound of four wheels hitting pavement, or a snapping femur every time you open it.

My only question is, why does Tony Hawk look so unenthused? Read on for more photos. Read the rest of this entry »