PC World
24/04/12
If you desperately need or want 4G connectivity on your phone and live or work in an area that's effectively serviced by Telstra's 4G network, the Galaxy S II 4G's fast data speeds will certainly impress you. However, newer phones like the HTC One X and Samsung's own Galaxy Nexus have better specifications, up to date software and more attractive designs.
The Samsung Galaxy S II 4G runs the 2.3 "Gingerbread" version of Google's Android operating system. Telstra hasn't confirmed whether or not the phone will receive an upgrade to the latest Ice Cream Sandwich version. It has already started to deliver the ICS update on the original Galaxy S II, so we would expect the 4G model to eventually be updated as well.
Despite the presence of older software, we had no issues with the Galaxy S II 4G's performance. In fact, it's probably one of the best features of this phone. There is little lag or delay in general use, the home screens scroll smoothly and effectively (even when the screens are filled with widgets) and the entire user experience feels slick and efficient. Naturally, the phone is filled with widgets and shortcuts to Telstra services, but most of these can be easily removed or hidden if you wish.
Samsung's TouchWIZ UI once again includes the Music Hub, Game Hub and Social Hub suite. Music Hub — a subscription based music service that costs $9.99 per month, $54.99 for six months or $99.99 for 12 months in Australia — is a nice inclusion but the other hubs don't add much value. Good Food Guide 2012 and WhereIs Navigator are useful inclusions, though users are already well equipped when it comes to turn-by-turn navigation thanks to Navigon's Mobile Navigator app and Google Maps Navigation. Other nifty TouchWIZ functions like swiping left on a contact in your phonebook to immediately call that person, or swiping right to message them remain, as does the sluggish default lockscreen.
Unfortunately, the Samsung Galaxy S II 4G has below average battery life. If you're a heavy data user and spend lots of time in a 4G zone, the Galaxy S II 4G will struggle to last until the end of the day. We managed to stretch the battery to about 12 hours with moderate use, but if you're a heavy user you will most definitely need a power injection well before the end of the day.
The Samsung Galaxy S II 4G is available exclusively through Telstra for $5 per month on the $59 Freedom Connect Plan over 24 months. The plan includes $550 worth of calls and MMS messages, unlimited SMS message and 1.5GB of data per month. The Galaxy S II 4G is also available on a range of Telstra's business plans.
1
A mobile phone is not a mobile phone if you have to keep it plugged into power! I have had my phone for a week and a half and Telstra have had it for a week and a half (sent away to a battery test) I am completely unsatisfied with this product and the service.
2
had the phone for 3 days l have recharged it 6 times. the battery life is so short but with that the phone is so great
3
All im looking for is to find my converter on my galaxy phone.... no one can help me and im fustrated... I wand to convert miles to kilometers, lbs to kgs, etc... Please help... IMEI359137040167030
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Toni Evans
1
I have had no problems with my 4g I love it but the only thing I can't figure
is how to set photos to contacts that's all I want to know
Please help me