Samsung i8510 INNOV8

The integration of a digital camera with a mobile handset is obviously not a new concept but we’ve been stuck with 5 megapixel cameras for quite a while now, so I think it’s about time the tech ante was upped a bit. LG and Samsung are running neck and neck with their 8MP camera phones, but Samsung managed to get to us first with their i8510 INNOV8, and here’s what I have to say.

Form Factor
There’s no denying the INNOV8 is a good-looking handset, with its large 2.8 inch (240 x 320) TFT display and optical joystick that also works well as a fifth key in the nav-pad. There are some strategically located shortcut keys for all purposes. On one side is a slider switch that allows you to swap between video mode, normal camera, and the gallery. The microSD card slot (in addition to the 16GB of onboard space) is located just below that, followed by a dedicated camera key.

The volume/zoom keys, 3.5mm earphone socket, and microUSB port for the charger and USB cable are located on the other side. The auto kick slider is extremely smooth and very responsive. The keypad is large and easy to use – ALL keys, including the top row. Flipping over to the camera, the rear of the handset looks like a compact digicam more than a cell phone. What’s disappointing is that the INNOV8 is equipped with an LED flash instead of Xenon.

Features and Performance
Interface and Navigation
The INNOV8 is yet another instance of Samsung adopting the more popular Symbian Operating System (v9.3) and a Series 60 (rel. 3.2) UI. This will make a switch from Nokia a piece of cake. Although the icons are similar, there are subtle variation. Still, everything will have a familiar look and feel.

Navigation with the optical joystick is convenient. Its sensitivity can be adjusted to your preference. It can also be shut off if you prefer the conventional five-way nav-pad as is. One odd thing about the handset is that if you cut a call it will still show up as a missed call