Haier P7 mobile phone

Posted by T3 Online on Fri 19 Oct 2007

It's svelte, but looks aren't everything

We'd only just reviewed Haier's last pen-style phone, the P6, when its smarter brother landed on our doorstep. This new tri-band model retains its predecessor's pen shape, albeit in a slightly longer and lighter form, but switch it on and the real changes become apparent. It's got a colour screen instead of the old greyscale design, and while that narrow widescreen shape takes a bit of getting used to, the menu is clearly laid out, so navigating isn't a problem.

There's also a built-in VGA camera, which you switch on by sliding down the pocket clip at the rear - very James Bond. But you're not likely to great results from the tiny lens or clear previews from the little screen, and although there's a 3x digital zoom and three picture-quality options, the unit doesn't come with a cable for backing up pics or contacts to your PC.

The buttons on the keypad are angled to make them easier to use (if you're right-handed) when the device is held horizontally, though it's a shame the jog-dial on the side controls volume, rather than helping you navigate. Style-wise, the phone's slender lines won't suit every occasion - it'll go much better with a tux than a tracksuit, for instance. And you'd best take care with it - we found the case prone to scuffing.

However, you do get WAP 2.0 Internet connectivity, 30 minutes of voice notes, voice commands, one-touch dialling and a calendar, and the battery is acceptable, with three hours of talk time. At 200 quid, this isn't cheap, but it's all you need to look swish at business lunches.