Philips updates its flagship Xenium phone

Philips Consumer Communications has announced the newest model in its line of Xenium cellular phones. Available globally later this year, the Xenium 989 boasts its new user interface concept, voice-dialling and voice-command, T9 predictive text functionality, a large graphic LCD display, a built-in modem, battery life up to 25 days (600 hours) in standby and talk time of up to six hours.

Weighing in at a mere 95 grams, Ian Shore, PCC business unit manager, believes the new phone will raise the standards expected by mobile professionals. "Like all new Philips phones launched at Cellexpo last month, the Xenium 989 is a dual-band phone, extending its reach in terms of global roaming and when the 1800 frequency becomes operational with SA networks

A distinctive feature of Philips` Xenium 989 GSM phone is the new user interface, which simplifies operation by offering intuitive access to the many advanced features. Based on a `carousel of icons`, this new interface works by displaying simultaneously up to five self-explanatory icons that visually represent a function or feature of the phone - giving instant access to menus for the various functions.

Another key feature is the application of voice operation technology - invented by Philips over five years ago and extended to offer a voice command capability to complement the existing voice-dialling feature. "This functionality allows voice access to key features on the phone`s menu and enables calls to be made to any number stored in memory simply by speaking the name of the person to be dialled," notes Shore.

"This not only speeds up and simplifies operation, it also enhances safety during in-car use of the mobile phone. Both a voice car kit and an active headset are available to further maximise driving safety and comfort - which is particularly useful in light of the news laws governing the use of cell phones while driving.

Interestingly, the entire new range of Philips GSM phones has benefited from the company`s acknowledged expertise in hearing-aid technology. Other useful features of Xenium 989 include a voice-activated calculator, an on-board game, 19 selectable ringers with an editor to create personalised melodies, and a 20 second Voice Memo function that allows convenient storage of spoken notes and reminders. A personal organiser allows convenient planning of meetings and schedules, and call time and cost meters display the duration or cost of calls. Time and date are displayed on an animated clock which is constantly active, when the phone is in idle mode.