Overview

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 is a Phone that Blends Ergonomics and Technology

Overview of Samsung S8600 Wave 3

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 runs on version 2.0 of Bada operating system and has the capability to link to other devices through Wi-Fi, version 2.0 of microUSB and version 3.0 of Bluetooth with A2DP. In terms of storage space, the S8600 Wave 3 provides 3 GB of internal memory and it accommodates up to 32 GB of a microSD, enough space for one to carry music and other multimedia files around. Speaking of multimedia, this phone makes use of a digital natural sound engine (DNSe) technology to ensure that everything about the phone is music to its owner’s ears. That means that the sound output from the phone’s media players will be registered through the DNSe or through earphones attached to the provided 3.5 mm jack. Given its numerous features, it is logical that the phone should have a strong battery to ensure that it runs as unabatedly as the user wants. The phone’s 1500 mAh Li-Ion battery doesn’t promise anything less. This battery has stand-by time of up to 480 hours and talk time of up to 8 hours and 30 minutes. The Samsung S8600 Wave 3 is only available in black.

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 Design and Build Quality

Built on a four inch capacitive touchscreen, the candy bar style Samsung Wave is the third edition to the series. A large Home button sits under the screen with dial and end keys to the left and right side. The chassis is thick with a metal unibody casing. The build quality feels solid and premium. In order to get to the battery, microSD card slot, or SIM card slot, you will need to press a hinge lock and slide the device upwards.

User Interface and Comfort to Use Samsung S8600 Wave 3

Samsung puts its trademark TouchWiz user interface to give the device a simple and easy to navigate experience. Bada 2.0 is the operating system behind it all. This new version gives the system the ability to support Near Field Communication, though Samsung has left this feature absent. The icons look sharper and clearer than before.

Messaging and Emails

Text messages will show up in threaded view to fell like an instant messaging chat experience. Multimedia messages are easy to receive and send on the Wave 3. Email access is also available, easily connecting you to all your personal and work emails.

Gallery, Photo Viewer and Video Player

The video player is capable of playback back MP4, MKV, H.263, H.264, WMV, XviD, and DivX files. This means you will be able to play virtually any video out there.

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 Music Player and FM Radio

A generous 3GB of internal storage and microUSB support will allow you to store plenty of music. Samsung has Music Hub which is an online store that you can buy tracks right onto the device. The separate music player does a decent job of managing playlists and single tracks. MP3, WAV, WMA, eAAC+, and Flac files are all supported. With DLNA support, you can share tracks from the Wave 3 to another device. In addition, tracks can be downloaded via the DLNA. Controls when you are playing music will show up on the lock screen for easy access. An FM radio will scan when you plug in a headset and able you to record stations. Overall, the audio quality is very good via the loudspeaker or headphones.

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 Camera and Image Quality

A 5MP megapixel camera with LED flash will deliver good quality shots.

Video Camera and Video Quality

The video camera will shoot at 30 frames per second with 720p quality. The Wave 3 has trouble with light.

Samsung S8600 Wave 3 Connectivity Options

The Wave 3 can connect to a 2G GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz. 3G HSDPA is supported at 900 and 2100 MHz bands. With 3.0 Bluetooth and 2.0 microUSB support, you have plenty of options to transfer files to other devices.

Web Browser and Applications

The web browser has some trouble supporting Flash which is disappointing.

Google Maps and GPS

Samsung puts its own map application on the Wave 3 and also adds Google Maps. Between the two, you will prefer the ease of Google Maps.

Value for Money and Verdict

The Wave 3 can be purchased for Rs. 15900 (approx., may vary). The screen, sound, and DLNA support are where Samsung was successful with the Wave 3. Even given the lacking Samsung navigation, Flash, and lower battery life, the Wave 3 remains a solid buy.