14 DAY TRIAL // The affordable version of T-mobile's hiptop, the Sidekick ID has now become available, officially, through the US mobile operator. The user can customize the exterior of the Sidekick ID according to preferences, due to its changeable colorful faceplates, and always have access to email, instant messaging (through three major messaging clients, Yahoo!, AIM and Windows Live Messenger) and text messaging.
The QWERTY keyboard it includes will, of course, make things a lot easier and overall the device is a pretty good choice for users that know they'll want to send messages very often.
One-handed navigation is also a lot more convenient due to the trackball it is equipped with. Other more basic features include speakerphone, phone book, conference calling for talking to two people at the same time, support for downloading new games, ringtones and wallpapers and a 1.4 inch 65k color screen with a 240 x 160 pixel resolution.
The device will mainly be useful for messaging, but it can also be rather fun and serve as an accessory, as it comes in several color varieties including black, yellow, blue, white, purple and glow-in-the-dark.
Measuring 5.1 x 2.5 x 0.9 inches and weighing 6.2 ounces, the Sidekick ID will last for up to 5 hours of talk time or 6 days on standby. While not as advanced as its older brother, the Sidekick 3, and having lost the MP3 player, digital camera as well as Bluetooth, this handset has also become more affordable, sporting a price tag of only $99 after contract, rebates and discounts.