August 6, 2008 update: I noticed that many visitors would like access to some of the programs I mention in this review, so I added links to them. Enjoy!

February 18, 2009 update: Click here for an article on the best software to get for a Windows Mobile device!

I've generally been content with the don't pay anything free phones that come with the service agreements, but as of late I've been wanting to consolidate my PDA with my phone. Simply carrying around all these electronic devices is no fun. Besides, I have the perfect excuse: my old PDA was dying. Think about it. An MP3 player, PDA functionality, a simple camera, and a phone device all in one! It doesn't get much better than than that. Now instead of lugging a backpack around full of all my toys and gadgets, I can simply strap the i760 to my hip.

Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional is amazing for total control. However, depending upon what software you run, its speed and stability can suffer.

In the end, I myself chose the Samsung SCH-i760 for the following reasons:

• Back-lit QWERTY keyboard, keypad, and D-Pad for excellent input options. The layout doesn't seem very aesthetically pleasing, but it is perfect for right handed people who prefer keyboard shortcuts as opposed to mouse or touch control. Addendum: The slide keyboard is very solid--this phone is built to last.
• Camera works very well for a cellphone, and because I always have it with me, I take a lot more pictures now.
• Remote Desktop! I know it sounds silly, but it works very well and depending upon your career, it can really save you in a bind (I've already used it)
• Opera browser for mobile devices is one of the best I have ever seen. It beats Safari on the iPhone, that's for sure.
• I can customize it EXACTLY the way I want. I have an iPhone style slide to unlock system, finger-flicking scroll, and coreplayer that supports more formats than the iPhone video player ever will. BeyondPod is a free RSS and Podcast aggregator that has been simply amazing for me.
• Wi-fi and Bluetooth included for maximum connectivity.

Keep in mind that I got this for $200 (and yes, well before today's announcement of the iPhone's $200 version) -- EVDO runs great! Last but not least, I can route Internet through my phone to my laptop for to access only the things my laptop can get to.

Of course there are limitations and downsides. It doesn't look as cool as the iPhone, and the interface can be a bit sluggish without some tweaking. In the end, if you are like me, then the important factors lie in functionality, customization, and usability. On these fronts, the i760 is the phone of choice!