Pocket PC Thoughts: O2 XDA Atom Reviewed

The Atom Up Close
One thing you'll notice right away is how shiny this device is. Not just because it's so new; the black finish of the hard plastic chassis is very smooth and glossy. Of course, the finish shows every fingerprint you'll ever place on the device - so if you're any bit obsessive compulsive, you'll rub the Atom on your shirt every 30 seconds to get it glossy and clean again. No case or holster is included, so if you want to keep that look, you'll be back online searching for protection in no time.


Figure 3: It's a slick-looking device, as long as you maintain it (screen protector applied).

The screen is 2.7" diagonal, just a bit smaller than the Magician, Prophet and Wizard at 2.8". I had to trim some old screen protectors to make it fit well on the Atom before I continued to play with it (yes, I'm that protective).

There are four buttons on the front for Send/End, the Start Menu, and O2 Media Plus, along with the 5-way directional control next to some tiny but loud stereo speakers. Note that the O2 Media Plus button is the only one of these hardware buttons that are configurable in the Buttons applet.


Figure 4: The Camera and Voice Speed Dial buttons sit next to the infrared (IrDA) port on the right side of the Atom.


Figure 5: The Volume Up and Volume Down buttons sit high on the left side.


Figure 6: From left to right - the stylus, Power button, mini-SD slot, and the lanyard eyelet.


Figure 7: From left to right - the reset hole, mini-USB port, 2.5mm wired headset jack, and the microphone hole.


Figure 8: People have complained about the battery cover sliding off their Atoms, but I did't seem to have that issue.