cell phones

Acceptable Cellphone Discovered

October 7, 2008

With the help of reader Eric Paradis, we've found another device that passes the MB portable communication device test: the Russian Incrudo Phantom.

Besides looking like a titanium-plated Trabant, the Phantom qualifies on two key tenets:

Senseless Lack of Utility: The Phantom weighs in at 230 grams. That's a 1/2 pound. May require a separate carrying case.

Exclusivity/Obscurity: Only 10 Phantoms will be made.

Ask the MB

September 4, 2007

Q: My husband would like to know where he can keep his cell phone, if the belt clip is for toolbags. (In his own words, "What do I do with my cell phone, stick it up my ass?")
—Ines

A: If he does decide to stick it up there, make sure he finishes all his calling first, and we'd also suggest setting vibrate to "off."

It might require your husband upgrading his, uh, device, but have him keep his phone in his front pocket, like we do. This is very doable with updated models like the Nokia N95, Pradaphone (pictured), and (sigh) the iphone. When seated, pull it out, set it on the table, and it becomes a conversation piece, acting essentially like a $600 coffee table book.

If he requires more of a "work phone," try the HTC Dash or the Blackberry Curve; they both slide nicely into the front pocket of even low-rise dress pants.

Whatever you do, steer away from the Treo. That antenna pokes around down there, in a bad way.

(Apologies if we haven't gotten to your question yet. There are a lot more questions than there's time to answer. We're doing the best we can.)