Huawei Ascend for Cricket

So, this is my first Smartphone. I've sort of had smarphones in the past, but this one is totally new to me. It runs off of the Android network so I'm new to all of this. So far I really love this phone! Please forgive me if I say something wrong. I'm a technology girl, but sometimes, I'm not right about everything. I go off of what websites say and all that about it's specifications. Also, I have only had this phone for 1 day and this is sort of my first reaction and opinion so far.

The Huawei Ascend is one of Cricket Wireless' new phones. It runs on Android 2.1 operating system which is important to keep in mind if you would like to run certain apps that may require newer versions. The phone features a 3.2MP camera/camcorder that is a big step up for me from my last phone. This phone is a little big, but not so big it is in the way. It features a 3.5" touchscreen that is sensitive to the touch. I haven't run into any problems yet with it not wanting to do what I ask. I have found this phone to be PACKED with features. I've yet to figure everything out! It is easy to use once you get the hang of it. Apps are quick to respond but it depends on your connection. I've had no problem with anything loading up slow, etc. Cricket's network seems to be perfect for myself.

Now for the cons of this phone. I will say there is not many so far. The phone does not come with a "full-size" (I guess you could call it that) User Manual. It does come with one, but it just shows you a few of the basic functions. Another problem I have encountered was with one of my games. I tried to play it but it was very laggy it seemed, so I did not bother with it anymore and deleted it. I wouldn't say this phone is for games, but it's more for social networking and things of that sort. All other apps I have installed run perfectly without problem. The battery life seems to be decent. With half a battery I was able to browse the internet, text, talk, run apps, etc. for about an hour and a half. I haven't tried it on a fully battery yet but Cricket's website says it will run up to 210 minutes talk time and 300 hours on standby. Keep in mind you need to close all apps when done using to get the fullest out of your phone. Do not let the process continue to run if not in use. This phone also comes with Wi-Fi and is on the 3G network.

At first, I was confused about which phone to get. The Huawei Ascend or the Sanyo ZIO that Cricket offers. I chose the Huawei Ascend for the following reasons: The Operating system is much newer than the one on the Sanyo ZIO. That makes a big difference with some apps you'd like to use. Also the price. The Huawei Ascend is much cheaper at $149.99 than the Sanyo ZIO at $249.99. At the moment they are both on sale for $129.99 in my area but with the Sanyo ZIO you will pay more up front then get a mail in rebate which can take weeks. The Huawei Ascend is VERY nice for the price, so I do not know how the ZIO can top it unless it's made of epic win. And by the specifications they both contain some of the same materials. For me, the price for the ZIO with an old operating system is a total turn-off, but it's really a matter of opinion and whatever you prefer!

Here are a few tips or things to help you out with your phone. The user manual didn't tell me this, so I had to figure things out on my own.

To end an application that is running do the following: Menu->Settings->Applications->Running Services-> then end whatever applications you do not want running.

Want to lock your phone with a lock pattern? Go to menu->Settings-> Location and Security-> Under the screen unlock pattern make sure Require Pattern is checked (If not, just touch the check box) and go to Change lock pattern. It will guide you how to do it. When you want to unlock your phone, hit the Menu key then do your pattern to unlock!

There are also MANY free apps for your phone. If you are into changing your ringtone or wallpaper a lot, please use one of the free apps that give you great wallpapers for free. A great one I use is the Zedge application. It's free just find it in the Android Market on your phone!

If you have any questions, feel free to ask! I will be honest and say I may not know the answer to the questions, but I will try my best!

If you'd like to read more about this phone or purchase, here is the website to do so.  Also, please read this web site before asking general questions.

http://www.mycricket.com/cell-phones/details/huawei-ascend-m860