A few months back we did a review of the Intermec CN3 handheld computer. It was a great package as far as functionality and durability, but showed its industrial origins in the areas of usability and size.

This issue I take a look at the other side of the coin. The AT&T Tilt is one of the latest of a new generation of consumer-grade handheld computers. It’s small, it’s sleek, it does everything, and it’s all wrapped up in a shiny ergonomic package that’s sure to please.

The basics:

The Tilt is a GSM phone and a Windows Mobile 6 pocket PC with an internal GPS receiver, and a 3.0 Mega-pixel camera. With all this, it still comes in a fairly compact package, measuring 4.4” x 2.3” x 0.7”. While hardly wafer-thin, it packs a huge amount of functionality into its just over 6 ounce package.

The specs are:

Processor: 400Mhz

Memory: 256MB Flash, 128MB RAM

Phone: GSM

Data: GPRS/EDGE, HSDPA, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

GPS: Sirf III full GPS

Camera: 3MP

Expansion slot: MicroSD, SDHC compatible.

Battery: 1350 Milliamp-hours

What’s in the box?:

The Tilt comes with an extra stylus, an AC adapter, a mini-USB cable, a quick start guide and a CD. The CD  contains the Sync software as well as the phone and its battery.

This being a high-end product, I would have enjoyed some headphone or at least a wired phone earpiece and some form of carrying case along with it. As it is, you get the bare essentials, and will need to invest in a few accessories if you really want to get the most out of the Tilt.

The unit examined:

The Tilt shows excellent build quality. There is no movement in the case; the steel and plastic construction seems sturdy and feels substantial. The back of the unit is made of a high-friction rubberized plastic that makes it easy to grip while the front has a brushed steel look and the sides are black plastic. Overall the the Tilt is pleasing to both the hand and eye; it’s easy to grip, and has the striking look of steel.