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Dell Streak review redux: thoughts from the New World
If you've been following the ongoing saga of Dell's Streak, you've probably already read our review of O2 UK's version -- thing is, the British perspective can be very different from the Yankee one (we didn't see eye-to-eye during the War of 1812, for instance). To that end, we wanted to circle back now that the gargantuan Android beast is finally coming close to a US release and get another quick take. As a refresher, this thing matches or exceeds the specs you'd expect to find on any modern high-end smartphone in most respects, starting with a 1GHz Snapdragon core, a 5 megapixel camera with dual LED flash, 850 / 1900MHz 3G for use on AT&T, Rogers, Bell, and Telus, and 2GB of internal storage coupled with a bundled and pre-installed 16GB microSDHC card. Where the Streak sets itself far, far apart from the crowd, though, is with an absolutely enormous 5-inch capacitive touchscreen at 800 x 480 resolution. Needless to say, it's a polarizing feature -- and for many, it'll singlehandedly determine whether the phone is a buy or a no-buy. Our original review ultimately concluded that the Streak was a promising device in need of an update from Android 1.6 to Froyo. On second look, does our American reviewer agree? Read on.%Gallery-97797%
Apple's Steve Jobs: 'no one's going to buy' a big phone
In response to a question at its press conference today about whether Apple could've done anything to avoid its antenna issues with the iPhone 4, Steve took the opportunity to rip on bigger rivals, saying that making a phone so big "you can't get your hand around it" helps, but that "no one's going to buy that." We're assuming he's likely talking about the latest crop of 4-, 4.3- and 5-inch phones that include the Galaxy S series, the EVO 4G, Droid X, and Dell Streak, even going so far as to call them "Hummers" (we take it you don't ever drive a Hummer, Steve?). Though ripping on the competition is to be expected, perhaps the more interesting takeaway here is that we can't realistically expect an iPhone much bigger than the 3.5-inch display they use today -- presumably that'll all be reserved for iPad territory going forward. We personally don't mind something with a little more screen real estate -- but hey, maybe humans need to go through a few more cycles of evolutionary hand enlargement before Cupertino's willing to capitulate.
Dell Streak very likely coming to AT&T any day now
You may have heard chatter recently that Dell's Streak is destined for AT&T as soon as July 19 -- and now, with a little dot-connecting, we're pretty much on board with that theory. We've just been tipped that on a corporate-owned AT&T store where contractors are in the process of installing new kiosks in the "Smartphones" area of the floor under tight security; they've apparently been made to sign NDAs and a number of employees "are already on the chopping block" for trying to figure out what it is. We suppose it could be something Captivate-related, but considering the level of security here, we think it's something much bigger. Like 5 inches or so, if you catch our drift.
Dell Streak's car dock gets a video unboxing, early road test
Given the size of Dell's Streak (it's rocking a 5-inch screen, in case you were wondering), you've probably considered using it as a dedicated routing machine with Google Maps Navigation at the helm. The only problem? Using your arm as the window mount. We heard a few weeks ago that the Streak's official car dock was finally on sale over in the UK, and it looks as if the bugger is finally shipping there, too. The best news? It seems to hold up pretty well to some of Britain's bumpiest roadways -- see for yourself after the break.
Dell Streak's supposed US packaging is gorgeous, unboxed with elegance
Well, the Brits ain't gonna be happy when they see this in the AM. What we're looking at here is presumably the Dell Streak's final US packaging -- a far cry from the cardboard boxes that the Englishmen are given (and let's not forget the silly photoshop error on the top). If the features list is correct, this five-inch Android phone is definitely headed to AT&T's 850MHz 3G band for now (hang in there, T-Mobile fans). Other than that, the accessories and the phone itself look identical to what we've got in London, but we totally wouldn't mind getting hold of this sexy acrylic box -- it'd make a pretty cool cradle, don't you think? Head over to the source link to feed your eyes. Update: Here's another found on eBay. [Thanks, Johnny S.]
Dell Streak now available unlocked for £449
Not a fan of being tied down to a single network? Neither are we, so let's all hold hands and rejoice at the news that Dell's 5-inch Streak has today become available to purchase unlocked over in the UK. Freedom lovers will have to pay a hefty £50 extra for being unshackled from O2's chains, but the £449 ($676) price point remains significantly lower than the 16GB iPhone 4 and should prove mighty tempting. Then again, if you wait until next month, you might be able to import one from the good old US of A, where Dell will be selling the unlocked Streak at a thrifty $500. It all depends on what you have more of, money or patience. [Thanks, Manuel B.]
Dell Streak gets cozy with Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, suddenly looks small (video)
Look what we have here? The Dell Streak sure keeps bringing us more and more surprises -- unlike most Android devices that lack the Bluetooth HID profile, here it is paired up with our wireless keyboard and mouse (Apple's Wireless Keyboard and Magic Mouse, specifically) without any driver hacks. Streak Smart, who made this discovery, had the same experience as us with its iGo Stowaway keyboard and an unknown mouse -- typing was as smooth as cutting butter with a hot knife, but the mouse couldn't do much due to the lack of pointer and scrolling support. If you insist, the forthcoming Nokia N8 is confirmed to support both devices natively, but it shouldn't be long before we see a mouse hack for the green bot. Hands-on video after the break, and do also head over to the source link if you need more convincing. P.S. -- Since commenter dudeville was asking, here's how to pair the Apple keyboard with the Streak: type a four-digit PIN on the phone when prompted, then type the same number on the keyboard and press the enter key. Good luck!
3G video call on Fring for Android: bringing HTC EVO 4G and Dell Streak together (hands-on)
Consider this: you may have an Android phone with a front-facing camera, and so do your distant loved ones (yes, friends count too). Now slap that free IM app Fring onto your phone, and the once-dormant chat camera shall finally come to life -- right now only the Streak and EVO 4G are supported, whereas the others (like the X10) will have to rely on their main cameras. Still, Fring also supports dual-camera Symbian devices plus Skype video calls to and from computers, and since it isn't locked down to any particular connection method, users with unlimited data allowance get to make free 3G video calls! Take that, FaceTime. Read on to watch our very own transatlantic banter.
Dell Streak car and AV docks now on sale, HDMI may or may not be included (update: included)
Hey England, in need of some retail therapy after an unsatisfying sporting weekend? Dell's got the goods for you with a rich new selection of cables, plugs, adapters, and cases for your new Streak. It looks like the HDMI dock we've been jonesing for has probably become a retail reality, but there's no way to be sure right now -- Dell's only listing an AV dock without going into the TV connectivity options. The fresh offerings also include the kickstand-equipped wallet case that we found intriguing, spare battery and sync cables, and an international travel kit. Of course, every silver lining has a cloud, which in this case is the pricing: nothing here costs less than £24 ($35) and the car- and TV-enabling docks will set you back a cool £55 ($80) each. Jumbo smartphone, jumbo accessory prices. [Thanks, Kingsley] Update: Dell's updated catalog now reflects HDMI connectivity on the AV dock. Phew!
Dell Streak gets rooted, now accepting superusers
Yes, we're still waiting on the official release of the Dell Streak over here in the colonies, but abroad it's already available, and MoDaCo's Paul O'Brien has taken his to the root. He's figured out how to make the Streak a more willing partner for your su exploits, and has kindly shared the details. The application process looks easy, just a few steps, and from what we can tell looks to be fully functional, with only the remount command requiring some extra finesse to get working. You can find the full details at the source link and have yours rooted in time for tea. [Thanks, Rado]
Dell Streak review
Streak. It needs no introduction, as this slate's been gaining a lot of attention amongst gadget lovers around the world. Thanks to the UK launch last Friday, we were one of the first on this planet to procure Dell's finalized Android 1.6 phone from O2. Yep, you heard right -- Engadget's now in possession of two Streaks, with the older one still in its original and somewhat unstable prototype state. Our new toy sports a matte "carbon" finish instead of chrome (no word on future availability; the red version's coming in two weeks' time), and now 399MB of RAM instead of 405MB (according to Android System Info app; it's actually a 512MB chip). Anyhow, now that we have the real deal, there's plenty to go through, so join us after the break to see if the Streak's really going to start a new trend.%Gallery-94418%
Dell Streak HDMI dock gets the hands-on treatment, kickstand-equipped case makes a cameo
We managed to get an early look at the HDMI dock for the Dell Streak way back in February courtesy of T3's Greek site, but the accessory is now finally official (if not widely available), and Laptop Magazine has come through with what appears to be the first proper hands-on. Of course, there's not exactly a lot to go hands-on with, but it seems that dock does indeed function as a dock, and it also thankfully has a USB port and a line-out in addition to that HDMI port. Perhaps just as notable, however, is a Streak case that Laptop has also managed to get its hands on, which has a built-in kickstand. Check it out after the break.
Dell Streak 16GB in stock on O2 UK website
Mesmerized by that 5-inch display? Looking to get in on the action for yourself? If you're in the UK, take note: the Dell Streak is listed as "in stock," with prices starting at free on contract. [Thanks, Luke]
Dell Streak: $500 unlocked in US, available next month
We've just learned at D8 today that Dell will be offering the Streak to US customers direct from its website -- unlocked -- starting next month for $500. That's later than the June 4 date that UK customers will be enjoying, but it's earlier than it could've been -- Dell had merely been giving "later this Summer" guidance previously. More on this as it develops!
Dell Streak free on contract in UK, assuming £25 monthly plan
You know that Dell Streak tabletphone that's got us all hot and bothered these days? Yeah, well, what with all the stabbing, we totally didn't notice that the device has already been priced in the UK. When it launches on June 4th at The Carphone Warehouse, the Streak will cost you a sizable £429 off-contract -- the same Apple wants for an iPad 16GB -- but not a penny if you opt for its data plans (carried by O2). With a £25 mobile broadband contract or a £35 voice and unlimited data contract, the five-inch WVGA slate will be yours to take home free -- the same as Carphone's iPhone 3G pricing. We don't know quite yet if O2 UK's official tariffs will be cheaper or more expensive, but the tree doesn't grow too far from the apple, as they say.
Dell Streak shows what the Engadget app can do with a 5-inch screen (video)
You asked and we listened. Having given you a quick glimpse of both the Dell Streak and our own Android app way back in the sixth episode of The Engadget Show, we've now put the two together for a more in-depth look. Comparing the 5-inch Streak with the 3.2-inch Hero and 3.7-inch Desire might not seem like a fair fight, but it really illustrates the difference in real estate. Whereas HTC's phones let you see the top story bar and the first couple of latest posts, the Streak gives you a good quintet of headlines to look at before having to perform any actions. And scrolling while reading a post? You can (almost) forget about that anachronism as well. It really is an impressive piece of kit, this supposed non-smartphone from Dell. See it in moving pictures after the break.
Dell Streak's Gorilla Glass screen: torture tested for your amusement (video)
So we've been hearing rumors about the Dell Streak being some kind of a rugged bad boy. Word is, the Gorilla Glass display on this 5-inch slate is good enough to withstand pretty much anything a human would care to throw its way. Them's fighting words where we come from, so we did the only thing a responsible tech blog can do -- we put them to the test. Should you be brave enough to follow us after the break, you'll come upon our best efforts to destroy our own Streak prototype, albeit with little success. Then again, the end result might be less important than the journey there, which is not to be missed.
Dell Streak official: exclusive to O2 UK (update: launches on June 4)
Let's all feign surprise now, as Dell has just gone official with its worst kept, though perhaps sexiest, secret ever. The former Mini 5 has been christened the Streak and is launching at the beginning of next month. The UK will be getting the first bite at this cherry, with the rest of Europe following soon thereafter and the US a disappointingly distant third with a launch "later this summer." If you've been living under a (Round) Rock, this is Dell's big foray into the smartphone market: a 5-inch supersized Android handset, housing a 1GHz Snapdragon, a 5 megapixel cam, 2GB of built-in memory (expandable via MicroSD) and a customized UI. Curiously, Dell's opting to market the Streak as "the ultimate portable tablet pc" and would prefer that this device, albeit fully equipped to carry out cellular calls like a phone, not be called a smartphone. We got a chance to play with it during a briefing in London recently, and frankly, aside from the snazzier paintjob, there's nothing new to report. Just like the prototype unit we've previewed to exhaustion, the device on hand was running Android 1.6 and Dell's skinning team hadn't yet laid on the goodies that we've been promised. The battery is the same 1,530mAh cell as before, and we even managed to get the browser to crash in the exact same fashion that our own Streak exhibits on occasion. Now that's consistency. We're not being told the specific Android version that the Streak will ship with, but a couple of flavors are being mulled over right now. Till we get more info, we suggest sitting back, relaxing, and perusing the gallery below for the roaring red number that's currently on show. It won't be available at launch -- you can have any color so long as it's black -- but "a range of colors and designs" will swiftly follow to sate any aesthetic concerns. Video and full press release after the break. Update: The Carphone Warehouse listing for the Streak shows Android 1.6 as the OS with an "OTA upgrade available soon." Pair that with word direct from Dell that Android 2.2 and Flash 10.1 are coming "later this year," and you can connect your own dots [Thanks, Azza]. Update 2: O2's website now has a precise date for us: June 4.%Gallery-93604%%Gallery-93632%
Quartet of Dell Streaks spotted in the wild in Seattle, testing for AT&T
Image credit: Seattle Times It's not often you see four unreleased gadgets rather unceremoniously attached to a plank of wood on the sidewalk, but that's exactly what Seattle Times blogger Brier Dudley spotted: four Dell Streaks all in a row. AT&T network technicians were apparently verifying performance of the devices on the company's 3G network and also ensuring their ability to send accurate e-911 information. Among the four was a bright crimson model, but sadly the pink and orange versions we're holding out for were not present on this particular piece of timber. We should be just a few weeks away from the Streak going fully public, at which point you can hopefully find something a little more suitable to which to attach yours. [Thanks, Kris Hill]
Dell CEO: Streak coming next month to Telefonica O2, 'later this summer' to AT&T
You know who can't stop talking about (or showing off) the Dell Streak / Mini 5? Company CEO Michael Dell, that's who. The man once again returned with his Android-powered 5-inch display of choice, showing it off on stage at the Citrix Synergy conference this morning. Sure, we've seen the handset ad nauseum at this point -- we're even a proud owner of one prototype -- but here's the quote that piqued our interest: "this [phone] will be available starting next month, first with our partner 02 Telefonica [sic] in Europe, then later this summer with our pretty good partner here in the United States, AT&T." He couldn't be much more direct, and we couldn't get it from a more knowing source. Excited for the near future yet?
