Flexible prepaid service, swappable "phone wrap" fashion covers, two-way SMS
capabilities, and a reasonable price are some of the highlights of the new
Motorola V2397, a prepaid phone offered by AT&T Wireless.

The V2397 measures 6.5 by 2.0 by 1.1 inches, and weighs in at 5.2 ounces.
While relatively large, the phone is lightweight, easily portable, and it sports
dual-band/dual-mode electronics.

Motorola's characteristic smart-button navigation, commonly seen on the
company's StarTAC phones, guides you through the V2397's menu options. The
keypad design is less cluttered and confusing than StarTAC phones, however--a
definite improvement. Although you still have to use the FCN (function) button to
access menu options, all control keys (Function, Store, Clear, Recall) are well
spaced. The raised, oval-shaped keypad buttons were quite responsive, and we
rarely misdialed a call. The phone felt good to hold, and we could dial
one-handed. The four-line screen (two lines of text, two lines of status icons) is
backlit and easy to read. A standard 2.5-millimeter communication jack for
hands-free devices is integrated into the phone.

The V2397's handy call management features, including scratchpad memory,
nine assignable ringer tones, one-touch speed-dial locations, multiple call timers,
and any-key answer, help you organize your communications. You can store up
to 99 numbers in the V2397's phone book, although it does not support multiple
entries per contact. Entering phone numbers is easy. Just punch in the number
and a unique descriptor, and assign it a memory location. The 30-incoming and
20-outgoing call logs help you keep track of your conversations, and the
incoming call log keeps track of missed calls to boot. The V2397 supports
carrier-dependent features such as caller ID, call waiting, voice-mail alerts, and
two-way SMS text messaging, which lets you send and receive alphanumeric
messages with other devices. Unfortunately, there is no way to tether the V2397
to a PC, so you can't use it as a digital modem, or import your computer's
address book to the phone. Also, the V2397 is missing a minibrowser, PIM
funtions, profile settings, and vibrating alert.

To keep your V2397 secure, you can use a three-digit code to lock the whole
phone or to restrict outgoing calls to one of 10 numbers stored in special
memory locations.

The V2397's NiMH battery is rated up to 100 minutes' talk time and 110 hours'
standby time. In our testing, the V2397 held a call for 105 minutes, and it lasted
for 112 hours in standby mode.

A basic phone for everyday use, the Motorola V2397 scores high marks in
visual design and reliability, although it lacks many desirable features. Still,
interchangeable phone wraps, two-way text messaging, and a very reasonable
price make the V2397 as a viable prepaid option.