Sony Ericsson TM506 Phone (T-Mobile)

With decent sound quality, HSDPA speed, Java flexibility, and robust PC connectivity, the Sony Ericsson TM506 is the best 3G phone for T-Mobile so far, and the first one we can recommend with enthusiasm.

Not only is it the first Sony Ericsson to land at T-Mobile in several years, but it’s the carrier’s first 3G cell phone since it launched its 3G network in May.

The TM506 marks the first SE handset on the T-Mobile network in years, and it supports T-Mobile’s 3G network, to boot.

On the media front, the TM506 does well with its camera and video features, but music playback is less satisfying than on other Sony Ericsson models.

The good: The Sony Ericsson TM506 has a sleek, easy-to-use design with a brilliant display.

For Sony Ericsson lovers who happen to be T-Mobile customers, there’s good reason to cheer.

Though it doesn’t offer a streaming media experience or a wireless music store, it does have a pleasant array of features and decent performance in a pleasing design.

Its functional feature set includes world 3G support, a camera, a music player, and Assisted GPS.

The basics, such as calling, organizing contacts, and accessing messaging services, are no brainers these days, and the TM506 conquers them easily.

In sum, the TM506 is a worthy entrant in the the mid-range flip phone category on the T-Mobile network.

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Users can snap photos or video clips with its 2.0-megapixel camera with My Album, slide show and video blogging capability.

I found that it blows out bright areas and has blur problems in low light, which are both common problems with camera phones.

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Music listeners can save songs and share music using the removable Memory Stick Micro.

Although it has the best voice quality of any T-Mobile 3G phone so far, the TM506 suffers from relatively low call volume—a deal breaker for some people.

You can save a photo to your contacts as well, but keep in mind that it won’t show up on the external display.

Indeed, we liked its slim profile and its glossy black skin with the amber highlights.

The TM506’s two-megapixel camera shoots photos in three sizes and two quality settings.

The bottom line: The Sony Ericsson TM506 has a couple of faults, but it’s broad 3G support and integrated GPS makes it a welcome addition to T-Mobile’s lineup.