Nokia shows off 5500 "sports phone"

by Marc Perton, posted May 10th 2006 at 11:00AM

We tend to leave the cellphone behind when we're in the gym, assuming that callers would just as soon skip the conversation than listen to our heavy breathing as we struggle to actually burn some calories. But if Nokia has its way, more cellphones may find their way into health clubs. The company's new 5500 "sports phone" not only comes in a ruggedized, rubber-gripped shell, but it also features such sports-friendly features as an integrated pedometer and a database to track and monitor workout goals. The tri-mode GSM phone also includes a music player, text-to-speech engine for message-reading, and 2-megapixel camera. That camera may, however, be the phone's downfall; we've heard of some gyms banning cameraphones, and Nokia might want to consider a cam-free version to beat such restrictions.

Filed under: Handsets, Nokia, GSM

Tags: 5500, cameraphone, gsm, nokia, sports, tri-mode

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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Neutral

Donald @ May 10th 2006 1:33PM

Forget the ugly stick, that phone got shot point-blank with the ugly cannon. Yeesh.

Neutral

Kristen @ May 10th 2006 4:25PM

At the YMCA where I work, cell phones aren't even allowed in the wellness center (exercise room).

Neutral

Andrew Kaufmann @ May 10th 2006 4:58PM

Some nice features -- I like the ideas of the workout database and pedometer (will it work in your pocket?)

But my gym not only bans the use of cameraphones, but any cell phone except in designated "lounge" areas. No distractions in the workout area. Or so the rules state... I don't know how much it's enforced. I'm sure some gyms enforce it, though.

Neutral

Anthony @ May 10th 2006 7:21PM

Love the pedometer. A camera @ all it sorta stupid. I don't know why it's a requirement these days. Hopefully the SIM will be easily accessible as the phone in general is fairly ugly, but I do like the idea of a new "ruggedized" version- the last batch had a very small keypad.

Neutral

Rand @ May 11th 2006 1:59PM

Had the 5100, which was the best phone I've owned because of the ruggedness factor and the fact that it didn't skimp on features like most rugged phones do to accomodate their robustness. I wish their were more models from more manufacturers that built sport-oriented rugged phones because as the devices become more expensive and people incorporate them into all aspects of their lives, physical environment be damned, phones, smartphones, and PDA-phones, need to be able to keep up with these active lifestles and avoid the cosmetic and functional damage that marr today's devices so easily. Then again, wimpy devices are what keep the case and accessory guys in business so I won't hold out hope.

Neutral

TWhit @ Jan 21st 2008 9:30PM

An absolutely great phone, I've dunked it in water, dropped it from heights, my 9 month old son chews it like a teether and it still works as well as the day I bought it. It's not ugly in my opinion but a slick well designed phone that will out last and flip phone by years

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